Olive oil ice cream is a sophisticated dessert that blends the rich, fruity notes of olive oil with a creamy ice cream base. This gourmet treat, popularized by chefs and artisanal brands, offers a unique flavor profile. It’s perfect for those seeking an elegant twist on traditional ice cream.
The subtle, savory undertones of olive oil make it a versatile ingredient for both sweet and fruity recipes. It’s gaining popularity in home kitchens and upscale restaurants alike. Whether store-bought or homemade, it’s a dessert that impresses with minimal effort.
This guide explores the best olive oil ice cream recipes, top brands, and serving ideas. From choosing the right olive oil to creating creamy textures, you’ll find everything you need. Let’s dive into this luxurious, velvety treat for 2025!
Why Olive Oil Ice Cream Stands Out
Olive oil ice cream offers a smooth, velvety texture unlike traditional dairy-based desserts. The oil’s natural fat content enhances creaminess without overpowering sweetness. This creates a balanced, sophisticated flavor.
It’s a versatile dessert that pairs well with sweet or savory toppings. From sea salt to fresh fruit, olive oil ice cream adapts to various tastes. This makes it a favorite for creative cooks.
Health-conscious eaters appreciate olive oil’s heart-healthy fats. While still a treat, it can be made with less sugar than standard ice cream. This adds a slight nutritional edge.
Key Ingredients for Olive Oil Ice Cream
High-quality extra virgin olive oil is the star, adding fruity and peppery notes. Choose a mild, grassy oil for subtle flavor or a robust one for boldness. Brands like California Olive Ranch work well.
A creamy base, like whole milk and heavy cream, ensures smoothness. For dairy-free versions, coconut milk is a great substitute. Sweeteners like sugar or honey balance the oil’s savoriness.
Vanilla extract or citrus zest enhances the flavor. Egg yolks or cornstarch act as stabilizers for a custard-like texture. Fresh ingredients are key for the best results.
Top Olive Oil Ice Cream Brands
Several brands offer pre-made olive oil ice cream for convenience. Van Leeuwen’s Olive Oil Ice Cream, with Sicilian olive oil, is a creamy standout. It’s sold at Whole Foods for $6.99 per pint.
Salt & Straw’s Arbequina Olive Oil Ice Cream uses Oregon-grown oil for a grassy flavor. Priced at $8.99, it’s a premium choice available online. It earns a 4.5/5 rating on their site.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers a limited-edition Olive Oil Lemon Bar, blending citrus and oil. It’s $7.99 per pint and praised by Food & Wine. Check their website for availability.
What Is the Best Olive Oil Ice Cream
To answer the question, “What is the best olive oil ice cream?” Van Leeuwen’s Olive Oil Ice Cream is a top pick for its creamy texture and balanced flavor. With 240 calories per serving and Sicilian olive oil, it earns a 4.6/5 rating on Influenster, available at Whole Foods for $6.99 per pint.
Salt & Straw’s Arbequina Olive Oil Ice Cream is another favorite, using high-quality Oregon oil for a grassy, rich taste. Priced at $8.99, it’s lauded by Serious Eats for its unique profile. It’s available online or at their scoop shops.
For homemade enthusiasts, a recipe from Serious Eats blending extra virgin olive oil, milk, and lemon zest delivers a creamy, citrusy treat. It takes 30 minutes to prep and costs $5–$7 in ingredients, earning high praise for its simplicity and elegance.
Comparison of Olive Oil Ice Cream Options
Here’s a table comparing three olive oil ice cream options:
| Option | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Van Leeuwen | Sicilian olive oil, creamy, balanced | $6.99 (pint) |
| Salt & Straw | Arbequina oil, grassy, premium | $8.99 (pint) |
| Homemade Olive Oil | Customizable, lemon zest, budget-friendly | $5–$7 (ingredients) |
This table highlights the variety in olive oil ice cream. Van Leeuwen offers accessibility, Salt & Straw provides premium quality, and homemade is cost-effective. Choose based on convenience and taste.
Homemade Olive Oil Ice Cream Recipes
For a classic recipe, mix 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, ¾ cup sugar, and ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil. Add 4 egg yolks for a custard base, heat gently, then churn for 25–30 minutes. Freeze for 2 hours for a scoopable texture.
A no-churn version blends 2 cups whipped cream, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and ¼ cup olive oil. Fold in 1 teaspoon lemon zest, then freeze for 6 hours, stirring hourly. This yields about 1 quart of creamy ice cream.
For a fruity twist, add ½ cup pureed strawberries to the base. Blend with olive oil for a vibrant, summery flavor. Churn or freeze for a refreshing dessert.
