There’s a certain charm to making ice cream at home, especially when you can indulge in flavors that whisk you away on a delightful journey. My discovery of Rum Raisin Ice Cream was serendipitous; it came about during a cozy evening spent reminiscing about my favorite childhood treats. The smooth creaminess paired with the warm notes of rum and the occasional chewy burst of golden raisins is nothing short of magical.
With summertime in full swing, the thought of savoring a scoop (or three!) of this lush homemade ice cream brings a smile to my face. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it the perfect weekend project — and trust me, your family and friends will be utterly smitten. So, if you’re tired of store-bought flavors that never quite hit the mark, grab your ice cream maker and let’s dive into this creamy, boozy treat that’s sure to elevate any gathering or quiet night in. Get ready to make some sweet memories!
Why is Rum Raisin Ice Cream so special?
Decadent flavors blend perfectly with the smooth base, giving you a taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Childhood nostalgia comes flooding back with each scoop, transporting you to carefree summer days. Easy to make, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without a lot of fuss. Plus, versatility is key—enjoy it as is or pair it with warm desserts for an indulgent twist. If you’re craving more delightful frozen treats, don’t miss our homemade sorbet recipes!
Rum Raisin Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Sweet Syrup
• ½ cup sugar – balances the flavors beautifully.
• ½ cup water – helps dissolve the sugar.
• 2 tablespoons golden rum – infuses a rich, warm flavor.
• ¾ cup golden raisins – provides a chewy texture and sweetness.
For the Cream Base
• 2 cups whole milk – ensures a rich and creamy texture.
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch – thickens the mixture for a perfect consistency.
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature – adds a delightful creaminess to the ice cream.
• 1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream – brings richness and smoothness to your Rum Raisin Ice Cream.
• ½ cup sugar – enhances sweetness for a delightful treat.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup – prevents ice crystals and keeps the ice cream smooth.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt – elevates the flavors significantly.
• ¼ cup golden rum – infuses additional depth of flavor to the ice cream.
Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, get ready to create a magical dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Rum Raisin Ice Cream
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Soak the raisins: Begin by placing the golden raisins in a small bowl and setting them aside to soak up the sweetness of the rum.
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Prepare the rum syrup: Combine the sugar, water, and golden rum in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour the rum syrup over the raisins and let them rest until the mixture cools to room temperature. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Make the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the whole milk. Stir until a smooth slurry forms, setting it aside for later.
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Beat the cream cheese: In a mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and use a hand mixer to beat it until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
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Cook the cream base: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining whole milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, corn syrup, and sea salt. Stir this mixture together over medium-high heat until it comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Thicken the mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Return the pan to the heat and bring it back to a boil, stirring constantly. Let it boil for one minute until it thickens nicely.
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Incorporate the cream cheese: Gradually beat about ¼ cup of the warm cream mixture into the bowl with the cream cheese, mixing until smooth without any lumps. Continue adding more cream until fully combined and the mixture is creamy.
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Add the rum: Stir in the additional ¼ cup of golden rum. Allow the ice cream base to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to enhance the flavors.
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Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions for a deliciously creamy consistency.
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Drain the raisins: As the ice cream churns, transfer the soaked raisins to a fine mesh sieve to drain away any excess syrup, ensuring the texture remains perfect.
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Mix in the raisins: When the ice cream is about 2 minutes away from finishing churning, add the drained raisins and churn until they are well incorporated throughout the creamy base.
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Freeze the ice cream: Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a suitable storage container. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight to set the perfect scoopable texture.
Optional: Serve with an extra drizzle of rum for a delightful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Rum Raisin Ice Cream
Fridge: Store Rum Raisin Ice Cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the ice cream in the freezer, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent ice crystals. It can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping to return its creamy texture. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Rum Raisin Ice Cream?
Transform your dessert experience with delightful pairings that elevate every delightful scoop.
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Warm Apple Pie: The spices and warmth of apple pie perfectly contrast the creamy, chilled ice cream, creating a comforting dessert duo.
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Toasted Almonds: The crunchy texture and nutty flavor of toasted almonds add a delightful contrast to the smooth richness of the ice cream.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries brings a burst of juicy acidity that brightens the dessert and enhances its sweetness. Each bite offers a refreshing balance.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the ice cream for a rich and indulgent treat that tantalizes the taste buds with every swirl.
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Caramel Drizzle: A caramel drizzle adds a luscious sweetness that complements the rum flavors beautifully, taking your dessert to a new level of indulgence.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that lightens the richness of the dessert, making each scoop feel more invigorating.
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Spiced Carrot Cake: The comforting spices of a spiced carrot cake complement the warm notes of rum, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for gatherings.
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Coffee or Espresso: Serve alongside a bold cup of coffee or espresso to contrast the sweetness in a delightful after-meal experience that awakens the palate.
