There’s nothing quite like the sweet, fruity taste of homemade strawberry ice cream. This recipe combines fresh strawberries with a creamy base for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for warm days, family gatherings, or when you simply want to enjoy a scoop of happiness, this strawberry ice cream recipe is easy to follow and yields irresistibly delicious results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Strawberries: 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups for a rich and creamy texture
- Whole Milk: 1 cup for balance
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for depth of flavor
- Salt: A pinch to enhance the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Strawberries
- In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
- Mash the strawberries gently with a fork or potato masher to release their juices.
- Let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes to macerate and develop a sweet, juicy base.
2️⃣ Blend the Strawberries
- After macerating, transfer the strawberries and their juices to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth. For a more textured ice cream, leave a few chunks of strawberries intact.
3️⃣ Mix the Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves completely.
4️⃣ Combine the Flavors
- Pour the strawberry purée into the cream mixture.
- Stir well until the purée is fully incorporated, creating a smooth and vibrant pink base.
5️⃣ Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the prepared mixture into an ice cream maker.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning, which typically takes 20-25 minutes.
6️⃣ Freeze the Ice Cream
- Once churned, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container.
- Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to allow it to firm up.
7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop generous portions of the strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of mint for an extra touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavor: The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries shines in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: No artificial flavors or preservatives—just pure goodness.
- Customizable Texture: Blend the strawberries to your preferred smoothness or leave some chunks for a rustic feel.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ice Cream
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: The sweeter the strawberries, the better the ice cream.
- Chill the Mixture: For quicker churning, refrigerate the cream base for 1-2 hours before adding it to the ice cream maker.
- Airtight Storage: To prevent ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
Serving Ideas
This creamy strawberry ice cream is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with:
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
- Whipped cream and fresh berries
- A sprinkle of crushed cookies or nuts
Enjoy Homemade Happiness
Making strawberry ice cream from scratch is not only satisfying but also guarantees a dessert bursting with fresh, natural flavors. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon treat or a sweet ending to dinner, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of summer to your table.
So, grab your ice cream maker and let the magic begin! 🍓🍦
