How to Add Ribbons to Your Hard Scoop Ice Cream
Ribbons, swirls, ripples, marbling, whatever you call them, they're perfect for hard scoop ice cream! Not only does this add visual interest to your ice cream, it adds new, fun, flavors. There are a few ways to add ribbons to your hard scoop ice cream. We're here to explore the main three ways to do this.
The Squeeze Method
This method works best if you have a batch freezer that extrudes your ice cream directly into the container.
What You'll Need:
- 32 oz wide mouth squeeze bottle (can cut the opening to it's even larger)
- Whatever you're using as a ribbon, warmed (fudge, caramel, fruit swirl, etc)
How to Do it:
As your ice cream is being extruded from your batch freezer, use a unique ice cream scooper to scoop it into your container. While scooping, simultaneously squeeze a steady stream of your warmed swirl into the ice cream using the squeeze bottle. Squeeze it in random motions around your ice cream as it pours into your container. This will effectively add a ribbon to a full batch of hard scoop ice cream.
The Drag Method
This method works best for those who aren't as comfortable squeezing their ribbon as the ice cream is extruded.
What You'll Need:
- 32 oz wide mouth squeeze bottle
- Bamboo skewers
- Whatever you're using as a ribbon, warmed (fudge, caramel, fruit swirl, etc)
How to Do it:
Start by extruding a small amount of ice cream into your container. Make sure to cover the bottom of it. Squeeze a random pattern of warmed swirl on the top of this layer. Swirl it around with your bamboo skewer. Repeat until your container is full and you've used your entire squeeze bottle.
The Folding Method
This method is best if you prefer not to work with a squeeze bottle.
What You'll Need:
- Whatever you're using as a ribbon, warmed (fudge, caramel, fruit swirl, etc)
- Large bowl, to hold ribbon
- Mixing spoon
How to Do it:
Start by extruding about a quarter of your ice cream. Spoon about a quarter of your ribbon on top of your ice cream. Take your mixing spoon and fold the ribbon into your ice cream. Stir it gently so the swirl stays in tact. Repeat this with the rest of your ice cream and ribbon. This will create a more marbled effect.
Swirls and ribbons are great for hard scoop ice cream. They add great flavor, texture, and visual interest.
Want to take your ice cream game to the next level? Try using rolled ice cream scrapers to create unique designs and textures in your swirls and ribbons.
