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How to Make Pickle-Flavored Ice Cream

Never underestimate the potential of ice cream flavors - pickle-flavored ice cream is here to prove itself as a contender in the dessert world. The emergence of pickle-flavored ice cream has recently taken the culinary world by storm, introducing a unique blend of sweet and sour that challenges traditional taste boundaries.

This intriguing flavor combination is more than just an adventurous experiment. It's part of a broader trend in food innovation driven by creative collaborations and inspired by iconic pregnancy cravings. From Nightfood's "Pickles for Two" catering to pregnant women’s desires to Grillo's Pickles partnering with Boston’s favorite ice cream shop JP Licks during National Pickle Day, this new sensation is making waves. And now, you can learn how to make your own pickle-flavored ice cream at home—with your favorite pickle brine too!

 

Table of Contents:

  • The Rise of Pickle Flavored Ice Cream
  • Origin and Evolution of Combining Sweet and Sour Flavors
  • Where to Find Pickle-Flavored Ice Cream
  • Collaborations Fueling Innovation in the Food Industry
  • How To Make Your Own Homemade Pickle-Ice Cream
  • Recipe for No-Churn Pickle Ice Cream
  • FAQs in Relation to Pickle Flavored Ice Cream?
  • Conclusion

 

The Rise of Pickle Flavored Ice Cream

Close up of pickle ice cream in a cone

Photo credit: 97.5 NOW FM

In the constantly changing food landscape, it's no shock that unusual flavors are appearing in our beloved snacks. One is pickle-flavored ice cream. This unique blend has been gaining traction and acceptance among food enthusiasts, thanks to brands like Nightfood, Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co., Grillo's Pickles, and OwowCow.

 

Origin and Evolution of Combining Sweet and Sour Flavors

The world of gastronomy is a canvas for creativity, where chefs and food enthusiasts alike are constantly experimenting with flavor combinations. In recent years, the combination of sweet desserts and sour condiments has been reimagined in innovative ways, such as a briny pickle-flavored ice cream.

Origin Story Behind Pairing Sweet Desserts with Sour Condiments

In ancient times, people used to balance their meals by including both sweet and savory elements. This practice was seen across various cultures globally. For instance, the American tradition of serving apple pie with cheddar cheese or in Italy where balsamic vinegar is often drizzled over strawberries as dessert. These unique pairings create a delightful contrast between sweetness and acidity which tantalizes our taste buds.

 

Where to Find Pickle-Flavored Ice Cream

The pickle-flavored ice cream craze is taking the culinary world by storm. As more people embrace this unique flavor, it's becoming increasingly available in various locations across the country.

Nightfood's "Pickles for Two" Flavor Catering to Pregnant Women's Cravings

Nightfood, a sleep-friendly ice cream company, took a bold step by introducing a pickle-flavored ice cream called "Pickles for Two". The inspiration behind this flavor was the age-old stereotype of pregnant women craving pickles. The result? A sweet and tangy delight that satisfies not just expectant mothers but anyone with an adventurous palate.

The Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co.'s Distinctive Dessert Offering With Pickle Soft Serve

In New York City, the Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co. offers its own version of this peculiar dessert - a soft serve infused with pickle juice. It may sound strange at first but those who have tried it can attest to its surprisingly refreshing taste profile. This innovative offering has quickly become one of their signature dishes attracting locals and tourists alike.

Grillo's Pickles and OwowCow Joining the Pickle Ice Cream Craze

Grillo's Pickles and OwowCow have also jumped on the pickle ice cream bandwagon, offering their own unique takes on this unconventional flavor. Grillo's Pickles has a "Pickle Split" sundae that features pickle-flavored ice cream, while OwowCow has a "Pickle Me This" flavor that combines pickle juice with vanilla ice cream.

Available at Major Retailers

If you're eager to sample this unusual yet delightful treat, why not head down to your nearby grocery store? Major retailers such as Albertsons, Kroger, and Lowe's Foods have started stocking up on pickle-flavored ice cream due to its rising popularity among consumers. Whether you're planning a fun family dinner or hosting an adventurous tasting party with friends, these stores offer easy access to satisfy those curious taste buds.

Delivery Service by NYC-Based Restaurant

If you're in New York City or just visiting, don't miss out on trying the distinctive pickle soft serve from The Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co.. This popular eatery is known for their creative fusion dishes and desserts that blend Eastern flavors with Western favorites. Their delivery services make it convenient for locals and tourists alike to experience their unique offerings right at home.

Order Online

Beyond supermarkets and restaurants, several online platforms allow you to order this quirky treat directly to your doorstep. Websites like Goldbelly deliver nationwide, allowing everyone from coast-to-coast to get a taste of this trendsetting flavor sensation.

