When the weather heats up (or you’re simply craving something unique), Lavender and Vanilla Ice Cream Rolls are the perfect dessert. They’re smooth, creamy, lightly floral, and finished with a classic vanilla sweetness that tastes elegant but still totally fun.
Unlike store-bought rolled ice cream, this homemade version lets you control the lavender strength, sweetness, and texture—so you get a balanced, dreamy flavor every time. Perfect for summer parties, special occasions, or whenever you want a dessert that looks impressive with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Makes 12 ice cream rolls (about 6 servings)
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup (150g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon vanilla + 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)
- 1–2 teaspoons culinary lavender (food-grade, not scented craft lavender)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1–2 drops purple food coloring (for a pretty pastel color)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, white chocolate shavings, berries, crushed cookies, sprinkles
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Infusion time: 10 minutes
- Freezing time: 2–3 hours (or until firm enough to roll)
- Total time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Infuse the Lavender
In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Add the culinary lavender, stir, and remove from heat. Let steep for 10 minutes.
Strain the milk through a fine mesh strainer to remove the lavender buds. Let the milk cool to room temperature (or chill for faster results).
Step 2: Mix the Ice Cream Base
In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, strained lavender milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
If using food coloring, add a drop or two and mix until you get a soft lavender shade.
Step 3: Freeze in a Thin Layer
Pour the mixture into a shallow pan (a metal 9×13-inch pan or rimmed baking sheet works best). You want a thin layer for easier rolling.
Freeze for 2–3 hours, or until firm but still slightly “scrapeable.”
Step 4: Make the Rolls
Remove the pan from the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 seconds (this helps it roll smoothly).
Using a sturdy spatula or bench scraper, scrape from one end in a steady motion to form rolls. Place rolls into bowls or cups.
Step 5: Serve
Top with whipped cream, berries, white chocolate curls, or crushed cookies. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with fresh blueberries + honey drizzle for a bright, floral combo.
- Add white chocolate chips or shavings for extra sweetness.
- Serve with shortbread cookies on the side (so good with lavender).
- Make a “fancy sundae” with whipped cream and edible flowers.
- For parties, set out a toppings bar and let everyone customize.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 rolls) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 24 grams |
| Sugars | 20 grams |
| Fiber | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 85 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Heavy cream gives the rolls their rich, silky texture.
- Lavender adds aroma and flavor without extra sugar.
- Sweetened condensed milk helps keep the ice cream creamy and less icy.
Tips for Perfect Ice Cream Rolls
- Use culinary lavender only—food-grade matters.
- Don’t overdo the lavender: start small (1 teaspoon) and increase only if needed.
- A metal pan freezes faster and helps create smoother rolls.
- If the base is too hard, let it sit 30–90 seconds before scraping.
- If it’s too soft, freeze for another 20–30 minutes and try again.
Variations to Try
- Lavender Honey Vanilla: Swap half the condensed milk with 2–3 tablespoons honey (adjust sweetness).
- Lavender Lemon: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a bright, fresh twist.
- Vanilla Bean Dream: Use vanilla bean paste for a stronger vanilla flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream + almond milk + coconut condensed milk (texture will be slightly different but still delicious).
- White Chocolate Lavender: Stir in melted white chocolate (cooled) for an extra creamy, candy-like finish.
These Lavender and Vanilla Ice Cream Rolls are a beautiful homemade dessert that feels both fun and elegant. With a creamy texture, gentle floral notes, and classic vanilla sweetness, they’re perfect for warm days, special gatherings, or anytime you want a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Keep them simple or load them with toppings—either way, you’ll get a smooth, fragrant, creamy roll every time.
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