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Delicious Easy Black Sesame Ice Cream served in a bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Easy Black Sesame Ice Cream

A nutty, toasty, and earthy ice cream made with black sesame paste, offering a comforting dessert experience without complicated steps.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Black Sesame Paste
  • 1 cup black sesame seeds Toasted before blending.
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar or honey Adjust to taste.
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons neutral oil Like avocado or grapeseed; add more if needed.
  • 1 pinch salt Enhances flavor.
For the Ice Cream Base
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk is preferred.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds richness.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Sweetness to balance flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup black sesame paste Use more for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla Optional, for additional flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Used for thickening.
  • 3 tablespoons cold milk For mixing with cornstarch.

Method
 

Make Black Sesame Paste
  1. Toast the black sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the seeds smell nutty.
  2. Let them cool for a few minutes, then blend in a food processor until sandy.
  3. Add sugar, salt, and a bit of oil. Blend until it becomes a thick paste.
Prepare Ice Cream Base
  1. In a bowl, mix together milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and black sesame paste.
  2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with cold milk to create a slurry.
  3. Heat the mixture on medium, whisking constantly until it thickens slightly.
  4. Remove from heat and optionally stir in vanilla.
  5. Chill the base in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Freeze Ice Cream
  1. If using an ice cream machine, churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then freeze for 3 to 4 hours.
  2. For no-churn method, pour into a shallow container and stir every 30 to 45 minutes for about 3 hours, then freeze until scoopable.

Notes

Pair with other dessert options for a fun dessert night. For variations, consider using coconut milk or honey, or adding mochi pieces.