Homemade DAZS Ice Cream Rum Raisin Cup No GMO Ingredients No rBST Gluten Free Recipe: A Creamier, Healthier Twist on the Classic Favorite

Category: Ice Cream

Introduction

Haagen-Dazs, a beloved ice cream brand founded in 1961 by Reuben Mattus, is renowned for its rich, creamy textures and bold flavors. The Rum Raisin Ice Cream Cup, a fan favorite, combines the sweetness of plump raisins with the depth of rum in a velvety ice cream base. While store-bought options are convenient, making it at home allows for customization, better nutritional control, and the satisfaction of crafting something truly special. This recipe recreates the iconic flavor using non-GMO, rBST-free, and gluten-free ingredients, ensuring it’s not only delicious but also aligns with modern dietary preferences.

Why make it at home? For starters, homemade ice cream can be made with fewer additives and preservatives, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner, healthier version of your favorite treat. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness, the intensity of the rum flavor, and even the size of the raisins to your liking. It’s also cost-effective and fun to make, especially if you’re experimenting with unique flavors or hosting a gathering.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried Haagen-Dazs Rum Raisin Ice Cream. It was during a summer visit to my grandparents, and my grandfather, a lover of all things sweet and boozy, brought home a few cups. The combination of the creamy texture, the chewy raisins, and the subtle rum flavor was magical. It became a special treat we’d share together on hot afternoons. When I decided to recreate it at home, I wanted to capture that same magic but with ingredients I could feel good about. After several trials (and a few happy accidents), I landed on this recipe that not only mirrors the original but improves upon it with healthier, more sustainable ingredients.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:0 minutes (churning time: 20-30 minutes)
• **Total Time:40-50 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings (depending on cup size)

Ingredients

Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups (475ml) heavy cream (non-GMO, rBST-free)
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (non-GMO, rBST-free)
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or 1/3 cup natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup)
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract

Rum Infusion:

• 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml) dark rum (optional, or use rum extract for an alcohol-free version)
• 1 tsp (5g) high-quality rum extract (alcohol-free)

Raisin Component:

• 1 cup (120g) raisins (preferably organic, unsulphured)
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for coating raisins)
• 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar (optional, for soaking raisins)

Instructions

• Soak the Raisins:

• In a small bowl, combine raisins, rum (if using), rum extract, and brown sugar (if using). Stir well and let soak for at least 30 minutes to allow the raisins to absorb the flavors.

• Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

• In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just warm (do not boil).

  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly.

• Churn the Ice Cream:

• Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-30 minutes).

  • While the ice cream is churning, prepare the raisins by draining any excess liquid and, if desired, rolling them in unsweetened shredded coconut for a textured coating.

• Combine Ice Cream and Raisins:

• Once the ice cream is nearly fully churned, add the soaked raisins and continue to churn until they are evenly distributed.

• Freeze and Set:

• Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 2 hours to set.

• Scoop and Serve:

• Once set, scoop the ice cream into individual cups or cones and enjoy immediately. For a more authentic experience, top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Variations

Low-Sugar Version:

• Replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the amount to your taste, as natural sweeteners can be more potent.

Vegan Version:

• Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and whole milk with a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk). Use a vegan-friendly sweetener and ensure the rum extract is alcohol-free.

Spicy Version:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper to the ice cream base for a surprising kick.

Pro Tips

• Temper the Base: Always chill the ice cream base thoroughly before churning. This ensures a smoother texture and better flavor development.
• Quality Matters: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially the vanilla extract and rum extract, as they significantly impact the final flavor.
• Soak Raisins Longer: For an even more intense flavor, let the raisins soak in the rum mixture for several hours or overnight before adding them to the ice cream.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

  • Yes! Simply pour the chilled base into a freezer-safe container, cover it, and freeze for about 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until the desired consistency is reached.

• What if I don’t have rum extract?

  • You can omit it or substitute it with a small amount of dark rum (if alcohol is acceptable in your diet).

• Can I use fresh raisins?

  • Fresh raisins are fine, but they may not absorb the flavors as well as dried ones. Soaking them longer can help.

• How long does it keep in the freezer?

  • Homemade ice cream typically keeps well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider using an ice cream stabilizer or ensuring the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn.

• Can I scale this recipe?

  • Absolutely! Double or halve the ingredients as needed. Keep in mind that larger batches may require longer churning times.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Cup: Serve as is in small cups for a nostalgic treat.
• Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar with toppings like caramel sauce, fresh fruit, whipped cream, and chopped nuts.
• Boozy Float: Scoop the ice cream into a glass of ginger ale or sparkling water for a fun twist.
• Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for cakes, brownies, or waffles.

Conclusion

This homemade version of DAZS Ice Cream Rum Raisin Cup captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier, more customizable alternative. With fewer additives, no GMOs, and the option to reduce sugar, you can enjoy this indulgent treat guilt-free. Plus, the process of making it at home is a fun and rewarding experience that’s sure to impress friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the creamiest, most flavorful homemade ice cream you’ve ever made!