Orange Ice Cream Recipe
This Orange Ice Cream recipe combines the fresh, tangy flavor of oranges with a creamy, smooth texture for a refreshing homemade treat. Made with simple ingredients like fresh orange juice, zest, heavy cream, and whole milk, it’s easy to prepare and customizable to your taste. Whether using an ice cream maker or an alternative method, this ice cream is perfect for summer or any occasion. Enjoy it on its own or topped with fresh fruit or other fun toppings for a delightful dessert.
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (manual or electric) – for churning the mixture to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Mixing Bowls: for combining the ingredients.
- Whisk to blend the cream, milk, and sugar together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: for accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Zester or Grater: for zesting the oranges.
- Strainer – for straining the orange juice to remove seeds and pulp.
- Freezer-Safe Container: for storing the ice cream while it freezes.
- Spatula: to transfer the ice cream into the container and smooth the top.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Salt a pinch
Instructions
- Prepare the Orange Base: Zest the oranges to collect 1 tablespoon of zest. Squeeze the oranges to get 1 cup of fresh orange juice, then strain it to remove any seeds and pulp.
- Mix the Orange Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine Cream and Milk: In another bowl, mix 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk. If using vanilla extract, add it to the mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually pour the cream and milk mixture into the orange juice mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
- Chill and Churn: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to chill. After chilling, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, about 20-30 minutes. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Whipping the Cream: Make sure to whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, not stiff peaks, as this helps create a creamy texture for the ice cream.
- Crushing Oreos: You can adjust the texture of the Oreo pieces according to your preference. Crush them finely for a smoother consistency or leave them chunkier for added crunch.
- Freezing Time: The ice cream needs 4-6 hours (or overnight) to fully freeze and set. Don't rush this step to ensure the ice cream has the proper texture.
- Storage: Keep the ice cream covered tightly in the freezer to prevent freezer burn. A layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container helps maintain its creamy texture.
- Vegan Adaptation: If making a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative. Ensure the Oreos are also vegan-friendly, as some varieties may contain dairy.
- Serving Tip: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping if it's too firm. This will make it easier to serve and give you the perfect creamy texture.