Hello, dessert explorers and kitchen adventurers! At Mangoes and Palm Trees, we’re thrilled to bring you flavors from our global travels. Today, we’re sharing our Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe, a luxurious treat born from a sun-soaked trip to Hawaii. Picture this: Oliver scooping fresh Hawaiian sea salt from the shores while Natalia and Victor haggle for palm sugar at a local market—our family’s love for food and culture shines in every bite.
This isn’t just ice cream—it’s a tropical escape in a bowl. The subtle savoriness of Hawaiian sea salt dances with the deep, caramel-like sweetness of palm sugar, creating a dessert unlike anything you’ve tasted. Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or a curious beginner, this recipe is your ticket to a gourmet masterpiece.
For more on Hawaiian flavors, check out Hawaiian Cuisine on Wikipedia. Ready to dive into this adventure? Let’s get churning!
Why This Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe?
What makes this Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe special? It’s the perfect harmony of rich, creamy custard with the unique twist of Hawaiian sea salt and palm sugar. This isn’t your average dessert—it’s a flavor journey inspired by the islands, easy to make, and endlessly customizable for your sunny kitchen.
We fell in love with this combo while exploring Hawaii’s vibrant food scene. It’s now a family favorite, blending our passion for adventure with our obsession for extraordinary eats.
Hawaiian Sea Salt: A Taste of the Pacific
Known as Pa‘akai, Hawaiian sea salt is harvested naturally from Pacific waters, packed with minerals that give it an earthy, slightly smoky edge. Unlike plain table salt, it elevates the caramel notes in this ice cream, making every spoonful a sophisticated delight. Learn more about its origins here.
Palm Sugar: Caramel with Soul
Palm sugar, tapped from coconut or Palmyra trees, is an unrefined gem with a rustic sweetness. Think caramel, honey, and toasted nuts all in one—it’s the heart of this Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe. We discovered its magic in a Hawaiian market, and it’s been a game-changer ever since. Explore its story here.
Ingredients for Your Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tropical treat:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups | For a rich, creamy base |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | Balances the richness |
| Unrefined Palm Sugar | ¾ cup + 2 tbsp (150g) | Look for it in Asian markets |
| Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil | 2 tsp | Enhances tropical vibes |
| Hawaiian Sea Salt | ¼ tsp | Coarse or fine, authentic is best |
| Large Egg Yolks | 6 | For a silky custard |
How To Make Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream
Step 1: Crafting the Custard Base
- Heat the cream and milk in a double boiler over simmering water—don’t let it touch the water.
- Whisk in ¾ cup palm sugar until dissolved, creating a sweet, golden base.
- Stir in coconut oil and Hawaiian sea salt, heating until steam rises but not boiling.
- Set aside to cool slightly while you prep the next step.
Step 2: Perfecting the Consistency
- In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining 2 tbsp palm sugar until pale and creamy.
- Slowly temper the eggs by adding half the hot dairy mix, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
- Pour the tempered eggs back into the dairy, cooking over medium heat until it thickens to coat a spoon.
- Cool in an ice bath for 3–5 minutes, stirring, then refrigerate overnight.
Step 3: Churning to Bliss
- Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn until it’s soft-serve smooth.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze overnight for a firm, scoopable texture.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Hawaiian sea salt or a drizzle of caramel—pure paradise!
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe with these ideas:
- Tropical Twist: Pair with grilled pineapple or mango slices from our mango recipes.
- Crunchy Contrast: Top with toasted coconut or crushed cookies.
- Decadent Drizzle: Add a homemade salted caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Variations to Try
Make this recipe your own with these adventurous twists:
- Spicy Kick: Infuse the custard with a pinch of cayenne for a Hawaiian heat wave.
- Nutty Bliss: Swirl in macadamia nut butter for island richness.
- Coffee Boost: Add a shot of espresso to the custard for a morning pick-me-up.
- Fruit Swirl: Mix in passion fruit puree for a tangy tropical burst.
Tips and Tricks for Ice Cream Perfection
- Quality Matters: Use authentic Hawaiian sea salt and fresh palm sugar for the best flavor.
- Chill Fast: An ice bath keeps the custard smooth—don’t skip it!
- Churn Smart: Follow your ice cream maker’s guide to avoid overchurning.
- Storage Savvy: Keep it airtight in the freezer for up to a month—check Healthline’s tips.
Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
Where Can I Buy Hawaiian Sea Salt?
Look for it at specialty food stores, online, or Hawaiian markets—its mineral-rich taste is worth it!
Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of Palm Sugar?
Yes, in a pinch, but you’ll miss the deep, nutty notes palm sugar brings to this recipe.
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last?
Stored in an airtight container, it’s good for up to a month in the freezer.
Can I Make It Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! Freeze in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until creamy—about 3–4 hours.
What If My Custard Curdles?
Strain it through a fine sieve and blend to smooth it out—no one will know!
Can I Add Mix-Ins?
Yes! Try chocolate chips or toasted coconut during the last few minutes of churning.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Recipe is more than a dessert—it’s a tropical adventure crafted from our family’s Hawaiian journey. With its rich caramel depth and salty island kiss, it’s perfect for summer days or cozy nights. Explore more island-inspired treats like our Papalani Gelato or Vegan Apple Cake.
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