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Kulfi Ice Cream

A rich and creamy Indian frozen dessert infused with cardamom and saffron, perfect for hot days and special occasions.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 cups full-fat milk For a creamy base.
  • 1 cup heavy cream To enhance richness and texture.
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk A luscious sweetness that hugs the ice cream.
  • 1/4 cup sugar For added sweetness and flavor complexity.
Flavoring Ingredients
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom Infusing a warm, aromatic essence.
  • pinch saffron strands (optional) Adding an exquisite color and aroma.
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional) For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon rose water or kewra essence (optional) To impart floral notes.

Method
 

Preparation of Base
  1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring 2 cups of full-fat milk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes.
Creating Creaminess
  1. Add 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup of sugar to the simmering mixture.
  2. Stir well and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Infusing Flavors
  1. Once thickened, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom and a pinch of saffron strands if using.
  2. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld.
Adding Texture and Aroma
  1. Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios and 1 tablespoon of rose water or kewra essence if desired.
Cooling and Freezing
  1. Remove to cool at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes.
  2. Pour the mixture into kulfi molds or popsicle molds and secure them.
  3. Freeze for a minimum of 6-8 hours or overnight.
Serving
  1. Run warm water over the molds for easy release of the kulfi.
  2. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For a healthier version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. Taste testing before freezing is essential to achieve desired sweetness.