Easy Ice Cream Dessert Recipe With Warm Roasted Figs And Hazelnuts
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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Breyers. All opinions are 100% mine.
Creamy cold ice cream, warm sticky roasted figs, crunchy toasted hazelnuts – you have found a dessert euphoria! This better-than-restaurant dessert is made in 10 minutes from start to finish – and will disappear in less than 60 seconds!
Why You’ll Love Easy Ice Cream Dessert With Warm Roasted Figs And Hazelnuts
- Quick and Easy: This dessert takes only 10 minutes to make, perfect for last-minute entertaining or a quick family treat. With minimal preparation, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality creation.
- Balanced Flavors: The warm, spiced figs pair beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream, and the toasted hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite!
- Seasonal and Fresh: Made with fresh, ripe figs, this dessert takes advantage of their short seasonal availability to deliver a unique and luxurious flavor.
- Impressively Simple: Despite its elegant presentation, this dessert is incredibly easy to prepare. Your guests will think you’re a gourmet chef!
- Customizable: Swap out the hazelnuts for your favorite nut or experiment with different spices for the figs. The recipe adapts effortlessly to suit your taste preferences.
Last week I took my 3 kids to a local ice cream shop and ended up spending a whopping $14 on their ice cream – that’s quite a lot of money for a little treat! However, yesterday I got the whole tub of Breyers ice cream that costs $3.99 and is enough to feed 10! I love Breyers ice cream – it tastes so smooth, so creamy, so delicious – even better than the one in an ice cream shop! We just had an awesome ice cream feast in our own backyard – so fun! Avoiding the crowds, saving money and enjoying the yummy cold ice cream on a hot summer day is a surefire way to put me in a fantastic mood!
Breyers is celebrating its 150th birthday this year! Breyers was founded in Philadelphia in 1866 when William A. Breyer hand-cranked his first gallon of ice cream, which featured fresh fruits and nuts, and sold it to his neighbors. Quality ice cream that people love – that’s a timeless favorite that is going strong for centuries! To celebrate this amazing milestone birthday, Breyers has partnered with celebrity chef Curtis Stone and his wife, actress Lindsay Price Stone, to create 12 recipes featuring Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream. The recipes are inspired by every month of the year, to give families a way to celebrate birthdays and special occasions with Breyers all year long.
I was super excited to try out the Spice Roasted Figs with Hazelnuts and Vanilla Ice Cream recipe, featuring Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream – yum! Breyers Natural Vanilla is made with fresh cream, milk and sugar – that’s why it tastes so awesome! Breyers only sources milk and cream from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones*, and all Breyers vanilla is real and from sustainably farmed, Rainforest Alliance Certified™ vanilla beans! No wonder why Breyers Natural Vanilla is America’s number 1 vanilla ice cream!
Ingredients For Easy Ice Cream Dessert With Warm Roasted Figs And Hazelnuts
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the figs during roasting.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor into the spice blend.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a slight spiciness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ground Cloves – Bring a rich, earthy note to the dish.
- Fresh Figs – The star of the dessert; choose ripe figs for the best flavor and texture.
- Breyers® Natural Vanilla Ice Cream – Creamy and rich, it balances the warm figs with coolness.
- Blanched Hazelnuts – Toasted and chopped for a nutty crunch to complement the other textures.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Easy Ice Cream Dessert With Warm Roasted Figs And Hazelnuts
- Broiler or Oven – Essential for caramelizing the figs quickly and evenly.
- Baking Sheet – Lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to hold the figs while broiling.
- Small Mixing Bowl – Perfect for combining the sugar and spices.
- Measuring Spoons – To ensure precise measurements of the sugar and spices.
- Spoon – For serving the ice cream and sprinkling the hazelnuts on top.
The season for fresh figs is very short, but when you see them in the store and are wondering what to do with them, just remember – they are amazing roasted over ice cream! Roasting figs is very easy and takes less than 5 minutes! All you need to do is cut the figs in half, dip in a sugar and spice mixture, and broil for 4 minutes – and you’ll get caramelized spiced figs, yum!
Here are the freshly roasted figs, straight out of the oven:
You can make these roasted figs ahead if you’d like and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, just warm the roasted figs in a microwave! This dessert is impressive enough to serve to company, everyone will think you are a fancy chef!
The recipe calls for blanched hazelnuts – blanched means skinless. Blanched hazelnuts are often available at the store under the name “White Hazelnuts” – they are white because their skin is removed :) To peel hazelnuts yourself, toast them in pre-heated 350F oven for 15 minutes, then remove them, put them in a dish towel and rub together – the skins will come right off. Or you can just serve them with a skin on – either way, they are delicious!
If your hazelnuts aren’t toasted already, you can toast them alongside the figs – the figs will go on the top shelf under the broiler, while the hazelnuts can go on the bottom shelf on a baking sheet – they’ll be ready in 4 minutes, just like the figs!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dessert in small, elegant bowls to showcase the caramelized figs and creamy ice cream.
- Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or a red wine for a luxurious end to a meal.
- Garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a light dusting of cinnamon for added visual appeal.
- Serve as part of a dessert platter alongside fresh blueberries or pastries like chocolate marshmallow for variety.
Tips For Success
- Choose Ripe Figs: Look for figs that are soft to the touch but not mushy. They should have a slight give when pressed and a sweet aroma. Overripe figs might become too soft during broiling, while unripe ones can lack flavor.
