What does it taste like?

This dessert surprises most people on the first bite. It has a velvety texture that’s similar to a classic custard-based ice cream, but the flavor brings something a little different to the table. Instead of being overly sweet or artificial, the taste is mellow and naturally rich. You’ll notice subtle notes of buttery corn pudding, a soft hint of vanilla, and an earthy sweetness that lingers just long enough to make you reach for another spoonful. Some say it reminds them of sweet cream corn meets crème brûlée. Others think of it as a summertime version of comfort food in frozen form. The corn’s natural sugars give it a gentle warmth, while the cream base keeps it light and satisfying. For an extra burst of flavor, a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of honey can add a surprising depth that complements the base beautifully.

Where is it a popular dessert?

This ice cream flavor may seem unconventional in the U.S., but it’s well-established in several parts of the world. In Mexico, you’ll find it in paleterías under the name helado de elote. It’s often served in cups with cinnamon or caramel sauce, and it’s especially popular during festivals or family gatherings. In the Philippines, sweet corn is a common element in desserts like mais con yelo—a shaved ice treat with corn, milk, and sugar. That cultural love for corn extends naturally to frozen treats, and local ice cream shops there regularly include corn in their flavor lineups. Here in the United States, especially in the Midwest and South, more restaurants and small-batch ice cream makers are starting to embrace corn-based desserts. It’s showing up at farm-to-table establishments, artisan creameries, and even in home kitchens as a seasonal specialty during late summer when corn is at its peak.

How do you make it at home?

Making this frozen dessert at home is simpler than you might think. You begin by cutting the kernels off a few ears of fresh corn and simmering them with milk, cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Once the corn has steeped and released its flavor, you remove the cobs and blend the mixture until smooth. The next step is to strain the mixture for a silkier texture, then temper egg yolks to make a custard base. Once it thickens, chill the custard thoroughly—overnight is ideal—then churn it in your ice cream machine until thick and creamy. After a few hours in the freezer, it’s ready to scoop and serve.

Does Ben & Jerry’s use corn syrup?

Yes, some flavors from Ben & Jerry’s do contain corn syrup, though the brand has made efforts to remove high-fructose corn syrup from most of their offerings. They focus heavily on non-GMO ingredients and tend to list sweeteners clearly on their packaging. If you're watching for specific ingredients, it’s a good idea to read the label of each flavor. Their transparency makes it easy to choose the one that suits your preferences best.

sweet corn ice cream : 4 Unique & Creamy Summer Treat

Description

A creamy, cozy, and surprisingly sweet dessert made with fresh corn, milk, and cream. Sweet corn ice cream is a summertime treat that blends comfort and curiosity in one scoop.

Ingredients

Scale

4 ears fresh sweet corn

2 cups whole milk

2 cups heavy cream

3/4 cup sugar

1/2 tsp salt

5 egg yolks

Instructions

1. Cut kernels from corn and reserve cobs.

2. Simmer kernels, cobs, milk, cream, sugar, and salt for 15–20 minutes.

3. Remove cobs, blend mixture until smooth, and strain.

4. Whisk egg yolks in a bowl and temper with warm corn mixture.

5. Return all to pot and cook over low heat until custard thickens.

6. Chill custard thoroughly—ideally overnight.

7. Churn in an ice cream maker according to machine instructions.

8. Freeze for 4+ hours or until firm. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Use fresh corn in peak season for the best flavor.

Don’t skip steeping with the cobs—they add major depth.

Double strain for an extra smooth finish.

Top with honey, flaky sea salt, or cinnamon for fun flavor boosts.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Churned
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 scoop
Calories: 290
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: sweet corn ice cream, corn dessert, summer ice cream, homemade frozen dessert