Olive Oil Silky Dessert

I discovered olive oil ice cream quite by accident while experimenting with new dessert ideas to surprise my friends last summer. The silky texture combined with the fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil instantly won me over and changed how I think about ice cream forever.

One evening when unexpected guests arrived, I whipped up this ice cream from scratch. Watching their faces light up as they tasted it was a moment I won’t forget.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: I reach for whole milk because it provides the perfect creaminess without overpowering the olive oil’s delicate flavor
• Heavy cream: This adds that luxurious richness that makes the ice cream silky smooth
• Granulated sugar: A precise amount to sweeten gently without masking the subtle olive notes
• Fine sea salt: Enhances flavors and helps balance sweetness
• Egg yolks: They create a custard base that’s velvety and thick, essential for texture
• Extra virgin olive oil: Only the freshest, fruitiest kind works here to achieve that signature flavor
• Vanilla extract (optional): Adds a whisper of warmth if you like

Instructions

Warm the dairy base:

Gently combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt over medium heat while stirring until sugar dissolves. Be careful not to let it boil, you want silky warmth stirring memories of cozy kitchens.

Temper the eggs:

Slowly whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks—this part feels like a delicate dance to avoid scrambling while building your creamy base.

Cook to custard perfection:

Return the mixture to low heat and stir constantly until it thickly coats the back of your wooden spoon, cozy steam filling your kitchen.

Strain and cool:

Pour through a fine sieve to keep your ice cream luscious and smooth, then let it cool to room temperature.

Emulsify the flavors:

Whisk in the olive oil and optional vanilla until the mixture is silky and well-blended, smelling fresh and slightly fruity.

Chill for patience rewards:

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight—this wait heightens flavors and readies the mixture for the final transformation.

Churn to creamy bliss:

Use your ice cream maker to churn the custard until perfectly thick and creamy, reminiscent of soft clouds in a bowl.

Freeze to set:

Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving to achieve that ideal scoopable texture.

Save

This ice cream became more than a dessert one chilly evening—sharing it felt like passing along a little piece of joy and comfort that warmed us all beyond the last spoonful.

Keeping It Fresh

I always recommend storing the olive oil ice cream in an airtight container to maintain its delicate flavor and avoid freezer burn. When serving, letting it sit a few minutes at room temperature softens it just right for the perfect scoop.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Try pairing this ice cream with fresh berries or a sprinkle of citrus zest to brighten the earthy olive oil notes. A drizzle of honey or a few toasted nuts also add delightful texture and sweetness contrast.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, when I forgot to buy dessert for a dinner party, this recipe came to the rescue. I whipped it up quickly and everyone was amazed at how elegant and unique it tasted.

• Remember to use a high-quality olive oil for best flavor
• Chill the mixture overnight if you can, it really deepens taste
• Don’t over-churn or your ice cream can get icy and lose creaminess

Save

Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me—hope your olive oil ice cream brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What role does olive oil play in this dessert?

Extra virgin olive oil contributes a fruity, elegant flavor and adds silkiness to the texture when emulsified into the custard base.

→ How is the custard thickened without boiling?

The mixture is gently heated while stirring until it coats the back of a spoon, preventing curdling and ensuring a smooth consistency.

→ Can the dessert be made ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the custard mixture overnight improves flavor and texture before churning and freezing.

→ What are ideal pairings to enhance the flavor?

Fresh berries or citrus zest complement the fruity olive oil notes, adding brightness to the creamy dessert.

→ Are there any dietary considerations?

This dessert contains dairy and eggs but is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.