Last Updated on December 28, 2024 by Cherie
That’s correct – you did read it correctly. Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream! It’s one of our favourites. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also very healthful and very striking to the eye. Read on to find out more.
While traditional and classic ice cream flavours have been enjoyed for generations and continue to top the world’s favourite ice cream flavours, ice cream has and continues to evolve and is embracing creative and unconventional flavour combinations.
One such unique and surprisingly delicious frozen creation is Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream – a luscious and visually stunning treat that combines the natural sweetness of beetroots with the cool creaminess of ice cream.
In this article, we’ll discuss the earthy root veggie that is Beetroot and its transition from traditionally being used as savoury dishes to sweet. We’ll list the abundant health benefits of beetroot and of course, we’ll show you step-by-step how you can create this surprisingly delicious Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream.
If you’d prefer, you can click on the following link to go straight to the recipe and method or read along and find out more about this incredible earthy root veg and how it works with ice cream.
Embracing Nature’s Bounty
In recent years, the culinary world has witnessed a growing appreciation for the use of fresh, natural ingredients in innovative recipes.
Beetroot, a versatile and nutrient-packed root vegetable, has been making its way from traditional savoury dishes to unexpected sweet treats.
Beetroot is not only a vibrant and versatile ingredient but also a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fibre, it supports heart health and boosts stamina. Its natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugars, making it a healthier choice for indulgent desserts. Additionally, beetroot’s earthy undertones add depth to its flavour profile, making it perfect for creative recipes like this ice cream.
Beetroot, with its vibrant deep ruby-red colour, adds a burst of natural colour and earthy flavour that can transform a humble bowl of ice cream into a colourful and quite unexpected work of art.
Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream is a testament to all that nature has to offer and how with some creativity and imagination, we can transform an earthy root vegetable into a delicious homemade ice cream.
Natural Sweetness Abounds
Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream’s charm lies in its natural sweetness. Fresh, high-quality beetroots, with their inherent sugars, infuse the ice cream with a gentle, earthy sweetness that’s both indulgent and healthy.
This treat goes beyond dessert, offering a range of flavours that awaken your senses. It strikes a perfect balance between beetroot’s sweetness and creamy ice cream, creating a memorable and satisfying experience with each spoonful.
Beetroots Striking Colour
It was whilst cooking dinner for the family that the idea of beetroot ice cream came to me. As I pulled out an oven dish of roasted beetroot and carrots I saw the incredible colour of the beetroot glistening and the vibrant magenta-coloured juices and thought how gorgeous is that! I wonder how this will work in an ice cream.
Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream is not just delicious; it’s also a feast for the eyes. The natural pigments in beetroots give the ice cream a vibrant and eye-catching colour, making it a very bold homemade ice cream.
Whether in a bowl or on a cone, the ice cream’s beautiful magenta hue turns it into a work of art that captures everyone’s attention.
This visual delight is a great choice for special occasions, impressing guests with its uniqueness and adding a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Beetroot Ice Cream, Anyway You Want It – Vegan, Keto, and Gluten-Free Options
Beetroot ice cream can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For a vegan version, swap double cream for coconut or almond milk. Keto enthusiasts can replace sugar with erythritol or stevia to keep it low-carb, while gluten-free diets are naturally supported by this recipe.
These simple substitutions ensure that everyone can enjoy this unique dessert without compromise.
The Nutritional Power of Beetroot
Beyond its delicious taste and aesthetic appeal, Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream offers healthful benefits that elevate it above traditional ice cream.
Beetroots boast an impressive array of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and B-6, along with essential minerals like potassium and iron. They are also known for their antioxidant properties, aiding in promoting overall well-being and boosting the immune system.
Health Benefits of Beetroot
Beetroot, also known as beets, is a root vegetable that is packed with nutrients and health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of beetroot:
1. Rich in Nutrients: Beetroot is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C, potassium, and iron. It is also high in fibre and low in calories, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.
2. May Lower Blood Pressure: Beetroot contains nitrates, which can help dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. May Improve Athletic Performance: The nitrates in beetroot can also improve athletic performance by increasing blood flow to the muscles and reducing the amount of oxygen needed during exercise. This can lead to improved endurance and performance.
4. May Improve Digestive Health: Beetroot is high in fibre, which can help promote digestive health by supporting the growth of healthy gut bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements.
5. May Improve Brain Function: Beetroot contains nitrates, which can improve blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function. It may also help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
6. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties: Beetroot contains betalains, which are pigments that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. They may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.
7. May Improve Skin Health: Beetroot is high in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It may also help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Beetroot is packed full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, and is a versatile vegetable. It makes sense to utilise Beetroot as much as we can in our diet to improve our overall health and well-being.
