Ingredients:

  • For the hemp milk:
    • 100ml shelled hemp seeds
    • 300ml water
    • (Optional) 1-2 dates or 1 tbsp maple syrup for sweetness
    • (Optional) 1/2 tsp vanilla powder
    • A pinch of salt
  • For the ice cream:
    • All the hemp milk you made above (approx. 300ml)
    • 200ml whipping cream (or coconut cream for a vegan version, place in the fridge overnight and use only the solid part)
    • 50ml caster sugar (or more/less to taste)
    • 1 tsp vanilla powder
    • 2-3 tbsp whole or lightly crushed hemp seeds (for extra texture)

Method:

  1. Make the hemp milk: Blend hemp seeds, water, optional sweetener, vanilla powder and salt in a high-speed blender until completely smooth. You don't need to strain it if you have a good blender, but if you want a smoother milk, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or a nut milk bag.
  2. Mix the ice cream base: In a bowl, whisk together the hemp milk, whipping cream (or the solid part of the coconut cream), sugar and vanilla powder until the sugar has dissolved.
  3. Add hemp seeds: Gently fold the extra hemp seeds into the ice cream base.
  4. Churn in an ice cream maker: Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until the ice cream has a creamy consistency.
  5. Freeze the ice cream: For a firmer consistency, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for a further at least 2-3 hours.

If you don't have an ice cream maker:

  1. Follow steps 1-3 above.
  2. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container with a lid.
  3. Place in the freezer and stir well with a fork or whisk approximately once an hour during the first 3-4 hours to prevent ice crystals.
  4. Let the ice cream freeze completely for at least 5-6 hours.

Tips:

  • Vegan version: Use coconut cream instead of whipping cream and make sure any sweetener is vegan (e.g. maple syrup).
  • More flavour: You can add a little lemon zest, cacao nibs or other flavourings you like.
  • Consistency: Hemp seeds contribute to a slightly "sandier" but also creamier consistency. If you want a completely smooth ice cream, you can blend all the hemp seeds into the milk for a really long time and strain it thoroughly if necessary.