Floral Dandelion Ice Cream

Name: Floral Dandelion Ice Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup dandelion petals (thoroughly washed and dried); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I’ve always been captivated by the enchanting flavors of spring, and this Floral Dandelion Ice Cream perfectly captures that essence. When I decided to experiment with dandelions, I was surprised by their delicate floral notes that lend a unique twist to traditional ice cream. After several trials to balance sweetness and the earthy flavor of the flowers, I’ve created a delightful treat that’s not only refreshing but also a bit of a conversation starter. You won’t believe how a simple flower can elevate your dessert game!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:34:28.208Z

When I first decided to make Floral Dandelion Ice Cream, I was a bit skeptical about how well the dandelion flavor would translate into a dessert. However, after some testing and adjusting, I discovered that steeping the dandelion flowers in cream truly infused the ice cream with their subtle, sweet flavor. Pairing this base with a hint of lemon zest made all the difference, elevating the ice cream to a refreshing treat perfect for warmer days.

I learned that using freshly picked dandelion flowers adds not only flavor but also a touch of whimsy to the dish. By straining the mixture carefully to remove any bits of flower, I was able to achieve a smooth and creamy texture that everyone loved. It's a unique way to celebrate the arrival of spring right on your dessert plate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique floral flavor that surprises the senses
Creamy, smooth texture that's perfect for warm days
A wonderful conversation starter for gatherings

The Magic of Dandelion Petals

Dandelion petals bring a unique flavor profile to this ice cream, offering a delicate floral note that sets it apart from traditional options. When selecting dandelion flowers, ensure they are harvested from pesticide-free areas, as chemicals can impair both flavor and safety. The vibrant yellow hue of the petals not only enhances the visual appeal but also infuses the ice cream with a subtle sweetness that complements the creaminess of the dairy base.

One of the challenges you may face is achieving the right balance between the floral flavor and the sweetness of the sugar. If you find that the dandelion infusion is too strong, consider reducing the steeping time or using fewer petals in your next batch. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced floral taste, allow the petals to steep a bit longer but keep a close eye on the liquid to avoid bitterness.

Churning to Perfection

The churning process is critical for achieving the desired creamy texture in your Floral Dandelion Ice Cream. It introduces air into the mixture, resulting in a light and airy final product. Make sure to chill your mixture thoroughly before churning; this not only enhances the texture but also speeds up the freezing process. You should see the mixture start to thicken and turn soft-serve consistency, usually around 20-25 minutes in an ice cream maker.

Keep an eye on the ice cream during the churning process to avoid over-churning, which can lead to a grainy texture. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can still achieve a delightful result by placing the mixture in a shallow dish and stirring vigorously every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, allowing air to incorporate and the ice cream to firm up.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your ice cream has reached the desired firmness, store it in an airtight container to minimize freezer burn. For the best texture, consume the ice cream within a week or two. If longer storage is needed, consider layering parchment paper on top of the ice cream before sealing the container. This can help maintain the creamy texture and prevent icy crystals from forming.

For a stunning serving presentation, garnish your scoops with a few freshly picked dandelion petals to accentuate the flavors. You can also pair the ice cream with lemon shortbread cookies or a drizzle of honey to enhance the unique floral notes. This delightful ice cream not only tastes amazing but also serves as a beautiful addition to any spring dessert table.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start your Floral Dandelion Ice Cream:

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup dandelion petals (thoroughly washed and dried)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt

Make sure to source your dandelion petals from a clean area, free of pesticides and contaminants.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your unique ice cream:

Prepare the Dandelion Infusion

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and dandelion petals. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm, but not boiling. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.

Strain the Mixture

After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the dandelion petals. Press the petals lightly to extract as much liquid as possible.

Combine Ingredients

Return the strained mixture to the saucepan. Add sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved.

Chill the Mixture

Once everything is combined, let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.

Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Freeze and Serve

Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 2-4 hours. Scoop and serve, garnished with a few fresh dandelion petals if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Floral Dandelion Ice Cream on a warm day!

Pro Tips

For an even more vibrant color, you can mix in a little natural food coloring derived from beet juice or spirulina before churning. Also, be sure to use freshly picked petals for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make a dairy-free version of this Floral Dandelion Ice Cream, consider using coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and whole milk. Coconut milk will give your ice cream a rich, creamy texture and a hint of tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the dandelion. Just be sure to use unsweetened varieties to maintain the balance of flavors.

For those watching their sugar intake, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative such as agave nectar or a stevia blend. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners might affect the texture slightly, so you may need to adjust the chilling time or the quantity used to achieve the right consistency.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your ice cream turns out overly icy instead of creamy, this could be a result of not churning it long enough or not incorporating enough air. Ensure your mixture is cold enough before churning, and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific ice cream maker. If you find your machine is struggling, you can remove the mixture briefly and give it a gentle stir before continuing with the churning process.

Another common issue is the ice cream becoming too hard after freezing. If this happens, remove the ice cream from the freezer about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. To help it maintain a smoother texture when refreezing, be careful not to place the ice cream back in the freezer when warmer than room temperature; this can cause ice crystals to form.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flowers for this recipe?

Absolutely! Edible flowers like violets or lilacs can also be used to create different floral flavors.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a plant-based sweetener.

→ How can I store leftover ice cream?

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks for the best texture.

→ What are the health benefits of dandelions?

Dandelions are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, known to help with digestion and inflammation.