While using it in a dessert, no less an ice cream may appear unlikely, be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by the flavour bomb that is Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream. Are you ready to give it a go yourself?
Perfect for Autumn and Winter
Beetroot ice cream’s rich, earthy flavour makes it ideal for cooler seasons. Its vibrant colour adds a festive touch to holiday tables, while its comforting sweetness pairs beautifully with seasonal favourites like gingerbread or warm fruit pies.
Whether served at a cosy family dinner or a holiday feast, beetroot ice cream is sure to surprise and delight guests with its unique charm.
Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream Recipe
Here’s our Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream Recipe and Method:
Ingredients:
Ingredients:- 125g raw beets, approximately 3 medium-sized beetroot
- 60-80g sugar (varies depending on personal taste)
- 100ml whole milk
- 125ml double cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Wrap the beets in aluminium foil and roast them in the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Remove the beets from the oven and let them cool.
- Once the beets are cool, peel them and chop them into small chunks.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and whole milk and allow to simmer, heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Take the cooled beets place them in a blender and blend until smooth (you can set aside a portion of the small chunks to add at a later point if you like. These Beetroot pieces can provide an exciting, earthy pop of flavour).
- Slowly pour the pureed beet mixture into the medium saucepan of sweetened whole milk, and stir thoroughly.
- Stir in the double cream and vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- NB: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes, to avoid crystals forming until it reaches the desired consistency. See our post How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker to learn more.
- Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Beetroot Ice Cream
Roast the beets: Roasting the beets before adding them to the ice cream mixture can help bring out their natural sweetness and flavour. Simply wrap the beets in aluminium foil and roast them in the oven until they are tender.
Use fresh beets: Fresh beets are best for making beetroot ice cream, as they will have a more vibrant colour and flavour than canned or precooked beets.
Strain the beet juice: To get the most flavour and colour from the beets, make sure you use the juice too, just be sure to strain it first through a sieve to eliminate any particles or bits and then add it to the cream mixture.
Use double cream: Using double cream in the ice cream mixture can help create a rich and creamy texture.
Add Beetroot pieces: For that additional earthy Beetroot hit. You can set aside some of the beetroot pieces to add after all ingredients have been combined. Textually, adding beetroot pieces provides another ‘layer’ to your Homemade Beetroot Ice cream, but of course, this comes down to personal preferences.
Add additional flavours: Beetroot pairs well with a variety of flavours, such as ginger, lemon, and vanilla. Consider adding these flavours to your ice cream mixture to enhance the overall taste.
Boozy Twists: For those who love adding a boozy twist to their desserts, incorporating alcohol into ice cream opens up a world of flavour possibilities. However, it’s essential to follow specific techniques to ensure the perfect texture and consistency. Check out our guide – The Art and Science of Blending Alcohol with Ice Cream – for expert tips and creative ideas.
Chill the mixture: Before churning the ice cream, make sure the mixture is chilled thoroughly. This allows the ingredients to merge and will help ensure that the ice cream freezes evenly and has a smooth texture.
Use an ice cream maker: Using an ice cream maker can help create a smooth and creamy texture in the ice cream. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make beetroot ice cream by freezing the mixture in a shallow container and stirring it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
If you don’t own an ice cream maker but are considering purchasing one, please head on over to our article – What is the Best Ice Cream Maker? A Detailed Review – This will help to guide you on what to look for in an ice cream maker.
Let the ice cream rest: Allowing the ice cream to rest in the freezer for a few hours after churning can help enhance the flavour and texture of the ice cream.
Adjust the amount of beetroot: The sweetness of beetroot can vary depending on the variety and freshness of the beet. If you find that your beetroot ice cream is too sweet, you can try using less beetroot in the mixture.
Add more sugar: If you find that your beetroot ice cream is not sweet enough, you can add more sugar to the mixture. Start by adding a tablespoon of sugar at a time, and taste the mixture after each addition until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
Use an alternative sweetener: If you prefer to use a different sweetener than sugar, you can try using honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead. These sweeteners can add a different flavour profile to the ice cream and may be less sweet than sugar.
Add citrus: Citrus fruits such as lemon or orange can help brighten the flavour of beetroot ice cream without adding sweetness. You can add citrus zest or juice to the ice cream mixture or use it as a garnish.
Add herbs: Herbs such as mint, basil, or thyme can add a fresh and aromatic flavour to beetroot ice cream. You can add these herbs to the ice cream mixture or use them as a garnish.
