Rich, silky, and quietly luxurious, this olive oil ice cream turns simple ingredients into something unexpectedly special. Della Terra Lemon Olive Oil adds a soft citrus brightness and velvety texture, creating a smooth frozen dessert that feels both refreshing and indulgent. For an extra layer of flavour, finish with a drizzle of Sicilian Lemon, Coconut White, or a berry dark balsamic just before serving.

Blood Orange or Lime Olive Oil also work beautifully here if you’d like to change the citrus profile.

Prep: 20 minutes
Chill: At least 6 hours or overnight
Makes: About 1 litre


Ingredients

  • ¾ cup 35% cream
  • ¼ cup water
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • Pinch salt
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup Della Terra Lemon Olive Oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium-low, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture is very hot but not bubbling.
  2. In a small bowl, beat egg yolks.
  3. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking to temper them.
  4. While whisking constantly, pour the warmed egg yolks back into the saucepan. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and scraping the bottom of the pan, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This can take 5–15 minutes.
  6. Transfer custard to a heatproof container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  7. Once fully chilled, stir in Lemon Olive Oil and lemon zest, if using.
  8. Churn according to your ice cream maker’s manufacturer instructions.