As the warm sun begins to melt away the chill of spring, I can’t help but crave a cool treat that feels just as lovely as the season itself. Enter the delightful London Fog Ice Cream, a no-churn marvel that elegantly combines the comforting floral notes of Earl Grey tea with the sweet essence of vanilla. This recipe is a breeze to whip up, requiring only a handful of everyday ingredients, making it perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings—or a fun afternoon project with the kids. Plus, you can effortlessly make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a creamy delight ready whenever your sweet tooth strikes! Curious to learn how to turn this classic beverage into a frozen indulgence? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Ice Cream Unique?
Creamy Texture: The no-churn method creates a luxurious texture that rivals any ice cream parlor.
Earl Grey Essence: Infusing loose leaf Earl Grey tea brings a sophisticated flavor twist that elevates your dessert experience.
Simplicity: With only a few ingredients, you can whip this delightful treat together in no time—a perfect choice for busy days!
Versatile Base: Feel free to experiment with other flavors like chocolate or chai, just like in my Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole or transform your ice cream with lavender accents for a unique touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for picnics or gatherings, this ice cream is bound to impress friends and family alike, making it a go-to recipe for special occasions.
London Fog Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base
• Heavy Cream – the key to a rich and creamy texture; opt for full-fat for the best results.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – adds just the right amount of sweetness and a smooth finish; can be swapped with evaporated milk and sugar for a lighter option.
• Loose Leaf Earl Grey Tea – the star of this recipe, providing that distinct floral flavor; loose leaf enhances the taste more than standard tea bags.
• Vanilla Bean – infuses a warm, aromatic essence; in a pinch, 1 tsp of vanilla extract can be used, but fresh vanilla makes a world of difference.
With these simple ingredients, you can create the creamy London Fog Ice Cream that we all love, transforming a beloved beverage into a delightful frozen treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Ice Cream
Step 1: Heat the Cream and Tea
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey tea. Warm the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until it’s hot but not boiling—look for small bubbles forming along the edges. Remove the saucepan from the heat when you see it just steaming.
Step 2: Steep the Tea
Transfer the warm cream and tea mixture to a heatproof bowl and place it in an ice water bath to cool down for 10 minutes. As the mixture cools, this will also allow the tea to infuse its delightful flavors fully into the cream. Stir occasionally, ensuring the tea leaves steep beautifully while watching for the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
Once the cream has cooled, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another bowl to remove the loose Earl Grey tea leaves. You should have a smooth and fragrant cream; if any tea bits remain, simply discard them. Chill this strained cream further in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to ensure it is well chilled for the next step.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
After chilling, scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean and add them to the creamed mixture. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes or until stiff peaks form. You’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape well and looks thick and fluffy, promising a rich base for your London Fog Ice Cream.
Step 5: Fold in the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Gently fold in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream until just combined. Be careful to maintain the airy texture you whipped up; the mixture should remain light and fluffy. This step adds just the right sweetness and contributes to the creamy texture you’re after in your London Fog Ice Cream.
Step 6: Freeze the Mixture
Pour the combined mixture into a metal or plastic container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 5-6 hours, or until it’s completely set. To ensure an even freeze, avoid opening the freezer too often during this time, allowing the ice cream to develop that perfect creamy texture.
What to Serve with No Churn London Fog Ice Cream
Ready to create the ultimate dessert experience that will delight your senses and elevate your gatherings?
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Buttery Shortbread Cookies: These simple, crumbly cookies provide a lovely contrast to the creamy ice cream. Their subtle sweetness complements the fragrant Earl Grey notes beautifully.
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Fresh Berries Medley: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a burst of freshness to every scoop. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the ice cream perfectly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A velvety drizzle of dark chocolate over your portion enhances the richness of the London Fog ice cream. This pairing adds a delightful depth of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Honeycomb Pieces: Crunchy and sweet, honeycomb offers a unique textural contrast that pairs wonderfully with the smooth ice cream. A few chunks on top will satisfy your craving for something sweet and crunchy!
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Lavender Tea: Elevate your dessert with a warm cup of lavender-infused tea. It echoes the floral notes of the ice cream for a relaxed afternoon treat.
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Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and subtle coconut flavor pair nicely with the Earl Grey essence. These delightful confections add an exotic twist to your dessert table.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate and enhances the overall experience. The citrusy notes will dance in harmony with the sweet vanilla and robust tea flavors.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and flavorful, biscotti are perfect for dipping into your ice cream. Their nutty notes harmonize beautifully with the Earl Grey, making this combination simply irresistible.
