Ep 12. Corn Ice Cream

Zoe Bakes season 3 episode 12 titled "Corn Ice Cream" delves into a unique and unexpected flavor combination that captures the true essence of summer. Zoe, a talented baker and pastry chef, kicks off the episode by introducing us to her inspiration, sweet corn. She explains how she looks forward to the peak of summer when fresh, juicy corn is at its best.

Zoe starts off by sharing her recipe for homemade cornmeal waffles. As the waffles come together, Zoe talks about her love for corn and how she incorporates it into her cooking and baking. She shares how the sweet and savory flavors of corn pair well with different types of recipes like cakes, muffins, and even ice cream.

The real star of the episode, though, is the corn ice cream. Zoe takes us through the process of creating this unique dessert from scratch. She starts by cooking down fresh corn kernels in cream, milk, and sugar. As the mixture simmers, the corn flavors begin to infuse into the liquid, creating a subtle and sweet flavor.

Once the mixture has cooled, Zoe pours it into an ice cream maker and lets it churn until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Along the way, she explains the science behind making ice cream and how important it is to properly temper the mixture to achieve the right texture.

As the ice cream churns, Zoe checks on her cornmeal waffles and starts to think about plating the final dish. She decides to create a simple and elegant sundae, complete with a warm waffle, a scoop of homemade corn ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. As she assembles the sundae, Zoe talks about the importance of balancing flavors and textures in dessert making.

As Zoe takes the first bite of the finished sundae, she savors the creamy and sweet flavor of the ice cream, the crunch of the cornmeal waffle, and the sticky sweetness of the caramel sauce. She notes how the flavors of the corn ice cream are subtle yet distinct, making it the perfect dessert for a summer evening.

Throughout the episode, Zoe's passion for baking and cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients is evident. She shares tips and tricks for home bakers to elevate their desserts and encourages viewers to experiment with unexpected flavor combinations. By the end of the episode, you'll be inspired to head to your local farmers' market and pick up some fresh corn to try your hand at making your own corn ice cream.