Indulging in ice cream doesn’t have to mean straying from a carnivore diet. This carnivore ice cream recipe is perfect for those special occasions when you crave a creamy, decadent treat without compromising your dietary goals.
With a base made from heavy cream and egg yolks, this recipe serves as a canvas for a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to rich coffee and tangy cheesecake. Let your creativity run wild and customize this recipe to suit your taste.
If your flavor needs a little boost, a tiny pinch of salt can work wonders.
How to Make Carnivore Ice Cream
- Yield: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes, plus time to churn
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large egg yolks
For Vanilla Ice Cream (Makes 1½ cups):
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Tiny pinch of kosher salt
For Coffee Ice Cream (Makes 1½ cups):
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules or instant espresso powder
- Tiny pinch of kosher salt
For Cheesecake Ice Cream (Makes 2 cups):
- 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) cream cheese
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Freshly whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine the ingredients for the base and the flavor you’re making in a blender. Blend until smooth. For cheesecake ice cream, ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated with no lumps.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 10–15 minutes.
- Serve immediately for a frozen yogurt-like consistency, or freeze for a firmer texture.
- Top with freshly whipped cream and enjoy! For leftovers, store in the freezer for up to a month. Let the ice cream soften at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Notes & Tips
- Using Raw Eggs: This recipe contains raw eggs. Opt for farm-fresh, pasteurized eggs from a trusted source to minimize any risk. If you’re concerned, pasteurized eggs are a great alternative.
- Coffee Flavor Tip: Always use instant coffee granules or espresso powder for the coffee flavor; they dissolve seamlessly, ensuring a smooth consistency. Regular coffee grounds won’t work. Decaf options are also available if you’re avoiding caffeine.
Customize & Experiment
This carnivore ice cream base is versatile, allowing you to create endless variations. Add flavors like strawberry puree, cocoa powder, or even a touch of honey for natural sweetness (if it aligns with your diet). If the mixture feels too rich, a pinch of salt can enhance the balance of flavors.
For a more animal-based twist, skip sweeteners entirely and let the cream and yolks shine.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this carnivore ice cream as a standalone dessert or pair it with a keto-friendly topping like sugar-free chocolate syrup. Fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy touch. If you’re making this for a gathering, offer multiple flavors so guests can mix and match.
Storage Advice
Leftover ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To maintain optimal texture, let it sit on the counter for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
The heavy cream and egg yolk base create a luxurious, creamy texture that rivals any traditional ice cream. This recipe is high in healthy fats, aligns with carnivore or keto diets, and is incredibly customizable.
Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla, bold coffee, or tangy cheesecake, this recipe has you covered for a guilt-free indulgence.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.