Storage Tips for London Fog Ice Cream
Fridge: Store any leftover London Fog ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days if you’re enjoying it quickly.
Freezer: Keep the ice cream in a tightly sealed container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. A metal container is ideal for maintaining texture.
Airtight Guidance: For best results, cover the surface of the ice cream with parchment paper before sealing it to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften for easy scooping.
London Fog Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to play around with this delightful recipe and create your personalized twist on London Fog Ice Cream!
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Chai Twist: Substitute Earl Grey with chai tea for a spiced, cozy ice cream experience that will warm your soul.
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Matcha Magic: Swap the Earl Grey for matcha powder to create a vibrant green ice cream with earthy undertones—perfect for tea lovers seeking something unique.
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Lavender Infusion: Add a teaspoon of culinary lavender to the cream while it heats to introduce a floral, aromatic twist that enhances the classic flavors.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle in some caramel sauce during the folding stage for a deliciously sweet surprise in every bite—ideal for those craving a richer taste.
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Coconut Cream: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that adds a tropical flair without losing creaminess.
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Chocolate Chips: For a delightful texture, toss in some mini chocolate chips just before freezing the mixture, providing a sweet contrast to the tea flavors.
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Bourbon Boost: Add a splash of bourbon during the folding step to introduce a sophisticated kick that pairs beautifully with the Earl Grey notes.
You can also explore variations in your favorite treats! If you love ice cream cakes, try incorporating your London Fog Ice Cream into this delicious Ice Cream Cake recipe. Or if savory dishes appeal more to you, a creamy base could be added to Baked Cream Cheese dishes for a unique twist!
Expert Tips for London Fog Ice Cream
- Use Cold Cream: Ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping; this helps achieve maximum volume and lightness for the London Fog ice cream.
- Avoid Overbeating: Be cautious not to overbeat the cream after adding the sweetened condensed milk, or it will become grainy instead of smooth.
- Choose Quality Tea: Opt for high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea, as the flavors are much more pronounced compared to tea bags.
- Freeze in Metal: For optimal chilling results, use a metal container for freezing; it allows for better heat conduction than plastic.
- Pre-Chill Ingredients: If you’re in a hurry, consider chilling the sweetened condensed milk slightly before folding it into the whipped cream to maintain that airy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful London Fog Ice Cream treats are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights or gathering preparations! You can prepare the cream mixture (up to 24 hours in advance) and refrigerate it, ensuring it remains fresh and ready to whip. Be sure to keep it covered to prevent any unwanted absorption of odors from the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip the chilled cream, fold in the sweetened condensed milk, and freeze the mixture as directed until it’s completely set—typically about 5-6 hours. By planning ahead, you’ll have a creamy, luxurious dessert ready to impress at a moment’s notice!
London Fog Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of Earl Grey tea is best for ice cream?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea. It infuses a more potent and aromatic taste than regular tea bags, enhancing the overall flavor of your London Fog ice cream.
How should I store London Fog ice cream?
To keep your delicious London Fog ice cream at its creamy best, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks. For optimal results, consider placing parchment paper directly on the ice cream’s surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I freeze London Fog ice cream for longer?
Certainly! While it’s best consumed within 2-3 weeks, you can freeze your London Fog ice cream for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use a quality airtight container to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften before scooping.
What to do if the ice cream is too hard to scoop?
Very common! If you find your ice cream is too hard straight from the freezer, let it sit out for about 5-10 minutes at room temperature. This allows it to soften slightly, making scooping much easier. Alternatively, you can use an ice cream scoop that has been warmed briefly under hot water to ease the process.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To adapt this London Fog ice cream recipe for a dairy-free option, you can use a full-fat coconut cream in place of the heavy cream, and coconut condensed milk as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but it can still be deliciously creamy and enjoyable!
Is it safe for pets?
While tasting a little bit won’t harm your furry friends, it’s generally not advisable to give your pets ice cream. Ingredients like sugar and dairy can upset their stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about specific treats for pets.
Creamy London Fog Ice Cream That'll Make Your Taste Buds Sing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey tea. Warm over medium heat for about 5 minutes until hot but not boiling, then remove from heat.
- Transfer the warm cream and tea mixture to a heatproof bowl and place in an ice water bath for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another bowl to remove tea leaves. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes.
- Scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean and add to the cream mixture. Using an electric mixer, whip on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk until just combined, maintaining the airy texture.
- Pour the mixture into a container, smooth the top, cover tightly, and freeze for at least 5-6 hours until set.
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