This delightful dessert combines the creamy richness of homemade ice cream with the tartness of fresh berries, all complemented by the crisp elegance of almond tuiles. It’s a perfect treat for warm days or special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream:

• 150g raspberries
• 150g blackberries
• 200g caster sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 500ml crème fraîche
• 1 vanilla pod, split
• 284ml double cream

For the Almond Tuiles:

• 100g icing sugar
• 25g plain flour
• 20g melted butter
• 2 egg whites
• 55g flaked almonds

Directions

1. Prepare the Berry Ripple:
   • In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, blackberries, 2 tbsp water, and 40g of the caster sugar.
   • Gently heat, crushing the berries slightly until the sugar dissolves and juices are released.
   • Allow to cool, then chill in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base:
   • Place a bowl over a pan of simmering water.
   • Whisk together the egg yolks and remaining caster sugar for about 5 minutes until thick and pale.
   • Remove from heat and whisk in the crème fraîche.
3. Combine and Freeze:
   • Scrape the seeds from the vanilla pod and add to the double cream.
   • Whisk the cream until it just holds its shape.
   • Fold the whipped cream into the crème fraîche mixture.
   • Pour into a chilled 1.5-litre plastic container.
   • Drizzle the chilled berry mixture over the top and use a spoon to create a ripple effect.
   • Freeze for at least 6 hours.
   • Before serving, transfer the ice cream to the fridge for 20 minutes to soften slightly.
4. Prepare the Almond Tuiles:
   • Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan 150°C/gas 3).
   • Whisk together icing sugar, flour, melted butter, and egg whites to form a paste.
   • Line a baking sheet with non-stick parchment paper.
   • Spread the mixture thinly into 9cm circles on the parchment.
   • Sprinkle with flaked almonds.
   • Bake for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
   • Allow to cool on the baking sheet before carefully removing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements.

• Calories: 510 kcal
• Fat: 39.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 24.5g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Sugars: 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fibre: 1.5g
• Salt: 0.2g

The Origins of Ice Cream and Tuiles

Ice cream has been a beloved dessert for centuries, originating in ancient China where a frozen mixture of milk and rice was created. Over time, the technique spread across Europe, and by the 17th century, ice cream became a popular treat in the Western world. The addition of berries into ice cream dates back to when people first began experimenting with fruit-based desserts, often using locally sourced fruits to infuse flavors into the creamy base.

The almond tuile, which accompanies this ice cream recipe, has its origins in French cuisine. “Tuiles” meaning “tiles” in French, are delicate, thin, and crisp cookies that resemble the shape of traditional French roof tiles. They are often flavored with almonds, providing an elegant touch to desserts. These almond tuiles are simple to make, but their light, crisp texture pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the ice cream, balancing the sweetness with a savory crunch.

Why Choose Blackberry and Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream?

Blackberries and raspberries both offer a burst of vibrant color and tart sweetness, which makes them an excellent choice for an ice cream base. These berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. The natural sweetness of the berries, combined with their subtle tartness, is the ideal complement to the creamy and smooth texture of the ice cream.

In addition, the ripple effect created by the berry mixture is visually stunning, adding a dynamic and artistic presentation to the dessert. This ripple provides a contrast in both color and flavor, ensuring that every bite is an exciting mixture of sweet creaminess and tangy berry goodness. The addition of almond tuiles elevates the dessert, offering a crunchy element that enhances the overall texture profile.

The Creaminess Factor

The creaminess of the ice cream in this recipe comes from a combination of double cream and crème fraîche, two luxurious dairy products that work together to create a smooth, velvety texture. Crème fraîche is a cultured cream with a slightly tangy flavor that adds complexity to the overall taste of the ice cream. Double cream, on the other hand, is rich in fat, which helps the ice cream to maintain a silky smooth consistency and a rich mouthfeel.

Homemade ice cream, as opposed to store-bought versions, has a superior texture and flavor because it’s made with fresh ingredients and without the use of stabilizers or artificial flavors. By making your own ice cream, you can ensure that the mixture is perfectly smooth and full of rich, natural flavors. The result is a luxurious dessert that you can be proud to serve at any gathering.

The Role of Almond Tuiles

Almond tuiles are an essential part of this recipe, providing a contrast to the smooth, creamy texture of the ice cream. These delicate, crispy cookies are thin and light, which allows them to break easily into shards, offering a delightful crunch in every bite. Their subtle almond flavor also complements the berry ice cream, adding depth and warmth to the overall dessert.

The process of making almond tuiles is simple, requiring only a few ingredients, but their crisp texture and elegant presentation make them a perfect pairing for an elegant dessert like this one. The tuiles are often shaped in a curved, arch-like form, mimicking the traditional tile shapes that inspired their name. When paired with the ice cream, they provide not only a contrast in texture but also an added visual element, enhancing the overall presentation of the dessert.

Serving Suggestions

This ice cream with almond tuiles can be served as a show-stopping dessert for dinner parties, family gatherings, or special celebrations. The combination of berries and cream is universally appealing, and the almond tuiles make the presentation feel special and refined. To serve, you can scoop the ice cream into bowls or glasses, ensuring that each serving has a generous swirl of the blackberry and raspberry ripple.

For added flair, you can garnish the dessert with fresh berries, sprigs of mint, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadent touch. If you want to make the dessert even more indulgent, consider adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of fruit coulis to enhance the berry flavors. This dessert is versatile and can be adapted to suit different preferences and dietary needs.

A Perfect Dessert for Summer

The combination of ice cream and fresh berries is especially ideal for summer, when berries are in season and the weather calls for refreshing treats. The light, fruity flavors of the ice cream are perfect for hot days when you want something sweet but not too heavy. The almond tuiles provide just the right amount of crunch and flavor to balance the softness and richness of the ice cream.

In addition, this dessert can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy hosts. You can prepare the ice cream and almond tuiles in advance and store them in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. The preparation process may take a little time, but the result is well worth the effort, and your guests will appreciate the homemade quality of the dish.

Health Benefits of Berries

Blackberries and raspberries are not just delicious; they are packed with nutrients that offer a range of health benefits. These berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which is essential for skin health and boosting the immune system. They also contain high levels of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate digestion and can aid in lowering cholesterol levels.

Furthermore, these berries are low in calories, making them a great choice for those who are mindful of their caloric intake. While the ice cream itself is indulgent, the natural benefits of the berries make it a healthier dessert choice compared to other options that are loaded with artificial ingredients or excess sugar.

Conclusion

Blackberry and Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream with Almond Tuiles is a dessert that not only delivers on flavor but also offers an elegant and visually striking presentation. The creamy richness of the ice cream, combined with the fresh, tart berry ripple and the crispy almond tuiles, creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This dessert is a great way to impress guests, whether it’s for a summer gathering or a special celebration.