Use complementary flavours: Beetroot pairs well with a variety of flavours, such as vanilla, chocolate, honey or caramel. Consider adding these flavours to your ice cream mixture to enhance the overall taste.
For a refreshing twist, try adding a touch of ginger or lemon zest to brighten the earthy notes. Vanilla and honey bring out its natural sweetness, while dark chocolate adds a luxurious richness.
For a gourmet take, consider combining beetroot with herbs like basil or thyme to create a complex and aromatic profile.
By following these tips, you can enhance your Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream and create a delicious and creamy treat that is sure to impress. Remember to taste as you go along, add a little sugar here, or use a little less. Our recipe is purely a guideline that you can adapt to your needs and preferences.
Looking to elevate your homemade ice cream game? From achieving the creamiest texture to preventing ice crystals, our article – Homemade Ice Cream Hacks You Need to Know – is packed with expert tips to help you perfect your frozen creations.
Beetroot Ice Cream and Beyond – Earthy Dessert Flavours
If you’re intrigued by vegetable-based desserts, beetroot ice cream sits alongside other earthy options like sweet potato or pumpkin ice cream. These flavours share a natural sweetness and creamy texture, making them ideal for adventurous dessert lovers.
While pumpkin is often spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, beetroot shines with its bold colour and pairing versatility.
Beetroot Ice Cream and Global Ice Cream Trends
The rise of plant-based and vegetable-infused ice creams is transforming the dessert landscape. From sweet corn ice cream in Asia to avocado ice cream, in California, adventurous flavours are becoming mainstream. Beetroot, with its bold colour and natural sweetness, aligns perfectly with this trend. Its health benefits and eco-friendly appeal make it a popular choice for consumers seeking indulgence without compromise. By embracing beetroot ice cream, you’re not just making a dessert—you’re celebrating a global shift toward sustainability and creativity.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Absolutely! To make beetroot ice cream without an ice cream maker, prepare the mixture as directed and pour it into a shallow, freezer-safe container. Freeze the mixture, stirring vigorously with a fork or whisk every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours. This breaks up ice crystals and helps achieve a creamy texture. While it may not be as smooth as ice cream made with a machine, this method still yields delicious results.
2. How do I balance beetroot’s earthiness with sweetness?
Balancing beetroot’s earthy notes is all about pairing it with complementary flavours. Adding a splash of citrus juice (like lemon or orange) can brighten the flavour profile, while vanilla or honey enhances its natural sweetness. For a more indulgent twist, consider incorporating chocolate or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Tasting the mixture as you go allows you to fine-tune the sweetness to your preference, ensuring a harmonious balance.
3. What are some tips for getting the best colour in beetroot ice cream?
To achieve a vibrant and appealing colour, use fresh beetroots rather than canned or precooked ones. Roasting the beets helps to concentrate their natural hues and enhance their flavour. Straining the beet juice ensures a smooth texture while preserving the vivid colour. If you prefer a deeper shade, you can add a small amount of natural beet powder for an extra pop of pigment.
4. Can I add mix-ins to my beetroot ice cream?
Absolutely! Adding mix-ins like candied ginger, chopped nuts (such as pistachios or almonds), or dark chocolate chunks can provide texture and complementary flavours. For a more sophisticated twist, try incorporating swirls of orange marmalade or honey. Remember to fold the mix-ins gently after churning, just before freezing the ice cream for its final set.
5. How long can I store homemade beetroot ice cream?
Homemade ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. To maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavour, press a piece of parchment paper or cling film directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. Avoid storing it near strongly flavoured items in the freezer to prevent it from absorbing unwanted odours.
For more information on essential storage solutions for your homemade ice cream, please see our article – Ice Cream Storage Solutions – Essential Tips To Keep Your Homemade Ice Cream Fresh!
6. Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes! Substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like Honey, Maple syrup, stevia or monk fruit to make a sugar-free version that still tastes great.
For more information on the use of alternative sweeteners, head on over to our article – Balancing Flavour and Health – Natural Sweeteners and Homemade Ice Cream
The Final Scoop
Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream is a very unique blend of nature’s goodness and curious creation. Its natural sweetness, gorgeous vivid colours, and healthful qualities make this ice cream an exceptional and irresistible frozen treat.
Whether it’s a small family get-together or a grand event, this visually stunning ice cream has the ability to catch everyone’s eye and please everyone with its remarkable flavours.
Ready to give this unique recipe a go? What unique flavour combinations have you tried or would love to see in an ice cream? Share your results in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations! Don’t forget to explore our other homemade ice cream recipes for more inspiration – Recipes & Methods.
