Save This black sesame ice cream is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves creamy desserts with a nutty twist. Inspired by Japanese flavors, it features homemade roasted black sesame paste, a custardy base, and a playful finishing touch with candy eyes. Every scoop is rich and deeply aromatic, making it a dessert that stands out at parties and family gatherings.
My family first discovered black sesame ice cream at a local Japanese bakery, and my kids always beg for the version with candy eyes. The playful look is a hit with both children and adults, and the taste transforms any occasion into something special.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: delivers the ice cream’s signature creamy texture Choose the freshest whole milk you can for best results
- Granulated sugar: sweetens and helps achieve a smooth mouthfeel Make sure the sugar dissolves completely
- Heavy cream: ups the richness and body For ultra creaminess pick a quality brand with a high fat content
- Egg yolks: create a custard base resulting in a decadent scoop Opt for pasture raised or farm fresh eggs whenever possible
- Salt: sharpens flavors Use just a pinch to balance the sweetness
- Black sesame seeds: bring a deep roasted nuttiness Always select seeds that are matte and have a fresh earthy smell
- Honey: adds floral notes and stickiness Preferably use a mild honey so it does not overpower the sesame
- Water: loosens the sesame paste for even blending
- Candy eyes: for decorating These can be store bought or homemade Just be sure to check allergen info if serving guests
Instructions
- Toast the Sesame Seeds:
- Gently heat black sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat Stir constantly for two or three minutes until they become aromatic and start to pop Allow them to cool fully This step coaxes out their oils and enhances nuttiness
- Make the Sesame Paste:
- Pour the cooled seeds into a food processor or spice grinder Blend until they form a very fine powder Add honey and water then process again until you have a smooth glossy paste Set aside and take a moment to appreciate the color transformation
- Heat the Milk Mixture:
- Combine whole milk granulated sugar and salt in a medium saucepan Over medium heat warm the mixture just until it begins to steam but not boil Stir to dissolve the sugar completely
- Temper the Egg Yolks:
- In a separate mixing bowl whisk the egg yolks well Slowly pour half the hot milk over the yolks whisking nonstop to prevent scrambling This ensures gentle cooking and a smooth custard
- Thicken the Custard:
- Return the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk Lower the heat Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon You are looking for about one hundred seventy degrees if using a thermometer Patience is key for silkiness
- Strain and Combine:
- Pour the hot custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to catch any curdled egg bits Stir in the heavy cream and black sesame paste Whisk until everything is fully incorporated and the color is even
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours or until thoroughly chilled This is essential for the ice cream to churn properly later
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the cold mixture into your ice cream maker Churn as directed by the manufacturer until thickened and creamy It should look like soft serve when ready
- Freeze Until Firm:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer safe container Smooth the top Press parchment paper or plastic wrap against the surface and freeze for at least two hours so it firms up into perfect scoops
- Decorate and Serve:
- Once frozen scoop the ice cream into balls and place on serving dishes Gently press two candy eyes onto each scoop for a whimsical look Serve right away and watch the smiles appear
Save I am always amazed by the inky color and intensity of freshly homemade black sesame paste It is what sets this dessert apart and reminds me of sunny afternoons toasting seeds with my youngest who loves to stir the pot
Storage Tips
Store any leftover ice cream in a sealed freezer container with parchment or waxed paper pressed directly to the surface This keeps ice crystals from forming When ready to serve let the container sit at room temperature for five minutes before scooping
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are short on time high quality store bought black sesame paste works in place of homemade Almond or sunflower seed butter can give a different flavor twist Oat milk and coconut milk also work for a dairy free substitute but texture may be less creamy
Serving Suggestions
This ice cream is delicious on its own or served with crispy sesame wafers or a matcha cookie For a grown up dessert drizzle with extra honey or warm chocolate sauce My favorite is to serve mini cones at a kids party for extra fun
Cultural Context
Black sesame desserts have a long history in East Asian cuisines where the seeds are prized for their earthy richness Their use in ice cream is a modern fusion twist that shows how Japanese treats have found a place in the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide
Seasonal Adaptations
Three helpful notes Use local honey during spring and summer for max floral flavor In autumn and winter add a pinch of ground ginger for extra warmth Store extra sesame paste in the fridge for up to a week and stir it into oatmeal or smoothies
Success Stories
One of my proudest kitchen moments was serving this at our annual Halloween party Watching friends marvel at the playful candy eyes and deep flavor made every step worth it Even people unfamiliar with Japanese treats wanted seconds
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make a double batch and split into single serve freezer containers Add candy eyes only upon serving for best texture This dessert is perfect for prepping ahead of parties or gatherings
Save Enjoy every creamy, aromatic scoop and celebrate the playful surprise with candy eyes for a dessert that delights guests of any age.
Kitchen Questions
- → How is the black sesame flavor achieved?
Roasted seeds are ground and blended with honey to create a rich, aromatic paste, infusing the dessert with nutty notes.
- → Can I use store-bought black sesame paste?
Yes, store-bought paste is convenient and adds deeper flavor. Look for neri goma at Asian markets.
- → Is an ice cream maker required?
An ice cream maker ensures smooth, creamy texture, but manual mixing with freezing intervals can also be attempted.
- → What occasions suit this treat?
Its playful candy eye decoration makes it ideal for children’s events or themed parties such as Halloween.
- → Are any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The dessert is vegetarian and gluten-free. Always check candy eye ingredients for extra allergens.
- → Can I adjust sweetness?
Sweetness can be varied by using more or less honey or sugar, based on personal taste preferences.