Homemade Gin And Tonic Ice Cream Recipe: The Perfect Summer Treat!

Discover the refreshing twist of our Homemade Gin and Tonic Ice Cream Recipe—a boozy, creamy delight that turns your favourite cocktail into the ultimate summer treat.

There’s a certain ritual to pouring a refreshing gin and tonic—first, filling the glass with crushed ice, then pouring the gin and listening to the ice crackle. Next comes the tonic, with its satisfying fizz, followed by the final touch: adding a slice or two of lemon (though some will argue for lime!) Whichever you choose, there’s something quite special about crafting a gin and tonic and taking that first crisp, refreshing sip. So we of course tried our hand at combining these familiar flavours in a homemade ice cream and we were very surprised by the results.

In this article we will provide a thorough guide to making and enjoying homemade gin and tonic ice cream, incorporating a range of useful tips and creative ideas to enhance the experience.

We will share some background information on the beverage Gin and Tonic, we’ll explain the use of alcohol in an ice cream format and of course, we will share with you our recipe and step-by-step guide for you to recreate this deliciously grown-up homemade Gin and Tonic Ice Cream.

If you’d rather go straight to the recipe, please click on the following link;

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Brief History and Popularity of Gin and Tonic

The drink gin and tonic has a storied history, originating in the British colonial era as a way to make quinine (a treatment for malaria) more palatable. Over time, it became a much-loved cocktail, celebrated for its crisp, refreshing taste.

Today, gin and tonic is a staple in bars around the world, known for its versatility and the endless possibilities of gin and tonic pairings.

The Concept of Alcoholic Ice Creams

Alcoholic ice creams have recently gained popularity as a unique way to enjoy classic cocktails in a frozen, creamy form.

These indulgent treats combine the best of both worlds: the refreshing kick of your favourite drink and the satisfying creaminess of ice cream.

Gin and tonic ice cream is a perfect example of this, offering a sophisticated and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days or special occasions.

Why Gin and Tonic Pairs Well with Creamy Desserts

Gin’s botanical notes, combined with the effervescence of tonic water, create a complex flavour profile that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of ice cream. The bitterness of the tonic water is balanced by the sweetness of the cream and sugar, while the gin adds a fragrant, herbal dimension that elevates the dessert. The result is a sophisticated treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Homemade gin and tonic ice cream offers a refreshing combination of flavours.

You can expect a creamy, slightly sweet base with bright, zesty notes from the gin and a subtle bitterness from the tonic water. The juniper and botanical undertones of the gin add complexity, making this ice cream a unique and memorable dessert.

Choosing the Right Gin for Your Ice Cream

The choice of gin is crucial to the final flavour of your ice cream.

Opt for a gin that you enjoy drinking, preferably one with a strong juniper presence and additional citrus or herbal notes.

London Dry gin is a classic choice, but you can experiment with flavoured gins for a unique twist.

Importance of Quality Tonic Water

The tonic water you choose will also significantly impact the flavour. A high-quality tonic water with a balanced bitterness and subtle sweetness works best. Avoid tonic waters that are too sweet, as they can overwhelm the delicate flavours of the gin and the creamy base.

Homemade Gin and Tonic Ice Cream Recipe

Let us now share with you our recipe and step-by-step guide to making a delicious Homemade Gin and Yonic Ice Cream:

Ingredients:

• 500ml double cream
• 250ml whole milk
• 150g granulated sugar
• 60ml gin (your preferred brand)
• 60ml tonic water (high-quality, preferably premium tonic)
• Zest of 1 lime
• 4 large egg yolks
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the double cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, but do not let the mixture boil.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become pale and slightly thickened. Gradually add a small amount of the warm cream mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
• Cook the Custard:
  • Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
• Chill and Churn:
  • Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • NB: If you don’t own an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe, you simply pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals, repeating this process for about 3-4 hours or until the ice cream is firm. Please also check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker – to learn more.
• Add the Gin and Tonic:
  • Once the ice cream base has reached a soft serve consistency, its now time to add the gin and tonic, stir in the gin, tonic water, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the flavours.
• Final Freeze:
  • Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it reaches your desired firmness.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Specific Ingredients