Dairy-Free Olive Oil Ice Cream
Dairy-free olive oil ice cream uses coconut milk for creaminess. Blend 2 cans full-fat coconut milk, ¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup olive oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Churn for 20–25 minutes or freeze for 4–6 hours.
Almond milk works for a lighter texture. Mix 2 cups almond milk, ½ cup agave, and ¼ cup olive oil, then freeze in a loaf pan. Stir every 30 minutes for smoothness.
Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the oil’s flavor. Pair with vegan chocolate chips for texture. This is perfect for vegan or lactose-free diets.
Tips for Perfect Texture
Chill the ice cream base for 2–4 hours before churning. This ensures faster freezing and smaller ice crystals for a smooth texture. It’s essential for professional results.
Use high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Avoid overly bitter oils, as they can overpower the ice cream. A mild, fruity oil works best.
For no-churn recipes, stir every 30 minutes while freezing. This prevents icy textures and keeps the ice cream velvety. Use a shallow container for even freezing.
Serving Ideas for Olive Oil Ice Cream
Serve olive oil ice cream with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The salt enhances the oil’s fruity notes for a gourmet touch. Pair with fresh figs for elegance.
Drizzle with honey and crushed pistachios for a Mediterranean vibe. The sweet-nutty combo complements the ice cream’s richness. It’s perfect for dinner parties.
Blend into a milkshake with oat milk and a dash of orange zest. Serve in a chilled glass for a refreshing, citrusy drink. It’s ideal for warm days.
Storing Olive Oil Ice Cream
Store in an airtight container at 0°F to prevent freezer burn. Cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing. This keeps it fresh for 2–4 weeks.
Scoop only what you need to avoid repeated thawing. Refreezing can cause ice crystals, affecting texture. Small containers help with portion control.
Label containers with the freezing date. This ensures you enjoy the ice cream at its peak flavor. Homemade versions are best within a month.
Where to Buy Olive Oil Ice Cream and Ingredients
Whole Foods and Sprouts stock Van Leeuwen and Salt & Straw for $6.99–$8.99 per pint. Check store apps for sales, often dropping to $5.99. Instacart offers online delivery.
High-quality olive oil, like California Olive Ranch, is at Walmart or Target for $8–$12 per bottle. Choose extra virgin for the best flavor. Whole Foods carries organic options.
Amazon and Thrive Market sell ice cream makers like Cuisinart ($99.99) or Ninja CREAMi ($199.99). Sales can lower prices to $79.99. Check reviews on Serious Eats for reliability.
Olive Oil Ice Cream for Events
Olive oil ice cream is a sophisticated choice for gatherings. Serve in small bowls with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a chic dessert. It’s a conversation starter.
Create a dessert bar with Van Leeuwen’s Olive Oil Ice Cream. Offer toppings like fresh berries, honey, or crushed nuts. Guests can customize for a fun experience.
For elegant events, pair with shortbread cookies. The buttery cookies complement the ice cream’s richness. Serve in small portions for a refined touch.
Summary
Olive oil ice cream is a luxurious, creamy dessert with a unique, fruity flavor. Top brands like Van Leeuwen and Salt & Straw offer pre-made pints, while homemade recipes allow customization with dairy or vegan bases. Perfect for pairing with sea salt, honey, or fruit, it’s versatile for sundaes, shakes, or solo enjoyment. With the right ingredients and storage, this gourmet treat elevates any occasion in 2025. Enjoy its velvety richness at home or events!
FAQ
What is the best olive oil ice cream?
Van Leeuwen and Salt & Straw lead with creamy, flavorful pints at $6.99–$8.99. Homemade recipes with extra virgin olive oil and lemon zest are budget-friendly. Find them at Whole Foods or make your own for $5–$7.
Can I make dairy-free olive oil ice cream?
Yes, use coconut or almond milk with olive oil and sugar. Churn for 20–25 minutes or freeze for 4–6 hours. Add sea salt for enhanced flavor.
How do I make homemade olive oil ice cream?
Mix cream, milk, sugar, and ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, then churn for 25–30 minutes. For no-churn, blend with whipped cream and freeze for 6 hours. Add citrus zest for brightness.
Where can I buy olive oil ice cream?
Whole Foods and Sprouts sell Van Leeuwen and Salt & Straw for $6.99–$8.99. Ingredients like olive oil are at Walmart for $8–$12. Instacart offers online delivery.
What toppings go well with olive oil ice cream?
Flaky sea salt, honey, and fresh figs enhance the fruity flavor. Crushed pistachios or balsamic glaze add elegance. Pair with shortbread for a refined dessert.