Homemade Fig And Honey Ice Cream Recipe

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Cherie

Learn to make a delicious Homemade Fig and Honey Ice Cream recipe. Fresh figs, natural honey, and creamy texture make this a must-try treat for any season!

If you’re a fan of creamy, rich, and naturally sweet treats, you’re in for a special surprise with our Homemade Fig and Honey Ice Cream. This is a favourite flavour combination that combines the delicate sweetness of ripe figs with the natural goodness of honey, this ice cream is a must-try for anyone who loves exploring unique flavours.

In this article we’ll explain a little about figs, their flavour profile, and their many uses, we’ll share information on the health benefits of both figs and honey and of course, we’ll share our homemade Fig and Honey Ice Cream Recipe with you too.

If you’d prefer to go straight to the recipe and method, click on the following link, or read along to find out more about this fantastic flavour fusion.

Jump to Fig and Honey Ice Cream Recipe

Figs: A Versatile Fruit for Sweet and Savoury Dishes

Figs are remarkably versatile fruits that seamlessly transition between sweet and savoury culinary applications.

Their unique flavour profile and texture make them a prized ingredient in diverse cuisines around the world. Figs have a curious and complex flavour profile that may not appeal to everyone at first taste.

These small, pear-shaped fruits come with delicate skin ranging from deep purple to light green, depending on the variety. Inside, they boast a soft, jammy texture filled with tiny, edible seeds that provide a subtle crunch.

Known for their distinct taste, figs offer a naturally sweet flavour with hints of honey and caramel, complemented by earthy undertones. They also carry a slightly floral aroma with a mild tanginess that adds depth to their overall profile.

The versatility of figs shines in both sweet and savoury dishes. In desserts, their natural sweetness enhances ice creams, tarts, and pastries. When used in savoury recipes, figs add a sophisticated sweetness that balances well with salty cheeses, cured meats, and robust herbs.

Why Figs Work Well in Homemade Ice Cream

Figs are an excellent choice for homemade ice cream because their natural sweetness blends beautifully with the creamy base, adding depth and complexity to the flavour. Their slightly floral notes pair wonderfully with honey, enhancing the overall taste.

The soft, luscious texture of figs also contributes to a smooth, velvety ice cream, while their subtle acidity balances the richness of the cream, creating a refreshing and indulgent treat.

The Sweet Perks: Health Benefits of Figs and Honey

Figs: Nature’s Nutrient Powerhouse

Figs are not just delicious – they’re also packed with nutrients that offer a range of health benefits. Rich in dietary fibre, figs support healthy digestion and can help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. They are an excellent source of essential minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, which are vital for bone health, muscle function, and energy production. Additionally, figs contain powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.

Honey: Liquid Gold for Your Health

Honey is often called “nature’s sweetener” for a reason. Besides adding a lovely floral flavour, honey offers numerous health benefits. It contains a variety of antioxidants, such as phenolic acids and flavonoids, which combat free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a natural remedy for sore throats and minor wounds. Moreover, honey can help regulate blood sugar levels more effectively than refined sugar, thanks to its lower glycemic index.

The Perfect Pairing:

When combined in our homemade ice cream, figs, and honey not only create a unique flavour profile but also bring together their complementary health benefits.

Figs offer fibre and essential nutrients, while honey provides natural sweetness and immune-boosting properties – making this dessert both a treat for your taste buds and a bonus for your well-being!

Gathering Your Ingredients: Freshness Matters

Selecting the Best Figs:

Start with the star of your ice cream – fresh figs.

When choosing figs, look for ones that are plump, tender, and slightly soft to the touch, with a deep colour and a fragrant aroma. Avoid figs that are overly firm, have blemishes, or show signs of mould. Figs should yield gently to pressure but not be mushy.

Why Honey is the Perfect Sweetener:

In this recipe, honey takes centre stage as the sweetener. Not only does it add its own nuanced floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with figs, but it also offers a range of health benefits – from its antioxidant properties to its natural antibacterial qualities.

Unlike refined sugars, honey imparts a depth of flavour and a hint of caramel-like richness that makes your ice cream irresistibly delicious.

Other Essential Ingredients:

To create the perfect creamy texture, you’ll need double cream and whole milk, which provide the fat content essential for smooth and luscious ice cream.

