Pinon Ice Cream Recipe

Discover the rich, nutty flavors of pinon nuts through this delectable Pinon Ice Cream recipe. Renowned for their unique taste, pinon nuts are a Southwestern staple that infuse a delightful twist to traditional ice cream. 

This recipe is not only a perfect summer treat but also a year-round indulgence for those who appreciate a touch of rustic charm in their desserts. Follow along to create an ice cream that’s as enchanting in flavor as it is creamy and satisfying.

Share Personal Experience

My first encounter with pinon ice cream was at a quaint ice cream shop in Santa Fe. The creamy texture combined with the robust, piney nuts was unlike anything I had ever tasted. 

It inspired me to recreate this recipe at home, adding my personal touch for a perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor.

Equipment List

• Ice cream maker
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Ingredients List

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup pinon nuts, toasted and chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Pinon Ice Cream Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Pre-chill: Place the ice cream maker’s bowl in the freezer overnight.

Step 2:

Heat Base: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely, but do not boil.

Step 3:

Cool Down: Remove the mixture from heat, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to reach room temperature before placing it in the fridge to cool completely.

Step 4:

Toast Pinons: Toast the pinon nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, then roughly chop.

Step 5:

Mix: Stir the toasted pinon nuts into the chilled cream mixture.

Step 6:

Churn: Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker. Follow the ice cream maker’s guidelines to churn the mixture until it achieves a consistency akin to soft serve.

Step 7:

For freezing, shift the ice cream into a sealed container. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips For Success

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality pinon nuts for the best flavor.
2. Pre-Chill: Ensure your ice cream base is thoroughly chilled before churning.
3. Monitor Toasting: Keep a close eye on the pinon nuts while toasting to avoid burning.
4. Storage: To maintain the texture, keep the ice cream in a tightly sealed container to avoid the formation of ice crystals.
5. Serving: Before serving, let the ice cream thaw slightly at room temperature to facilitate scooping.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Pinon: Add mini chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning.
• Caramel Swirl: Swirl in caramel sauce before the final freezing.
• Pinon Coffee: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee powder to the milk while heating.
• Vegan Pinon: Use coconut milk and cream, substituting honey for sugar.
• Pinon Nut Brittle: Fold in crushed pinon nut brittle for added texture.

Conclusion

This Pinon Ice Cream recipe transforms traditional ice cream into a nutty, luxurious treat that’s sure to delight any palate. 

Whether you’re a longtime fan of pinon nuts or new to their unique flavor, this ice cream will add a special touch to your dessert repertoire, making it a memorable part of any dining experience.

FAQs

How do I store homemade pinon ice cream?

Store homemade pinon ice cream in an airtight container in the deepest part of your freezer.

It is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks of making to maintain the optimal texture and flavor.

What pairs well with pinon ice cream?

Pinon ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm desserts such as apple pie or chocolate brownies.

Additionally, it goes well with a simple drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted oats or granola for added texture.

Is there a vegan version of pinon ice cream?

Absolutely! To make vegan pinon ice cream, replace the dairy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and almond milk.

Use a vegan sweetener if needed, and follow the same preparation steps as the traditional recipe.

What is the nutritional value of pinon ice cream?

Pinon ice cream, like most nuts-based ice creams, is higher in calories due to the fats from the cream and nuts.

However, pinon nuts offer beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and potassium. Enjoy this treat in moderation to complement a well-rounded diet.

Can pinon ice cream be made with less sugar?

Yes, you can make pinon ice cream with less sugar by reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe or substituting it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Keep in mind that changing the sweetener may slightly alter the texture and freezing properties of the ice cream.