Grandma’s Keto Bourbon Ice Cream with Bourbon Cherries

A grown-up twist on a family classic — Grandma’s beloved bourbon ice cream and bourbon-soaked cherries, now made low-carb and keto-friendly. The rich, creamy ice cream paired with the luscious bourbon cherries is indulgence in every spoonful, without the sugar spike. Perfect for special occasions or when you want a boozy treat that keeps your macros in check.

---

Why Keto Changes Matter

Grandma’s original recipes were full of sugar, which can spike blood sugar and make keto impossible. Here’s how we updated them:

For the ice cream:

• Replaced granulated sugar with Keystone Pantry Allulose — allulose tastes like sugar but has virtually zero net carbs and won’t spike blood sugar.

• Used heavy cream and whole milk for creaminess while keeping carbs low.

• Added vanilla extract and a touch of bourbon for flavor without sugar.

For the bourbon cherries:

• Traditional bourbon cherries are sweetened with sugar; we replaced it with allulose.

• The natural sweetness of the cherries is enhanced by allulose, creating the same luscious, boozy effect with a keto-friendly profile.

---

Ingredients

Bourbon Cherries (Keto Version)

• 2 cups fresh or frozen dark cherries, pitted

• ½ cup bourbon

• ¼ cup Keystone Pantry Allulose

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Keto Bourbon Ice Cream

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or whole milk if preferred)

• ¾ cup Keystone Pantry Allulose

• 4 large egg yolks

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 tbsp bourbon

• Pinch of salt

---

Instructions

Step 1: Make Keto Bourbon Cherries

1. Combine cherries, bourbon, allulose, vanilla, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until allulose dissolves and cherries are plump.

3. Remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).

Tip: The cherries can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

---

Step 2: Make the Keto Bourbon Ice Cream Base

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, almond milk, and half the allulose. Heat over medium until steaming (not boiling).

2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining allulose until smooth.

3. Slowly temper the egg yolks by adding a few spoonfuls of the hot cream mixture while whisking constantly.

4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon (~170–175°F).

5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, bourbon, and a pinch of salt.

6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

---

Step 3: Churn & Assemble

1. Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Fold in bourbon cherries gently once churning is complete.

3. Transfer to a container and freeze for 2–4 hours to firm up.

---

Nutritional Information (per ½ cup serving)

Note: Net carbs are low thanks to allulose and using cherries sparingly. Adjust portion size for stricter keto adherence.

---

FAQ

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and almond milk with full-fat coconut milk. Flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q: How strong is the bourbon flavor?
A: The bourbon adds warmth and depth without being overpowering. For more kick, you can increase by 1–2 tbsp, keeping in mind alcohol doesn’t fully cook off in the ice cream.

Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Absolutely! Thaw slightly before cooking. They hold up well in this recipe.

Q: Can I prepare this without an ice cream maker?
A: Yes, pour the chilled base into a freezer-safe container, stir every 30–45 minutes for a few hours to prevent large ice crystals. Fold in cherries near the end.

Q: How long does it last in the freezer?
A: Best enjoyed within 1–2 weeks for optimal texture.

---

Why This Recipe Works Keto

1. Allulose replaces sugar, keeping carbs low without sacrificing sweetness.

2. High-fat cream base ensures creamy texture and satisfying richness.

3. Bourbon provides depth of flavor without sugar.

4. Careful fruit portioning gives the classic cherry bite while keeping net carbs low.