Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Made with whole milk yogurt, this frozen yogurt offers beneficial probiotics and less fat compared to conventional ice cream.
- Natural Sweetness: Honey not only sweetens the dessert naturally but also helps achieve a soft, scoopable texture.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a gourmet dessert at home.
- Versatility: Enjoy it plain or pair it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruits, granola, or a drizzle of additional honey.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whole milk yogurt (not Greek-style)
- Honey
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Prepare the Yogurt Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the honey is fully incorporated.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure it’s thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the Yogurt: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm: Transfer the churned yogurt into an airtight container. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming. Seal the container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Before serving, let the frozen yogurt sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 1 quart of frozen yogurt, serving about 4 to 6 people.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Churning Time: 20-25 minutes
- Freezing Time: 4 hours
Variations
- Fruit Swirl: Fold in a homemade fruit compote or swirl in your favorite jam after churning for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or cardamom into the yogurt mixture for a warm, aromatic note.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the frozen yogurt in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: To soften, let the frozen yogurt sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
FAQs
What type of yogurt is best for this recipe?
Use regular whole milk yogurt for the creamiest texture. Avoid Greek yogurt, as it can develop an unappealing texture when frozen.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
It’s best to use plain yogurt to control the sweetness and flavor. Flavored yogurts may alter the taste and consistency of the final product.
How does honey affect the texture?
Honey acts as a natural sweetener and also helps prevent the frozen yogurt from becoming too hard, keeping it soft and scoopable.
Is an ice cream maker necessary?
Yes, an ice cream maker is recommended for this recipe to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
While honey is preferred for its flavor and texture benefits, you can experiment with other liquid sweeteners like agave nectar or maple syrup, keeping in mind it may alter the taste and texture.
How long does it take to churn the yogurt?
Churning typically takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on your ice cream maker.
Can I add mix-ins?
Yes, you can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit pieces, or nuts during the last few minutes of churning.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?
Ensure the mixture is well-chilled before churning, and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the frozen yogurt before sealing the container to minimize ice crystal formation.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this honey vanilla frozen yogurt is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free yogurt and coconut cream as substitutes; however, the texture and taste may differ from the original recipe.
Conclusion
This Honey Vanilla Frozen Yogurt is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, offering a creamy texture and rich flavor with the benefits of probiotics. Its simple preparation and versatile nature make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and toppings to make it your own!
Honey Vanilla Frozen Yogurt
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (includes freezing time)
- Yield: 1 quart (serves 4-6)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a creamy, probiotic-rich Honey Vanilla Frozen Yogurt, made with natural honey and aromatic vanilla. This easy, healthier alternative to ice cream is the perfect homemade treat for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
- Whole milk yogurt (not Greek-style)
- Honey
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Yogurt Base: Combine whole milk yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the Yogurt: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm: Transfer churned yogurt to an airtight container. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals and freeze for 4 hours.
- Serve: Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Notes
- Use regular whole milk yogurt for the creamiest texture.
- To prevent ice crystals, ensure the mixture is well-chilled and plastic wrap is pressed against the surface before freezing.
- For variations, consider adding fruit compotes, nuts, or spices like cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing/Churning
- Cuisine: American