Almond Cremolata

When I was growing up in Brooklyn, a special Sunday treat was a trip to our favorite Italian bakery for almond cremolata, the frozen almond-flavored ice cream treat. It is hard to find almond cremolata in bakeries today, but it is easy to make it yourself at home.

SERVES: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• ½ cup almonds (with skins), toasted and coarsely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk and the sugar.
2. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the mixture into a large bowl.
4. Stir in the remaining 3 cups of milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture until chilled, for several hours or overnight.
6. Freeze the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Just before the cremolata is almost ready, add the chopped almonds to the mixture.
8. Scoop the cremolata into a container and cover it.
9. Freeze the cremolata until it becomes firm, for about 2 hours or up to overnight.
10. Before serving, let the cremolata sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.

VARIATIONS:

• Chocolate Almond Cremolata: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the milk and sugar mixture before chilling. You can also stir in some chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate during the freezing process for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Raspberry Almond Cremolata: Swirl in some raspberry puree or add fresh raspberries to the mixture before freezing. The tartness of raspberries complements the almond flavor beautifully.
• Amaretto Almond Cremolata: Substitute 1 teaspoon of almond extract with 1-2 tablespoons of Amaretto liqueur for a delightful almond liqueur twist. You can also add some crushed Amaretti cookies to the mixture or use them as a topping.
• Salted Caramel Almond Cremolata: Drizzle some homemade salted caramel sauce over the cremolata layers while freezing. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
• Pistachio Almond Cremolata: Replace the almonds with pistachios or add them along with the almonds for a delicious nutty flavor. You can also add a few drops of pistachio extract for an extra boost of flavor.

WHY THIS RECIPE IS FAMOUS?

• Rich and Creamy: The use of whole milk and sugar creates a creamy base for the cremolata, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
• Nutty Flavor: The addition of toasted and coarsely chopped almonds adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor of the cremolata. The almond extract further intensifies the nuttiness, creating a distinct and enjoyable taste.
• Versatility: The basic recipe can be easily customized with variations, such as adding chocolate, fruits, or liqueurs, allowing for endless flavor possibilities. This versatility appeals to those who enjoy experimenting with different combinations.
• Refreshing and Cool: Almond Cremolata is a frozen dessert, making it perfect for hot summer days or any time you crave a refreshing treat. It provides a cool and satisfying experience, especially when served chilled.
• Simple Preparation: The recipe is relatively easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious homemade dessert that impresses with its taste and texture.