Maple walnut ice cream is a timeless classic, loved for its rich, nutty flavor and the natural sweetness of maple syrup. This delightful dessert combines the earthy crunch of walnuts with the smooth, creamy texture of ice cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. With the help of your Ninja Creami, making this treat at home is a breeze.
The combination of maple syrup and walnuts offers a deliciously comforting experience, perfect for any time of the year. Let’s create this irresistible dessert that promises to be a hit at your next gathering or a delightful treat for a quiet night in.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 24 hours
- Process Time: 5 minutes
Ninja Creami Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Ingredients
🍁 2 cups heavy cream
🍁 1 cup whole milk
🍁 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
🍁 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍁 1/4 teaspoon salt
🍁 1 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
- Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Add maple syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
- Cool the mixture: Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure it’s completely chilled.
- Prepare walnuts: While the base is chilling, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Let them cool completely.
- Freeze the base: Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for 24 hours.
- Process with Ninja Creami: After 24 hours, remove the pint from the freezer. Install the pint into the Ninja Creami machine, select the “Ice Cream” function, and process until smooth.
- Add walnuts: When the ice cream is finished processing, remove the pint and create a small hole in the center of the ice cream. Pour the chopped walnuts into the hole, reinstall the pint, and select the “Mix-Ins” function to incorporate the nuts evenly.
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop out the maple walnut ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy this creamy, nutty delight!
Recipe Video
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips for the Perfect Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Use Pure Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup rather than imitation or flavored syrups. The natural sweetness and unique flavor of pure maple syrup make a significant difference.
Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the ice cream. Be sure to let them cool completely before adding them to the ice cream base.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly. Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust according to your preference.
Add-In Ideas: For an extra indulgent treat, consider adding chocolate chips or a swirl of caramel sauce along with the walnuts.
The Rich Flavor of Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is more than just a pancake topping. Its rich, complex flavor profile makes it a fantastic sweetener for a variety of desserts. It pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of walnuts, creating a balanced and delicious ice cream.
The Versatility of Walnuts
Walnuts are not only nutritious but also versatile. They add a delightful crunch and a slightly bitter note that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup. Walnuts can also be used in other recipes, such as salads, baked goods, and savory dishes.
Storing Your Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To maintain the best texture, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This ice cream is best enjoyed within a week for optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Maple walnut ice cream is a delectable treat that combines the best of sweet and nutty flavors. With your Ninja Creami, you can easily create this classic dessert at home. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the delightful crunch of toasted walnuts in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this maple walnut ice cream is sure to be a favorite.