Outdoor Entertaining: Nice Cream - Host an Herb-Infused Ice Cream Social This Summer
Happy July, friends! Sultry summer evenings are officially here, which means it’s time for those easy outdoor gatherings we all look forward to. Summer entertaining doesn’t have to be fancy. It’s really about good company, a relaxed vibe, and maybe a little something unexpected to serve.
This year, why not host an herb-infused ice cream social?
It’s a fun twist on a classic summer treat, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull off. Instead of the usual vanilla or chocolate, we’re giving our ice cream a garden-fresh upgrade with herbs like mint, basil, lavender, or rosemary. Herbs add subtle, refreshing flavors that blend beautifully with creamy bases. The result is something light, a little sophisticated, and totally refreshing on a hot night. The best part? Herbs aren’t just tasty, they come with health perks, too.
Here are a few worth noting at your gathering:
Thyme: Full of vitamin C and antioxidants, helps boost immunity and fight inflammation.
Marjoram: Supports digestion and helps relax the body.
Oregano: Loaded with antimicrobial and antiviral benefits; a great immune booster.
Fennel: Helps with bloating and digestion and soothes the stomach.
Lavender: Naturally calming, great for reducing anxiety and improving sleep.
Mint (Peppermint & Spearmint): Eases digestion, relieves nausea, and freshens breath.
Chamomile: A gentle stress reliever and sleep aid with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Rosemary: Can support circulation, reduce stress, and even boost memory.
Sage: Supports oral health and brain function, with antibacterial properties.
Tarragon: Helps with digestion and sleep, and adds a soft herbal note.
Lemon Balm: Eases anxiety, aids digestion, and encourages better sleep.
Cilantro: Detoxifying and packed with vitamins A and K.
Basil: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, plus it supports bone health.
Once you start experimenting with herb flavors and herb/fruit flavors, the combinations are endless. Here are a few to get your creativity going:
Basil/Lemon Zest: Fresh and citrusy
Lavender/Honey: Light and floral
Thyme/Orange Blossom: Subtly sweet with a citrus lift
Mint/Cucumber: Clean, cool, and crisp
Rosemary/Fig: Earthy and jammy
Sage/Brown Butter: Nutty and savory
Chamomile/Vanilla: Gentle and mellow
Cilantro/Lime: Bright, herbal, and tropical
Peppermint/White Chocolate: Cool and creamy
If you’ve never made ice cream at home, it’s easier than you might think. Start by warming your milk in a saucepan and adding the herbs, either torn leaves or whole sprigs. Let them steep off the heat for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how strong you want the flavor. Strain the herbs out (or blend, if you want bolder flavor), mix in the rest of your ingredients, and pour the base into a freezer-safe container. Every 30 minutes or so, give it a good stir to break up any ice crystals. After a few hours, you’ll have your own creamy, herb-infused ice cream, no machine needed.
For your party setup, keep it simple and inviting. Offer two or three flavors, and let guests build their own sundae with toppings like citrus zest, honey, dark chocolate shavings, candied nuts, or crushed peppermint. Serve the scoops in pretty bowls or vintage teacups and garnish with fresh herbs for a nice touch. Dress the table with clippings from your herb garden, hang a few string lights, and maybe add a chalkboard menu to list the flavors and suggested toppings.
You’ll want a refreshing drink to go with all that creamy goodness. A Basil-Lemon Fizz is a perfect choice. Just muddle basil with lemon juice and honey, then top it off with sparkling water or club soda. Add vodka or gin if you’d like a spiked version. Pour it into a drink dispenser, toss in some lemon slices and basil sprigs, and label it with a cute handwritten sign like: “Basil-Lemon Fizz – Pour, Sip, Repeat!” or “Bye Bye Anxiety!” Use your creativity.
For a sweet parting gift, send guests home with mini potted herbs or seed packets fastened with twine. It’s a simple touch that ties it all together.
So go ahead and scoop up some thyme, swirl in a little rosemary, and serve your guests a taste of something fresh and unexpected. An herb-infused ice cream social is the kind of summer gathering that feels both effortless and memorable. With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you’ll have friends lingering longer, asking for second scoops, and maybe even going home with a new appreciation for the magic growing in your garden.
Cheers to the delightful taste of summer!
Basil-Lemon Fizz
Ingredients:
½ cup fresh basil leaves
½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/3 cup honey or simple syrup
2 cups sparkling water or club soda
Optional: 1 cup vodka or gin
Lemon slices + basil sprigs for garnish
Ice
Instructions:
Muddle basil, lemon juice, and honey in a pitcher or shaker.
Add sparkling water (and alcohol, if using), then stir.
Pour over ice and garnish with lemon and basil.
Serve.
Peppermint & White Chocolate Ice Cream
Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4½ ounces white chocolate, chopped
½ cup sugar
4 egg yolks
1 tablespoon fresh peppermint (or 1 teaspoon peppermint extract)
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Heat the milk gently with chopped peppermint until warm and fragrant. Don’t boil.
Let steep for 15-20 minutes, then strain out the peppermint.
In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar. Slowly stir in the warm milk.
Return to the stove and cook over low heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate and salt until smooth.
Add cream, chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
Churn in an ice cream maker, or freeze and stir every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours.
Top with white chocolate curls or crushed peppermint candy.
Basil-Lemon Zest Ice Cream
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
¾ cup sugar
1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
Zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Combine milk, sugar, lemon zest, and basil in a saucepan.
Gently heat over medium-low (don’t boil) for about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Blend the mixture (use an immersion blender or strain for a smoother texture).
Chill the mixture until cold.
Churn in an ice cream maker or use the freezer method and stir every 30 minutes until creamy.
