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Caramel Popcorn Ice Cream
Dominique

Caramel Popcorn Ice Cream

This Caramel Popcorn Ice Cream is a delightful blend of creamy vanilla ice cream mixed with rich caramel popcorn, creating an unforgettable flavor profile that balances sweet and salty, perfect for sharing around the family table.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 10 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 4 cups popped popcor
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup light corn syrup
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, half of the granulated sugar, and salt. Heat until hot.
  2. Whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until pale. Temper by slowly adding hot mixture to yolks, then return to saucepan.
  3. Cook the custard until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, then strain and chill.
  4. Prepare caramel popcorn by melting butter and combining with brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Boil until caramel reaches 250°F.
  5. Pour caramel over popcorn, mix to coat, and allow to cool.
  6. Churn the ice cream base until soft-serve consistency, adding two-thirds of caramel popcorn in the last 5 minutes.
  7. Transfer to a container, layer with remaining popcorn, and freeze until firm.

Notes

Chill the base overnight for best texture. Use fresh popcorn for optimal crunch.