We hope you have enjoyed our article highlighting Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream, a vibrant and naturally sweet flavour. If you have any questions, please feel free to drop us a comment and we’ll be happy to get back to you.
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Now this ice-cream is a surprise to the tongue, as you may not know what to expect from a beetroot ice-cream but it’s very refreshing and does not taste overly savoury! It looks very pretty on the plate, especially with some mint leaves to counteract the earthy taste of the beetroot. I’m going to try it with a little zest of ginger next time, I imagine that would be a good combination!
Hey Kelly,
You’re right, Beetroot Ice Cream is quite challenging to the brain, but as you say a pleasant surprise to the palate. Glad you liked it and absolutely, very pretty visually.
Ohh, I like the idea of adding ginger, I think that will really add some heat as it were.
Being earthy, yet naturally sweet, Beetroot pairs very well with both sweet and savoury. So something like ginger another flavour that fits well in either corner will likely work very well.
Please let me know if you do try that! I might have to give that a go myself.
Thanks for that idea.
Cherie :o)
This Homemade Beetroot Ice Cream sounds intriguing! I never would have thought to combine beets with ice cream, but the natural sweetness and vibrant color seem like they would make for a unique and delicious treat. Has anyone tried making this recipe? I’m curious to know how it turned out!
Hey Alice,
It is a wonderful Ice cream and the sweetness of the Beets really does shine in this Ice Cream.
Of course, I have tried it, haha and its divine! I like to add small chunks of the roasted beets after its churned, just before I put it in the freezer to firm up, so when you’re then scoffing it, sorry, I mean eating it, you get these burst of beetroot flavour!
Its quite unexpectedly and surprisingly good!
If you do try it out, I’d love to hear how you get on.
Cherie
Wow, I have seen recipes for cakes with beetroot before, but never for ice cream, what a nice idea! Does the beetroot make it have a sweet taste and would it be possible to add less sugar because of it? And I have another question sorry: do you advise any particular brand for an ice cream maker? Because I don’t know if I can remember to stir the ice cream in time haha! thanks!
Hey Lizzy,
Thanks for your comment.
Yes, I know a curious choice hey? Beetroot probably wouldn’t be most people’s first choice for Ice Cream, but it was mine, haha.
It was the colour that caught me. I was roasting some beets for dinner and saw the rich red/deep pink in the oven dish and just thought – hmm, I wonder…
I’m always thinking about what my next crazy, yet amazing Ice Cream creation is going to be, so it’s no surprise I was straight onto testing beetroot out.
Beetroot is naturally sweet, yes it is, however, it is also an earthy vegetable. So inasmuch as the roasting draws out the natural sweetness, some form of sweetener is still required. Of course how much required comes down to personal preference.
You can sweeten with Sugar or there’s Agave syrup, or Honey to name a few.
If using Honey, be aware Honey also has its own flavour profile and so this could change the resulting flavour of your Beetroot Ice Cream.
The great thing is – it’s homemade! And so YOU get to tailor it to exactly your preference.
Always add less and test and you can add a little more if needed (remember if you add too much, you can’t take it back out afterward).
Ice cream makers? There are so many. Have a look at our review, link below. Anyone of these will create delicious Homemade Ice Cream. The cheaper one is very similar to the first Ice cream maker I had and it worked a treat for my needs then. It all depends on you, your needs and your budget etc.
What is the Best Ice Cream Maker? A detailed review. – Frosted Fusions
Have a look at the link, it’ll explain all the different functions of each ice cream maker and what you can/should expect. There are links in the post to show you lots more different Ice cream makers too.
If you have any questions, please come back to me. And if you do make your own, definitely come back to me and let me know how you get on!
All the very best
Cherie :o)
Hey Cherie!
This sounds amazing! I love beets and the thought of making ice cream out of them never would’ve occurred to me. But they are SO good for us, on so many levels, that making something as sumptuous sounding as this only makes sense.
You described it so well, too. I could actually taste it as I was reading about it. Sweet is nice. But that excessive sweetness that is the norm for store bought confectionaries gives me a headache, just thinking about it. This though, sounds perfect.
The double cream makes me swoon. I want to try it made with maple syrup and mint…or chocolate. Maybe both.
I’ve never tried making ice cream before, and don’t have an ice cream maker. So I appreciate your instructions for doing it without one. I’m gonna have me some fun!
Thanks!
Anna
Hey Anna,
Thanks for your comment.
Glad you love beets and Beetroot Ice Cream post drew your eye. Beets are truly a gift from nature and they work so well in Ice cream – unbelievably so, but they do.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, then do check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker – Frosted Fusions – which gives you lots of tips.
Would love to hear how you get on.
All the best, Cherie :o)