- Double Coat the Figs: For extra caramelization, dip the figs in the sugar-spice mixture twice. This creates a beautiful glaze and enhances the flavor.
- Watch Closely While Broiling: Sugar can caramelize quickly under the broiler and might burn if left unattended. Keep an eye on the figs to ensure they don’t overcook.
- Toast Hazelnuts for Extra Crunch: If your hazelnuts aren’t pre-toasted, you can do it alongside the figs. Place them on a baking sheet in the lower oven rack while broiling the figs. Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dessert as soon as it’s ready. The contrast of warm figs and cold ice cream is key to its appeal.
Variations And Substitutions
- Nut Options: If hazelnuts aren’t available, substitute with walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture. Pistachios can also add a beautiful pop of color.
- Spice Blends: Customize the spice mixture by adding nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. Experimenting with spices can make this dessert feel new every time you make it.
- Fruit Alternatives: If fresh figs are out of season, try using ripe pears, peaches, or plums instead. These fruits roast beautifully and pair well with the spice mixture and ice cream.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap out the Breyers® Natural Vanilla Ice Cream for a dairy-free alternative made from almond, coconut, or oat milk. This makes the recipe vegan-friendly while maintaining its creamy texture.
- Sweetener Swaps: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Maple syrup, in particular, pairs wonderfully with roasted fruits.
- Ice Cream Flavors: While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with other flavors like salted caramel, cinnamon, or even coffee ice cream for a twist.
- Presentation Upgrade: For a gourmet touch, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the figs before serving. The tangy sweetness complements the caramelized figs and creamy ice cream perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Figs: If you have leftover roasted figs, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Figs: Reheat the roasted figs in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warm. Be cautious not to overheat them, as they can become too soft.
- Ice Cream Storage: Store any remaining ice cream in the freezer in its original container, ensuring the lid is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Hazelnuts: Keep any unused toasted hazelnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried figs, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. To make them softer and juicier, soak the dried figs in warm water for about 15 minutes before roasting.
What can I use if I don’t have a broiler?
If a broiler is unavailable, you can roast the figs in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10 minutes or until they caramelize. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted figs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. The hazelnuts can also be toasted ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.
What other ice cream flavors pair well with roasted figs?
In addition to vanilla, flavors like honey, salted caramel, or cinnamon ice cream pair wonderfully with roasted figs. For a bold twist, try pairing them with coffee or dark chocolate ice cream.
How can I make this dessert vegan-friendly?
To make this dessert vegan, use a plant-based ice cream, such as almond or coconut milk varieties. Additionally, ensure the sugar and spices you use are vegan-certified.
Are there other ways to toast hazelnuts?
Yes, you can toast hazelnuts in a dry skillet on the stovetop over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. This is a quick alternative to oven toasting.
What can I do if my figs aren’t caramelizing?
If your figs aren’t caramelizing under the broiler, ensure they are evenly coated with the sugar-spice mixture. You can also sprinkle a little more sugar on top before roasting to encourage caramelization.
Other Easy Fig Recipes
Fresh Fig Salad with Burrata and Arugula: A vibrant and refreshing salad combining creamy burrata, sweet figs, and peppery arugula.
Crispy Air Fryer Fig Recipe: Sweet and caramelized figs with a slight crisp, made effortlessly in the air fryer.
Fresh Fig Jam Made at Home: A naturally sweet and flavorful homemade jam perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.
Simple Roasted Figs Recipe with Fresh Ingredients: An easy recipe for tender, caramelized figs bursting with natural sweetness.
Other Easy Hazelnut Recipes
Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Balls for a Healthy Snack: Bite-sized treats packed with rich chocolate flavor and the crunch of hazelnuts, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Recipe (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free): A creamy, indulgent spread made with wholesome ingredients, perfect for a healthier Nutella alternative.
Ice Cream Dessert Recipe With Roasted Figs And Hazelnuts
Ingredients
- 2 tbs. sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 8 ripe fresh figs
- 1 1/3 cups Breyers® Natural Vanilla Ice Cream
- 1/4 cup blanched hazelnuts toasted, coarsely chopped
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Broiler or oven
- Baking sheet lined with aluminum foil
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon for serving
Instructions
- Position broiler rack 6 inches from heat source and preheat broiler. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Mix sugar and spices in a small bowl. Dip figs one at a time, cut side down, in a sugar and spice mixture to coat. Then dip the figs a second time in sugar and spice mixture. Put dipped figs on a baking sheet cut side up, and distribute evenly so the figs are not touching. Put the figs in the oven. Broil figs, watching closely, for about 4 minutes, or until sugar melts and begins to caramelize and figs soften slightly and begin to ooze their juice.
- Divide roasted figs among 4 bowls. Spoon 1/3 cup of Breyers® Natural Vanilla Ice Cream into each bowl and sprinkle with hazelnuts.
More Dessert Recipes
- Homemade Berry Sorbet Without an Ice Cream Maker
- Easy Peanut Butter Dates Recipe for a Healthy Treat
- Fruit Cocktail Jello Dessert Recipe
*Disclaimer: Suppliers of other ingredients such as cookies, candies & sauces may not be able to make this pledge. The FDA states that no significant difference has been shown between dairy derived from rBST-treated and non-rBST treated cows.
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This was such a creative way to use fresh figs 😋
Thanks for the tip about toasting the hazelnuts. Is Breyers America’s #1 vanilla ice cream?