Saffron Ice Cream (Bastani Sonnati)

Rich, creamy, and delicately aromatic, Bastani Sonnati is a beloved Persian ice cream renowned for its luxurious texture and vibrant golden color. Infused with premium saffron and fragrant rosewater, this traditional dessert offers a unique balance of floral sweetness and creamy indulgence. Slivers of pistachios and pieces of frozen clotted cream (khameh) add delightful texture, making every bite unforgettable.

A true symbol of Persian dessert culture, Bastani Sonnati is often enjoyed on warm summer days or served alongside traditional Persian sweets. The secret to its distinctive flavor lies in allowing the saffron to fully infuse the custard base before churning, creating an ice cream that's both elegant and refreshingly unique.

Recipe Information

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 4 large egg yolks

• ½ teaspoon premium saffron threads

• 2 tablespoons hot water

• 1 ice cube (optional, for blooming saffron)

• 2 tablespoons rosewater

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Mix-ins

• ½ cup frozen clotted cream (khameh), cut into small pieces

• ¼ cup slivered pistachios

Garnish

• Dried rose petals

• Extra slivered pistachios

• Additional saffron strands (optional)

Instructions

1. Bloom the Saffron

Grind the saffron threads into a fine powder. Add them to the hot water and allow them to steep for 10–15 minutes. For a richer extraction, add a small ice cube after the hot water.

2. Prepare the Custard

In a saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and smooth. Gradually whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.

Return everything to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

3. Add the Flavorings

Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the bloomed saffron, rosewater, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until fully combined.

4. Chill the Custard

Cover the custard and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period allows the saffron and rosewater to develop their full flavor.

5. Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

6. Fold in the Mix-ins

Gently fold the frozen clotted cream pieces (khameh) and slivered pistachios into the semi-frozen ice cream, distributing them evenly without overmixing.

7. Freeze

Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for 4 hours or until firm.

8. Serve

Scoop into chilled bowls or waffle cones and garnish with extra pistachios, dried rose petals, and a few saffron strands.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, luxurious texture

• Naturally golden with premium saffron

• Delicate floral notes from rosewater

• Crunchy pistachios in every bite

• Authentic Persian dessert

Chef's Tips

• Chill the custard overnight for the richest flavor.

• Use premium saffron for the deepest golden color.

• Don't overcook the custard, or the eggs may curdle.

• Freeze the clotted cream before folding it into the ice cream.

• Serve slightly softened for the creamiest texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chilling time

• Overheating the custard

• Adding the pistachios too early

• Using artificial saffron flavoring

• Freezing without covering the container tightly

Serving Suggestions

Bastani Sonnati pairs beautifully with:

• Persian saffron cookies

• Baklava

• Fresh strawberries

• Rose tea

• Pistachio biscotti

• Warm saffron cake

Storage

Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks.

Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bastani Sonnati?

It is a traditional Persian saffron ice cream flavored with rosewater and often enriched with pistachios and frozen clotted cream.

What is khameh?

Khameh is frozen clotted cream that adds rich, creamy bites throughout the ice cream.

Can I make it without an ice cream maker?

Yes. Freeze the custard in a shallow container and stir vigorously every 30–45 minutes until creamy, then fold in the pistachios and clotted cream.

Can I omit the rosewater?

Yes, although rosewater is one of the signature flavors of authentic Bastani Sonnati.

Why should I bloom the saffron?

Blooming saffron releases its natural color, aroma, and flavor, producing a richer and more authentic ice cream.

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 340

• Protein: 6 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fat: 23 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 24 g

Discover the Authentic Taste of Persia

The unmistakable golden color, floral aroma, and luxurious flavor of Bastani Sonnati come from premium-quality saffron. Using high-quality saffron transforms this traditional Persian dessert into an unforgettable treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Create authentic Persian saffron ice cream at home with Caravan Saffron and enjoy one of the world's most elegant frozen desserts.