Alaska

Wild Blueberry Ice Cream

Experience the untamed beauty of Alaska in every spoonful with this vibrant wild blueberry ice cream. Made with hand-picked Alaskan wild blueberries, this deeply purple treat captures the essence of the Last Frontier's pristine wilderness.

40 min churn time 6 servings Easy Dairy-based

Jump to Ingredients

Equipment Needed

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Ice Cream Maker

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Large Mixing Bowl

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Medium Saucepan

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Blender

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Freezer Container

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Fine Mesh Strainer

Ingredients

For the Blueberry Puree:

2 cups wild blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Ice Cream Base:

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

3/4 cup granulated sugar

4 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine the wild blueberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until the berries burst and release their juices.

Transfer the cooked blueberries to a blender and puree until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove seeds and skins. Set aside to cool.

In a heavy saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, and half of the remaining sugar over medium heat until it begins to steam, about 5 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt until pale yellow and slightly thickened.

Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Return the entire mixture to the saucepan.

Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard reaches 170 degrees F and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and the cooled blueberry puree. Mix until well combined and the color is uniform.

Strain the mixture into a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, about 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy.

Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm. Garnish with fresh wild blueberries when serving.

Tips for Perfect Wild Blueberry Ice Cream

Wild vs. Cultivated

Wild blueberries are smaller and more intensely flavored than cultivated varieties. If using cultivated, add an extra 1/4 cup for more flavor.

Frozen Works Great

Frozen wild blueberries work just as well as fresh and are available year-round. No need to thaw before cooking.

Keep the Color Vibrant

The lemon juice helps preserve the beautiful purple color and adds a bright note that enhances the berry flavor.

Strain for Smoothness

Wild blueberries have more seeds than cultivated varieties. Straining ensures a silky texture.

Add Texture

For added texture, fold in 1/2 cup of whole wild blueberries during the last minute of churning.

Serving Suggestion

Pair with warm biscuits or serve alongside a slice of pie for a true Alaskan wilderness experience.