Jeni’s Salty Caramel & Smoked Almond Ice Cream 🍨🥜 (Sweet & Smoky Crunch)
JojoM adapted from Jeni Britton Bauer
A smoky, nutty twist on Jeni Britton Bauer’s classic salty caramel ice cream—creamy, eggless base swirled with caramel and crunchy smoked almonds.
A Sweet & Smoky Scoop 🍨🥜
Jeni’s Salty Caramel & Smoked Almond Ice Cream is a decadent twist on the iconic salty caramel flavor. Imagine creamy, buttery caramel swirled into an eggless ice cream base, then studded with crunchy smoked almonds for a nutty, savory kick. The contrast of sweet, salty, and smoky makes every bite an irresistible adventure.
Why This Recipe Works ✨
Unlike traditional custard-based recipes, this ice cream uses Jeni Britton Bauer’s famous cream cheese and cornstarch base—meaning it’s eggless but still rich and ultra-creamy. The caramel brings depth and sweetness, while the smoked almonds add crunch and a hint of spice from paprika. It’s the perfect gourmet treat for summer evenings or when you want a scoop that feels restaurant-worthy at home.
The Secret to Smoked Almonds 🔥🥜
Making smoked almonds at home is simple but rewarding. Tossing almonds in olive oil and smoked paprika before toasting gives them a bold, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel. You can use store-bought smoked almonds, but the homemade version allows you to control the saltiness and smokiness.
Tips for Success 📝
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for your caramel to avoid burning.
- Chill the base quickly in an ice bath for the smoothest texture.
- Add almonds at the very end of churning to keep their crunch.
Serving Ideas 🍴
This salty-sweet ice cream is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- A drizzle of extra caramel sauce.
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- A warm slice of brownie or apple tart on the side.
Final Thoughts 💭
If you love bold flavors and crave texture in your desserts, this salty caramel with smoky almonds is the scoop for you. Every bite hits with creamy sweetness, nutty crunch, and a subtle smoky finish—a perfect balance that makes this recipe a true standout in the world of homemade ice creams.
Jeni’s Salty Caramel & Smoked Almond Ice Cream 🍨🥜 (Sweet & Smoky Crunch)
JojoM adapted from Jeni Britton BauerA smoky, nutty twist on Jeni Britton Bauer’s classic salty caramel ice cream—creamy, eggless base swirled with caramel and crunchy smoked almonds.
Chef's Tips
Use a heavy-bottomed pan for caramel to prevent burning.
Toss almonds with smoked paprika for an extra smoky kick.
Add almonds at the end of churning to keep them crunchy.
Tools Used
Medium Saucepan
Whisk
Baking Sheet
Ice Cream Maker
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Ingredients
Caramel Base
Smoked Almonds
Instructions
Make the Smoked Almonds
- 1
Toss almonds with olive oil and smoked paprika.
- 2
Spread on a baking sheet and toast at 175°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes.
- 3
Cool completely, then roughly chop.
Cook the Caramel Base
- 1
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook without stirring until amber caramel forms.
- 2
Carefully whisk in cream (mixture will bubble vigorously). Stir until smooth.
- 3
Add milk and corn syrup, bring to a rolling boil for 4 minutes.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp milk with cornstarch to form a slurry.
- 5
Remove caramel from heat, whisk in cornstarch slurry, return to boil for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
- 6
In another bowl, whisk cream cheese and salt until smooth, then whisk in hot caramel base gradually.
Churn & Assemble
- 1
Chill caramel mixture quickly in an ice bath for 30 minutes.
- 2
Churn in an ice cream maker until thick and creamy.
- 3
Fold in smoked almonds at the end.
- 4
Transfer to a container, press parchment against surface, and freeze at least 4 hours.
Comments & Reviews
Marco
5/28/2025
The smoky almonds take this caramel ice cream to the next level. Sweet, salty, and crunchy!
Isabel
7/15/2025
Loved the balance of creamy caramel and nutty crunch. Definitely restaurant-worthy.
Darren
9/9/2025
I added extra smoked paprika to the almonds for a bolder flavor—amazing!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1/2 cup (about 100 g)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
