Strawberry Creme Fraiche Ice Cream

1 pint strawberries (You can use fresh or frozen, but fresh is better.)
2-3 tablespoons sugar (depending upon how sweet your berries are)
2 tablespoons strawberry or raspberry liqueur* (optional) (I used Fragoli, a wild strawberry liqueur, but you can use Framboise, Chambord or whatever you like.)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup crème fraiche

Chop up the strawberries and place in a bowl with the 3 tablespoons of sugar and the liqueur (if using). Allow to macerate for about an hour or so. Then, roughly puree in a blender or food processor until slightly chunky. Set aside.

Combine the milk and 1 cup of sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat until hot, but not simmering. In another bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cream together until smooth. Add cream mixture to the saucepan and stir until mixture comes to a boil.

Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a bowl. Let it cool for about 5 minutes or so, stirring frequently to release the steam. Refrigerate until well chilled.

Once chilled, whisk in the crème fraiche and freeze in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last minute of churning, add the strawberry puree to the ice cream maker.

Freeze until the ice cream reaches your desired firmness.

Makes about 1 1/2 quarts.

Number of Servings: 10

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user CBATTE.