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute double cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar Alternatives: For a lower sugar version, use a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol, though the texture may vary slightly.
• Gin Substitutes: If you prefer a different spirit, vodka or rum can be used, though the flavour profile will change.
  • See our article – Whip up a Boozy Homemade Vodka and Orange Sorbet
  • See our article – Decadent Rum and Raisin Ice Cream: A Boozy Delight

Tips for Handling Alcohol During Freezing

Alcohol doesn’t freeze, so it’s important to balance the amount of gin and tonic in your recipe. Too much alcohol can prevent the ice cream from setting properly. Stick to the recommended measurements for best results.

For more detailed information on the fine balance required whilst using alcohol in ice cream recipes, please check out our article – The Art and Science of Blending Alcohol with Ice Cream

Common Mistakes to Avoid and Troubleshooting Tips

• Overheating the Custard: Don’t let the mixture boil, as this can cause the eggs to scramble. If this happens, strain the mixture to remove any curdled bits.

• Too Much Alcohol: Stick to the recommended amount of gin to avoid a too-soft texture.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

• In a Martini Glass: For a sophisticated presentation, serve scoops of gin and tonic ice cream in a chilled martini glass, garnished with a twist of lime zest.
• With a Sprig of Mint: Add a fresh sprig of mint for a pop of colour and an extra burst of flavour.

Garnishes that Enhance the Flavour

• Lime Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lime zest adds a zesty kick that complements the gin.
• Juniper Berries: Crushed juniper berries can be sprinkled on top for a more intense botanical flavour.

Pairing Ice Cream with Other Desserts or Cocktails

• With Shortbread Biscuits: The buttery flavour of shortbread pairs wonderfully with the zesty, creamy gin and tonic ice cream.
• Alongside a Gin Cocktail: Serve with a classic gin and tonic or a gin fizz for a double dose of gin goodness. You can never have too much gin!

Seasonal and Festive Presentation Ideas

• Summer Soirees: Serve in hollowed-out lime halves for a fun, summer-inspired presentation.
• Holiday Parties: For a festive twist, add a dash of cranberry sauce or pomegranate seeds for a pop of colour and tartness.

Tips for Storing and Maintaining Freshness

Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odours in the freezer. Press a piece of wax paper or cling film directly on the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Alcohol Serving Size, Moderations Tips and Considerations

Remember that this ice cream contains alcohol, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Each serving will have a small amount of gin, but it’s still important to consider the alcohol content when serving, especially to guests who may not drink alcohol regularly.

As with any alcohol-infused dessert, ensure that everyone enjoying this treat is of legal drinking age in your area.

Given the alcohol content, it’s wise to enjoy smaller portions. Consider serving this ice cream as a special treat rather than a regular dessert.

Experiment with Personal Twists

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different gins, add-ins, or garnishes to make this recipe your own. Whether you prefer a more citrus-forward gin or want to add a hint of herbal notes with rosemary or thyme, the possibilities are endless.

We would love to hear how your G & T ice cream turns out.

Gin and Tonic Ice Lollies: A Frozen Twist on a Classic Cocktail

Why not take it to the next level with gin and tonic ice lollies (or popsicles)?

These refreshing frozen treats capture the essence of your favourite cocktail in a fun, portable form. Perfect for summer, gin and tonic lollies are easy to make and offer a zesty, boozy refreshment that’s ideal for outdoor gatherings or simply cooling off on a hot day.

By combining gin, tonic water, a splash of lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, you can create a light, crisp frozen treat that’s as delicious as it is refreshing.

Serve them up at your next barbecue or keep a batch in the freezer for when you need a cool, sophisticated pick-me-up.

We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Homemade Gin And Tonic Ice Cream Recipe: The Perfect Summer Treat! and we hope that we have given you some ideas and tips to recreate your own delicious and refreshing Gin and Tonic Ice cream.

If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we will be happy to get back to you.

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