 

Collaborations Fueling Innovation in the Food Industry

Bunch of pickles

The food industry is constantly changing, and collaborations are playing a key role in driving new ideas and innovations. One such example is the collaboration between Grillo's Pickles, known for their fresh, crisp pickles based on a century-old family recipe, and J.P.Licks, an ice cream company renowned for its unique flavors.

Collaboration between Grillo's & JP Licks leading towards innovation during National Pickle Day

The idea of pickle-flavored ice cream may sound unusual to some, but it became a reality when Eddie Andre, director at Grillo's, partnered with J.P.Licks during National Pickle Day. This partnership resulted in creating an unexpected treat that delighted food enthusiasts around town. The flavor was not only innovative but also celebrated the essence of both brands - combining the sharpness from pickles with sweetness from the creamy base.

Use of century-old family recipe by Grillo's enhancing brand authenticity

A key factor contributing to this successful venture was Grillo's use of their 100-year-old family pickle recipe, which added depth and authenticity to this novel dessert offering. It served as a testament that traditional recipes can indeed blend seamlessly into modern culinary experiments when approached creatively.

This collaborative effort demonstrates how companies can push boundaries in taste exploration while staying true to their roots. Such partnerships are not just about creating new products; they're about telling stories through food - where tradition meets innovation resulting in delightful surprises like pickle-flavored ice cream.

 

Recipe for Homemade Pickle-Flavored Ice Cream

For those who enjoy bold flavors and a challenge in the kitchen, crafting your own pickle-flavored ice cream could be an exciting project. Combining the sharpness from pickles with sweetness from a creamy base might seem unusual, but it's what makes this treat so intriguing.

 

How to Make Pickle-Flavored Ice Cream
  1. Pickling Brine: Use your favorite pickle brine from your pickle jar of choice! Whether it’s bread n’ butter pickles or dill pickles, pick your poison. Or create your own simple pickling brine using vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices like dill or mustard seeds. Boil these ingredients together until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool before proceeding to the next step.
  2. Pickle Juice Ice Cream Base: In another bowl, mix heavy cream, milk, and granulated sugar until well combined. Now add your cooled pickling brine into this mixture gradually while stirring continuously.
  3. Cooking The Base: Cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly - usually takes about 10 minutes or so.
  4. Cool & Churn: Once done cooking, let the mixture cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker.
  5. Add Pickle Pieces: Last but not least, stir in some chopped-up dill pickles for that extra crunch.

This recipe is inspired by Massachusetts-based ice cream brand J.P.Licks when they collaborated with Boston-based company - Grillos' Pickles (source). They managed to create a flavor profile that was both unexpected yet delightful - proving once again how food innovation can lead to some truly delicious results.

 

Recipe for No-Churn Pickle Ice Cream

Pickled ice cream with pickle topping in a cone

Photo Credit: Delish.com 

If you want to try making pickle-flavored ice cream, but don’t want to buy an ice cream maker (or perform all the extra steps that come with it), try making custom pickle ice cream with a DIY ice cream mix like Hijinx. Simply blend and freeze your pickle juice with Hijinx and hot water for an easy, pickle ice cream that will impress friends and family.

Ingredients:

  • 1 packet Hijinx ice cream mix
  • 1 cup pickle brine
  • 1/2 cup hot water (or half & half for creamier results)

Recipe:

  1. Warm hot water in the microwave for 60 seconds, until hot.
  2. Blend on high with Hijinx mix and pickle brine until thoroughly combined.
  3. Let mixture sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Freeze in an airtight container for 3-6 hours. Thaw and enjoy!


If desired, you can add your own customizations to personalize your ice cream however you like. Add cream cheese for a tangy note, Tajin for a kick of spice, or peanut butter for your late night craving snack.

 

FAQs in Relation to Pickle Flavored Ice Cream

 

What are the benefits of pickle juice?

Pickle juice, the base of pickle ice, contains electrolytes that can help prevent muscle cramps and boost hydration.

Is pickle flavored ice cream a real thing?

Yes, it's an innovative flavor offered by brands like Nightfood, The Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co., and even available at major retailers like Albertsons. You can even make your own pickle ice cream!

What does a pickle ice cream sundae taste like?

The unique combination offers a balance between sweetness from the creamy vanilla base and tanginess from the infused dill-pickle flavor.

 

Conclusion

Have you ever tried pickle flavored ice cream? It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're feeling adventurous, give it a go!

If you’d like to try your own pickle ice cream with your favorite (or homemade) pickle juice, try making it with an ice cream maker or, even easier, with Hijinx ice cream mix! Using a blend-and-freeze mix is a low-stress, easy way to dive into ice cream making.

 

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