Vermont Maple Ice Cream
In our household, Vermont holds a special place in our hearts. It's not just the stunning landscapes or the warm-hearted people that draw us in, but also the rich culinary heritage that Vermont is so famous for. And at the very heart of this culinary tradition lies a golden treasure: Maple Syrup. Not just any maple syrup, mind you, but the pure, rich, and utterly divine syrup sourced directly from the Green Mountain State.
Our devotion to Vermont maple syrup is such that we have a house rule: no syrup shall cross our threshold unless it hails from Vermont. This brings me to one of my all-time favorite homemade delights: Maple Ice Cream. This ice cream isn't just a treat; it's a tribute to the essence of Vermont, made with love and the finest maple syrup we can find.
The Maple Guild: A Vermont Gem
Our journey of maple syrup exploration has led us to many remarkable producers, but one that stands out is The Maple Guild in Island Pond, VT. Their unique steam-crafted syrup and mind-blowing infused varieties have captured our taste buds and imaginations. Following them on Instagram led to a serendipitous moment last Christmas when we entered—and won—a contest for free maple syrup. It was this very syrup that we used to create our latest batch of Maple Ice Cream, turning an already special recipe into something truly memorable.
Homemade Maple Ice Cream Recipe
This Maple Ice Cream recipe is as simple as it is delicious, requiring just a few ingredients but delivering a rich, creamy texture and the unmistakable taste of Vermont's finest maple syrup. Here’s how to make it at home:
Ingredients:
1 cup whole milk
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup maple syrup (preferably from The Maple Guild, or your favorite Vermont producer)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, and brown sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Chill: For the best results, chill the mixture in your refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before churning. This ensures a smoother, creamier ice cream.
Churn: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The process typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
Freeze: Once churned to a soft-serve consistency, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid, usually about 4 hours or overnight.
Serve: Scoop and enjoy a taste of Vermont with each bite!
Bringing Vermont to Your Table
Making this Maple Ice Cream is more than just a culinary activity; it's a way to bring a piece of Vermont into our home, no matter where we are. It’s a reminder of the state's natural beauty, its people, and the simple joy of enjoying a product made with care and tradition.
We encourage you to try making this Maple Ice Cream at home. Whether you're a longtime lover of all things Vermont or simply in search of a delicious, easy-to-make dessert, this ice cream is sure to impress. So, from our Vermont-loving home to yours, enjoy this sweet, creamy delight and let it transport you to the rolling hills and maple forests of the Green Mountain State.