The Ninja Creami machine is perfect for creating creamy and delicious ice creams, sorbets, and milkshakes at home. In this guide, we’ll go through a simple coffee ice cream recipe that you can whip up using the Ninja Creami. This recipe offers a rich, smooth texture and an intense coffee flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream: This adds richness and a smooth texture to the ice cream.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides a creamy base while balancing the richness of the heavy cream.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the ice cream.
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee: For a strong coffee flavor, you can adjust the amount based on your preference.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Begin by dissolving the instant coffee in a small amount of hot water. Use just enough water to fully dissolve the coffee granules, ensuring there are no clumps. This will help create a smooth, consistent flavor throughout the ice cream. Let the coffee mixture cool to room temperature.
- Mix the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. The sugar should be completely incorporated to avoid any grainy texture in your ice cream.
- Add Coffee and Vanilla: Once the sugar has dissolved, add the cooled coffee mixture and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well to combine. The mixture should have a uniform color and texture, with no visible separation of ingredients.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container. Secure the lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. Chilling the mixture before freezing helps to improve the texture of the final ice cream.
- Freeze the Mixture: After the mixture has chilled, transfer the pint container to the freezer. Freeze for at least 24 hours. The mixture needs to be completely solid before processing in the Ninja Creami.
- Process the Ice Cream: After freezing, remove the pint from the freezer. Place the pint container into the Ninja Creami machine. Secure the lid with the paddle attachment, and select the “Ice Cream” function. The machine will blend the frozen mixture into a creamy consistency.
- Check and Reprocess: Once the cycle is complete, check the texture of the ice cream. If itβs too crumbly, run the “Re-Spin” function once or twice until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the coffee ice cream into bowls or cones. You can enjoy it as is or add your favorite toppings, such as chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or crushed cookies. The bold coffee flavor pairs well with various toppings, so feel free to get creative.
Tips for the Best Coffee Ice Cream
- Adjusting the Coffee Strength: If you prefer a milder coffee flavor, reduce the amount of instant coffee to 2 teaspoons. For a stronger flavor, increase it to 1.5 tablespoons.
- Sweetness Level: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar. Start with 1/2 cup, and adjust from there.
- Mix-ins: Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or caramel swirls after the first churn cycle. Use the “Mix-In” function on the Ninja Creami to evenly distribute them without over-churning the ice cream.
Storing Your Coffee Ice Cream
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep for up to two weeks. When ready to enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping. This will make it easier to serve and enhance its creamy texture.