ICE CREAM!

Anyone who knows me knows that this is my biggest w-e-a-k-n-e-s-s. So, that's what Jonah and I decided to make for Valentine's Day. I have an ice cream maker attachment to my kitchen aid (which I LoVE). But this recipe would work great with whatever ice cream making apparatus you may have. MMMmmm.

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream

2 1/2 cups half-and-half

8 egg yolks

1 cup sugar

2 1/2 cups whipping cream

4 teaspoons vanilla

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups crushed oreo (or other mix in)

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat half-and-half until very hot but not boiling, stirring often. Remove from heat; set aside.

Place egg yolks and sugar in mixer bowl. Attach bowl and wire whip to mixer. Turn to speed 2, and mix about 30 seconds, or until well blended and slightly thickened. Continuing on speed 2, very gradually add half-and-half; mix until blended. Return half-and-half mixture to medium saucepan; cook over medium heat until small bubbles form around edge and mixture is steamy, stirring constantly. Do not boil. Transfer half-and-half mixture into large bowl; stir in whipping cream, vanilla, and salt. Cover and chill thoroughly, at least 8 hours.

Assemble and engage freeze bowl, dasher, and drive assembly [separate instructions]. Turn to Stir (speed 1). Using a container with a spout, pour mixture into freeze bowl. Continue on Stir (speed 1) for 15 to 20 minutes or until desired consistency. Add 1 1/2 cup crushed cookies during last minute of stirring. Immediately transfer ice cream into serving dishes, or freeze in airtight container.

J loved helping (I felt so bad he couldn't have any). Here's hoping he outgrows this dairy allergy!