Make Ahead Options
These Rum Raisin Ice Cream preparations are perfect for those busy weeks when you still want a homemade treat! You can soak the raisins in the rum syrup up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to plump up and infuse with flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the ice cream base and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before churning; this ensures the flavors deepen beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply churn the chilled base in your ice cream maker and add the drained raisins in the last few minutes of churning. This way, you’ll have a luscious, creamy dessert with minimal effort, ready to enjoy any time!
Tips for the Best Rum Raisin Ice Cream
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Soak the Raisins: Allow the golden raisins to soak in the rum syrup overnight for the richest flavor. Rushed soaking can lead to underwhelming taste.
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Smooth Cream Cheese: It’s crucial to beat the cream cheese until completely smooth before combining it with the warm mixture. This ensures a creamy texture in your Rum Raisin Ice Cream without any lumps.
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Don’t Skip the Corn Syrup: Adding light corn syrup may seem optional, but it’s essential for preventing ice crystal formation. This keeps your ice cream silky and scoopable.
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Chill the Base: Patience pays off! Allowing the ice cream base to chill well enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step, as it leads to a more luxurious dessert.
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Incorporate Raisins Later: Add the soaked raisins just a few minutes before the churning is complete. This allows them to distribute evenly without becoming mush.
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Freezing Time Matters: Let your ice cream sit in the freezer for at least two hours after churning. This helps it reach the optimal texture and flavor before serving.
Rum Raisin Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to take creative liberties with your delicious creation—each twist brings its own charm to this beloved homemade treat!
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Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream base for a cozy, aromatic touch. The warm spices harmonize beautifully with the rum and raisins.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. The nuts will add a lovely texture and elevate the flavor profile.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk and coconut cream for a tropical twist that stays creamy and rich.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips or swirl in some fudge to satisfy the chocolate craving. The combination of chocolate and rum is simply irresistible!
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Fruit Fusion: Swap out the golden raisins for dried cherries or cranberries for a lovely tart contrast. Their vibrant flavor will keep things exciting!
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Extra Boozy: For an adult twist, add an extra splash of rum to the mixture before churning. Just be careful, as a little goes a long way!
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle in homemade or store-bought caramel during the last few minutes of churning for a luscious sweet surprise in every scoop.
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Vegan Option: Use almond milk and cashew cream in place of dairy products, and make sure the sugar is vegan-friendly. A delightful option for plant-based eaters!
Each variation is a delightful journey of flavors and textures, making your Rum Raisin Ice Cream uniquely yours!
Rum Raisin Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of raisins should I use for Rum Raisin Ice Cream?
I recommend using golden raisins for their sweet flavor and chewy texture, which pair beautifully with the rich rum in the ice cream. They soak up the rum syrup exceptionally well, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.
How do I store leftover Rum Raisin Ice Cream?
To enjoy your homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream for as long as possible, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent ice crystals from forming. It can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, but trust me, it’ll be hard to resist eating it sooner!
Can I freeze Rum Raisin Ice Cream for longer than 2 weeks?
Absolutely! While I recommend consuming it within 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use a well-sealed, airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping.
What can I do if my ice cream turns out icy or hard?
If your Rum Raisin Ice Cream is icy, it may be due to not using enough corn syrup, which helps prevent ice crystals. Make sure you mix in the corn syrup and allow the base to chill thoroughly before churning. If it’s already frozen hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving; this will help soften it for easy scooping.
Is Rum Raisin Ice Cream safe for those with dietary restrictions?
This recipe contains dairy and alcohol, so it may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those avoiding alcohol. You can experiment with dairy alternatives, like coconut cream, but remember this will change the flavor slightly. Always check the ingredient labels if allergies are a concern or consult with a healthcare professional regarding safe consumption.
Can I skip the soaking time for the raisins?
While you can technically skip it, I really encourage you not to! Soaking the raisins in rum syrup at least for 2 hours—ideally overnight—lets them absorb plenty of flavor, making them chewy and delicious in each bite of Rum Raisin Ice Cream. This step truly transforms the final dessert!
Creamy Rum Raisin Ice Cream That Beats Store-Bought Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the raisins in a small bowl and set aside to soak up the sweetness of the rum.
- Combine the sugar, water, and golden rum in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour the rum syrup over the raisins and let cool to room temperature. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the whole milk to make a slurry.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, corn syrup, and sea salt. Stir over medium-high heat until it comes to a gentle boil, allowing it to boil for 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Return to heat and bring back to a boil, whisking continuously for one minute until thickened.
- Gradually beat about ¼ cup of the warm cream mixture into the cream cheese until smooth. Add more cream until fully combined.
- Stir in the additional ¼ cup of golden rum and allow to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Pour the chilled ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Transfer the soaked raisins to a fine mesh sieve to drain excess syrup.
- When the ice cream is about 2 minutes from finishing, add the drained raisins and churn until well incorporated.
- Transfer the ice cream to a storage container and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.