Olivia Taylor
A Match Made in Heaven: Bourbon and Vanilla Ice Cream
Just when you thought that you have experienced all the good things life offers, let’s give you an avenue to explore with an unusual yet delightful pairing: bourbon and vanilla ice cream. Now, before you scrunch your nose up and judge us, hear us out. The sweet creaminess of a vanilla ice cream combines with the oaked, rich character of bourbon to create a beautiful symphony of flavors on your taste bud. It’s all about finding the perfect bourbon. So, sit back and let’s dive into the world of bourbon and vanilla ice cream pairing.
Finding The Perfect Bourbon For Vanilla Ice Cream
Before we get into the pairings, it’s vital to grasp what makes a good bourbon. Bourbon, by nature, must be produced in America and have a grain mixture at least 51% corn. It also needs to be aged in a fresh oak barrel and cannot exceed 160 proof. However, beyond this, the variations in flavor profiles are broad and varied, ranging from sweet, light-bodied bourbons to full-bodied ones with strong flavors of oak, also referred to as ‘cask strength’ bourbons. Hence, each bourbon will give your ice cream a unique twist.
But, the magic of pairing bourbon with vanilla ice cream lies within bourbons that possess a darling undertone of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
Maker’s Mark
Starting with an absolute classic, Maker’s Mark is made predominantly from red winter wheat, which gives it an incredibly smooth and subtle flavor. This bourbon shines with notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla, which melds beautifully with the rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy it drizzled over your ice cream or simply have a small glass alongside…
Woodford Reserve
Renowned for its full-bodied, rich, and complex flavor profile, Woodford Reserve is another bourbon that doesn’t fail to impress when paired with vanilla ice cream. Its notes of dried fruit and sweet aromatics, vanilla, toasted nuts, and spice give way to a flavorful ice cream topping, making your dessert an exotic treat.
Going Beyond The Usual
Those are the classics, often cited as some of the best bourbons for pairing with food. However, bourbon’s distinctive taste has inspired a plethora of unique recipes and serving ideas that explore its full potential beyond a simple glass. Here are a few for you to try with your vanilla ice cream.
Homemade Bourbon Vanilla Ice Cream
Ever tried making your own bourbon ice cream at home? It’s easy and absolutely delish! All you need is a basic vanilla ice cream recipe, plus a good couple of glugs of your favorite bourbon – we recommend Bulleit for its high rye content and fragrant notes of oak and spice. The alcohol will lower the freezing point of the ice-cream, keeping it softer and more scoopable than your traditional homemade ice cream. It’s a win-win!
Bourbon Affogato
An affogato is an Italian classic, typically served with a shot of espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Swap the coffee shot with a generous serving of Elijah Craig Small Batch. Its signature warm spice and subtle smoke flavor will perfectly complement the creamy vanilla ice cream, resulting in a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Experiment and Enjoy
Ultimately, pairing bourbon with vanilla ice cream can seem like a daunting task, given the vast variety of both bourbon and ice cream brands available. However, with a bit of knowledge and a brave palate, you can create combinations that are not only unique but also incredibly delightful. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different bottles until you find your perfect ice cream companion. Enjoy!
