Name: Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons whole milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; ¾ cup maple syrup (divided); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large egg yolks; 1 cup toasted chopped walnuts

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If you’re looking for a creamy, dreamy dessert that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, look no further than this Maple Walnut Ice Cream. This homemade treat combines the rich, earthy sweetness of maple syrup with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, all wrapped up in a luscious ice cream base. Perfect for warm evenings or as a sweet finish to a dinner party, this recipe is bound to impress!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Maple Walnut Ice Cream recipe is not just another frozen dessert; it’s an experience. The use of high-quality ingredients like real maple syrup and fresh walnuts elevates this ice cream far beyond the average scoop. It’s easy to make at home, requiring a few simple steps that yield a luxurious result. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about creating your own ice cream from scratch. You can customize the sweetness, adjust the flavor, and, best of all, enjoy it fresh from the churn.

Ingredients at a Glance

To whip up this delightful homemade ice cream, you will need:

1 cup + 2 tablespoons whole milk
1 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
¾ cup maple syrup, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg yolks
1 cup toasted chopped walnuts (see notes below)

Equipment at a Glance

Before you get started, gather these kitchen essentials:

Ice cream maker – Essential for achieving that creamy texture.
Medium saucepan – Used for heating the milk and cream mixture.
Whisk – For mixing ingredients smoothly.
Mixing bowls – To combine your egg yolks and maple syrup.
Spatula – Helps in scraping down the sides of the bowl and mixing well.

The Method for Maple Walnut Ice Cream

Creating your own Maple Walnut Ice Cream is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Walnut Topping

Start by toasting the walnuts. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped walnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool.

Step 2: Heat the Dairy

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scalding.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Yolks and Maple Syrup

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and ½ cup of maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale. This will help create a rich and creamy texture for your ice cream.

Step 4: Temper the Egg Mixture

To prevent the eggs from scrambling, gradually add a ladle of the hot milk and cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This process is known as tempering. Once combined, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.

Step 5: Cook the Custard

Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Be patient and don’t rush this step!

Step 6: Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the remaining ¼ cup of maple syrup and the vanilla extract. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Step 7: Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a clean bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly against the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely chilled.

Step 8: Churn the Ice Cream

Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Step 9: Add the Walnuts

In the last few minutes of churning, fold in the toasted walnuts for that delightful crunch.

Step 10: Freeze the Ice Cream

Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking to customize or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these swaps:

For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.
Use a different sweetener like agave nectar or honey in place of maple syrup, but be aware that it will change the flavor profile.
Chopped pecans can replace walnuts for those who prefer a different nutty flavor.
If you want a richer flavor, you may use brown sugar instead of maple syrup, although the overall taste will be different.

Cook’s Notes

Make sure to toast the walnuts just before adding them to ensure they are crunchy and flavorful.
Always allow the ice cream base to chill completely; this step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
For a more intense maple flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup to the mixture.
Feel free to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your Maple Walnut Ice Cream.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

This homemade Maple Walnut Ice Cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To soften it for serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. If the ice cream becomes too hard, you can place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to make scooping easier.

Quick Questions

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes! You can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Is it necessary to toast the walnuts?

While not mandatory, toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your ice cream.

How can I enhance the maple flavor?

For a more pronounced maple flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or using pure maple extract in addition to the syrup.

Can I add mix-ins or other flavors to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or even a touch of cinnamon for variation.

Explore More

Sally’s Baking Addiction for more dessert inspiration.
Pinch of Yum for delicious meal ideas.
Minimalist Baker for simple and quick recipes.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Maple Walnut Ice Cream recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Homemade ice cream is always a hit, and this recipe is sure to wow everyone who tries it. You can save this to your favorite recipes or share it on social media to spread the joy of homemade ice cream. Enjoy every creamy bite, and make sure to savor the deliciousness that is Maple Walnut Ice Cream!