Easy Homemade Grape-Nuts Ice Cream: A Classic Dessert Recipe

Grape-Nuts ice cream is a rare find outside of New England, but now you can recreate this regional favorite in your own kitchen. The magic lies in the interplay between the luscious, homemade vanilla custard base and the wholesome crunch of Grape-Nuts cereal. As the cereal softens slightly in the ice cream, it imparts a subtle malted flavor that perfectly complements the creamy vanilla.

Not only does this ice cream taste incredible, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Grape-Nuts are loaded with whole grains, fiber, and an array of vitamins, making this treat a bit more virtuous than your average scoop. While we can’t claim it’s a health food, it’s certainly a delicious way to sneak in some extra nutrients!

For the ultimate Grape-Nuts ice cream experience, try serving each scoop with an extra sprinkle of cereal on top. This adds an extra layer of crunch and intensifies the cereal’s distinctive flavor. It’s a simple trick that elevates your dessert from great to unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 6 egg yolks
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 (4-inch) vanilla bean
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup Grape-Nuts cereal

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks and set aside. This step prepares the yolks for tempering, ensuring a smooth and creamy custard base.
2. Combine the cream, milk, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the cream mixture, along with a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until bubbles form along the edges of the pan. Remove from heat.
3. Carefully temper the egg yolks by slowly adding the heated cream mixture one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. This gradual process prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a silky-smooth custard.
4. Once all the cream mixture is incorporated, return the custard to the saucepan. Heat on medium-low, stirring constantly, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon or spatula. A clear line should remain when you run your finger through it. For precise results, the custard should register between 170°F and 175°F (77°C to 79°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to a grainy texture.
5. Strain the custard into a medium bowl set over an ice bath. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to help it chill evenly. After the initial cooling, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
6. Once chilled, churn the custard in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the last 5 minutes of churning, add the Grape-Nuts cereal. This timing allows the cereal to distribute evenly without becoming too soft.
7. Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming, then seal the container. Freeze for at least 3 hours or until fully set.
8. Serve your homemade Grape-Nuts ice cream in bowls or cones. For an extra special touch, sprinkle additional Grape-Nuts on top just before serving to maximize the delightful crunch factor.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the custard base.
• Experiment with different cereals like Grape-Nuts Flakes or a mixture of Grape-Nuts and your favorite granola for varied texture and flavor.
• Add a tablespoon of malted milk powder to the custard base to enhance the malty flavor of the Grape-Nuts.
• For a fun twist, swirl in a ribbon of caramel or maple syrup just before freezing the churned ice cream.
• Serve alongside a warm fruit crisp or cobbler for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store your Grape-Nuts ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. For the best texture and flavor, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping. This brief thawing time allows the ice cream to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop and enhancing its creamy mouthfeel.

Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or a unique dessert to impress your guests, this Grape-Nuts ice cream recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its creamy base and crunchy cereal bits create a perfect balance of textures, while the vanilla and malt flavors dance on your palate. Give it a try and bring a taste of New England to your home, no matter where you are!