Vanilla Chai Ice Cream

I had some Tea Masala that Carl's sister, Audrey got for me on a recent trip she took to Nepal. I added it to a few cups of tea, but really havent used it as much as Id like since the weather is heating back up. I was kind of at a loss with what to do with it when I came across a recipe for Green Tea ice cream and I thought, Chai tea ice cream would be yummy too! I took a basic vanilla ice cream recipe, then I added some black tea and the Tea Masala, which is what Chai spices are made from. The ingredients in this spice blend are cinnamon, cardamom, dry ginger, black pepper, nutmeg, mace, cloves, black cardamom, star anise, and white pepper. Well, this turned out yummy! I love the taste, as it really is like a frozen vanilla chai latte. The texture was more like ice milk. I cut back on the half and half though and added more milk with the cream to lighten it up a bit. I may follow the original recipe for vanilla ice cream more exactly next time. Also, I can feel the spices in my mouth when I eat this, which doesnt really bother me at all, but next time I make this I will definitely strain it all through some cheesecloth to make it as smooth as it can be. Either way, I think this is a yummy and different treat!

Adapted from Allrecipes.

2 cups half-and-half cream
3/4 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup whole milk
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup strong black tea
1 1/2 tsp Tea Masala spices

In a medium sauce pan, combine the half and half with the sugar, vanilla and Tea Masala spices. Cook on medium heat until bubbles form around edges, but do not boil. Be sure to stir it a lot so that all of the sugar dissolves. When hot enough, take off the stove and let steep for a few minutes. Add the milk and heavy cream to the half and half mixture whisking it together. Cover and put in the fridge for 3-4 hrs until very cold. When cold, freeze in an ice cream maker using manufactures directions.