Description
This Dr. Pepper Ice Cream recipe combines the unique, bold flavor of Dr. Pepper soda with a rich, creamy custard base for a delightful frozen treat. The process involves creating a smooth custard infused with the soda’s distinctive flavor, then chilling and churning it into a creamy ice cream that’s perfect for hot days or as a fun dessert pairing.
Ingredients
Scale
Ice Cream Base
- 1 cup Dr. Pepper (preferably regular, not diet)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Custard
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the Dr. Pepper, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat while stirring occasionally until warm but not boiling.
- Whisk Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the 5 large egg yolks until pale and creamy, which helps incorporate air and sets the stage for a smooth custard.
- Temper Eggs: Slowly add a small amount of the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This careful mixing prevents the eggs from scrambling by gradually raising their temperature.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan containing the rest of the warm cream mixture. Keep whisking constantly to blend everything evenly.
- Cook Custard: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling, which can curdle the custard.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the custard cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly.
- Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn following the manufacturer’s instructions for about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 2-4 hours until it firms up.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop and serve your homemade Dr. Pepper Ice Cream on its own or pair with chocolate cake or cookies for a delicious dessert experience.
Notes
- Use regular Dr. Pepper, not diet, to ensure proper flavor and texture.
- Tempering the eggs is crucial to avoid curdling and ensure a silky custard.
- Do not boil the custard; cook on low heat and watch closely to prevent scrambling.
- Refrigeration time is important for flavor development and proper churning.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can periodically stir the mixture during freezing to minimize ice crystals.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