A dash of vanilla extract enhances the natural flavours of figs and honey, adding a warm, aromatic note.

Sourcing High-Quality Ingredients:

Always opt for organic and high-quality ingredients when possible. Using organic figs, local honey, and farm-fresh dairy not only enhances the flavour but also supports sustainable and ethical farming practices.

Homemade Fig and Honey Ice Cream Recipe

Here’s our recipe and easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions to make homemade fig and honey ice cream:

Ingredients:

• 300g fresh figs (about 6-8 figs)
• 150ml honey (preferably raw or local honey)
• 300ml double cream
• 200ml whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavour)

Method:

• Prepare the Figs:
• • Wash the figs thoroughly and pat them dry. Remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters. If the skins are thick or tough, you may choose to peel them for a smoother ice cream texture.
• Cook the Fig Mixture:
• • In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped figs and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs soften and break down into a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
• Blend to a Smooth Puree:
• • Once the fig mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside to cool completely.
• Make the Ice Cream Base:
• • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the double cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt (if using). Add the cooled fig and honey puree to the bowl, and whisk until well combined.
• Churn the Ice Cream:
• • Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 20-25 minutes, or until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
• Alternative Method (Without Ice Cream Maker):
• • Pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container. Place it in the freezer and stir vigorously with a fork or whisk every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches a creamy consistency. Please also check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker – to learn more.
• Freeze Until Firm:
• • Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
• Serve and Enjoy:
• • Serve your homemade fig and honey ice cream in bowls or cones. Garnish with extra honey drizzle, fresh fig slices, or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavour.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Freezing Time: 2-4 hours (churning and setting)

Total Time: 3-5 hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugars: 33g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fibre: 1.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any season. Enjoy the natural sweetness of figs and honey in every creamy scoop!

Storing Leftovers:

Keep any leftovers in a well-sealed container in the freezer, and cover the surface of the ice cream with parchment paper or cling film to prevent ice crystals from forming. Enjoy within a week for the best flavour and texture.

Perfect Pairings: Delicious Accompaniments for Fig and Honey Ice Cream

To elevate your fig and honey ice cream experience, consider serving it with a variety of delicious accompaniments.

Each of these suggested pairings complements the unique flavours and textures of your fig and honey ice cream, adding new layers of texture and taste to every bite.

• Fresh Figs: Serve with a few slices of fresh figs to amplify the fruity flavours of the ice cream. The fresh figs offer a bright, juicy contrast to the rich, creamy texture, enhancing the natural fig taste and adding a burst of freshness.
• Chopped Nuts (Pistachios or Walnuts): Sprinkle some chopped pistachios or walnuts over your ice cream. The nuts provide a textural crunch that contrasts with the ice cream’s smooth texture, while their earthy, buttery notes complement the caramel-like sweetness of honey.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of extra honey over the ice cream adds an additional layer of natural sweetness and a glossy finish. This simple touch enhances the honey flavour in the ice cream, creating a richer, more indulgent experience.
• Balsamic Reduction: A few drops of balsamic reduction might sound unconventional, but they pair surprisingly well with figs. The tangy and slightly sweet balsamic cuts through the ice cream’s richness, adding a sophisticated balance to the dessert.
• Shortbread Biscuits or Almond Biscotti: Serve a piece of shortbread or almond biscotti alongside the ice cream. The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread or the crispness of biscotti adds a delightful contrast, while their mild sweetness complements the flavours without overpowering them.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of colour and a hint of herbal freshness. The mint offers a refreshing contrast to the ice cream’s rich and creamy flavour, making it feel lighter and more invigorating.
• Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle a few dark chocolate shavings over the ice cream for a touch of luxury. The bittersweet notes of dark chocolate add complexity and balance to the sweetness of the figs and honey, enhancing the overall flavour profile.
• Greek Yoghurt: A dollop of thick Greek yoghurt on the side adds a tangy contrast to the sweet ice cream. The creamy texture of the yoghurt complements the ice cream, while its slight acidity cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance of flavours.

These accompaniments not only add variety and texture but also enhance the unique taste of your fig and honey ice cream, making it an even more memorable and delicious dessert experience.

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We hope that you have enjoyed our article and we especially hope that we have inspired you to give this recipe a go yourself. If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we’d love to see your homemade creations!

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