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🇮🇷 Iran · Dessert

Bastani Sonnati (Persian Saffron Ice Cream)

60 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 280 kcal
Nicely balanced
🍽 8 servings
Feeds a crowd

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Bastani Sonnati (Persian Saffron Ice Cream)🇮🇷 IRAI-generated image

A rich, aromatic traditional Persian ice cream flavored with saffron, rose water, and chunks of frozen clotted cream.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Whisk 4 egg yolks and 150g sugar until pale and thick.

  • 2

    Heat 500ml milk until simmering and stir in 1 tsp saffron (diluted in water).

  • 3

    Dissolve 40g cornstarch in cold milk and whisk into the hot milk until it thickens.

  • 4

    Temper the eggs by adding a ladle of hot milk, then whisk back into the pot.

  • 5

    Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, then stir in 2 tbsp rose water.

  • 6

    Cool the mixture completely, then churn in an ice cream maker until thick.

  • 7

    Freeze separately small pieces of clotted cream until rock hard.

  • 8

    Fold the cream pieces into the finished ice cream and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bastani Sonnati?+

Bastani Sonnati is a saffron-infused Persian dairy dessert characterized by its floral notes. It is prepared with milk, sugar, egg yolks, rose water, and cornstarch, often served as a frozen treat during warm seasons or celebrations.

What is the clotted cream chunk?+

It is frozen heavy cream pieces, known as 'khamseh', that add a rich, chewy texture to the ice cream.

Can I omit eggs?+

The eggs provide the classic custard base, so omitting them will change the texture significantly.

Is high-quality saffron important?+

Yes, it is the primary flavor profile; use the best threads you can source.

How long does it keep?+

It keeps well for up to a week in the freezer, though the texture is best when fresh.

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