The Ultimate Ice Cream Book: Over 500 Ice Creams, Sorbets, Granitas, Drinks, and More
By Bruce Weinstein
William Morrow, 1999
$16
Seasoned cookbook writer Bruce Weinstein is the mastermind behind this comprehensive ice cream cookbook, one of the best options for a beginner's first (or only) ice cream cookbook.
Weinstein has filled the book with basic recipes that each have a series of variations that encourage creativity and experimentation (hence the 500 options mentioned in the subtitle). His ice cream recipes include both custard-style (made with eggs) and easier-to-make Philadelphia-style (without eggs). Some ice cream recipes in the book (such as Banana and Cinnamon) even have two recipes; one that's custard-style and one that's Philadelphia-style. And there are five recipes for vanilla ice cream, ranging from an extra rich and creamy version to one made with yogurt. He also includes recipes for ice cream cones ("If you're going to the trouble to make your own ice cream, why not spend a few more minutes and make your own cones?" he writes.), and toppings like Butterscotch Sauce, Hot Fudge Sauce and Wet Walnuts. Interspersed throughout the book are additional recipes that complement different ice cream flavors, such as a Sweet Cornbread Cake that pairs well with Corn Ice Cream, or Gazpacho that can be served with the Avocado Ice Cream. Finally, there are recipes for granitas and sorbets, and ice cream drinks, including sodas, malts and shakes.
The book's introduction has tips and useful information on ingredients and techniques, as well as a comparison of the various ice cream makers, such as ones with compression freezers, freezer canisters and rock-salt contraptions, along with a price range of each. Weinstein wisely writes, "Keep in mind that the easier the machine is to use, the more likely you are to use it."
The recipes themselves are detailed and precise, allowing little margin for error if you're a beginner. The notes at the beginning of each recipe have tips on selecting the most flavorful ingredients, and occasionally resources for finding unusual items, such as bubble gum flavoring. But those who are experienced at making ice cream will also find plenty of ideas, particularly with the numerous recipe variations.
Recipe Highlights
- Avocado Ice Cream and Gazpacho
- Bubble Gum Ice Cream
- Cannoli Ice Cream and Cannoli Shells
- Chocolate "Lower-Fat" Ice Cream
- Earl Grey Ice Cream
- Oatmeal Ice Cream
- Beet Granita
- Cider Sorbet
- Cucumber Granita
- Meringue Cones
