Peach Ice Cream Recipe
Peach Ice Cream is a creamy, fruity dessert that captures the essence of summer. Made with fresh peaches, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and a hint of lemon juice, this homemade ice cream is both refreshing and indulgent. The process involves blending peaches, creating a smooth cream base, and churning the mixture for a velvety texture. Chill, freeze, and enjoy a delicious treat that’s perfect for hot weather and customizable to suit your taste.
Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor: To puree the peaches and create a smooth texture for the ice cream base.
- Mixing Bowls: To combine the cream, milk, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, as well as to mix in the peach puree.
- Whisk or electric mixer For mixing the ice cream base and ensuring the sugar dissolves fully.
- Ice Cream Maker If you have one, this is the key tool for churning the ice cream and giving it a smooth, creamy texture. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
- Freezer-Safe Container: To store the ice cream while it firms up in the freezer. Make sure it has a tight-fitting lid or cover to prevent freezer burn.
- Spoon or Ice Cream Scooper To scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones for serving.
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium Frozen Peaches
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Salt A pinch (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the PeachesPeel, pit, and chop the peaches into small pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, puree them in a blender or food processor. For a chunkier texture, blend half of the peaches and reserve the rest to stir in later.
- Make the Ice Cream BaseIn a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Combine Peach Puree and Cream BaseStir the pureed peaches into the cream mixture until evenly combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar, if necessary.
- Chill the MixtureCover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to chill thoroughly before churning.
- Churn and FreezePour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically for 20-30 minutes. Once the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Notes
- Use Ripe Peaches: The flavor of the ice cream will depend heavily on the quality of the peaches. Use ripe, in-season peaches for the sweetest and juiciest results. If using frozen peaches, ensure they are thawed before use.
- Chill the Mixture: For the best texture, make sure the ice cream base is thoroughly chilled before churning. This helps the ice cream maker churn the mixture more effectively, creating a creamier consistency.
- Adjust Sweetness: The sweetness of peaches can vary depending on their ripeness. Taste the peach mixture before churning and adjust the sugar as needed to suit your preference.
- Churn the Ice Cream Thoroughly: To achieve the smoothest texture, churn the ice cream until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. If using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
- Freezing Time: After churning, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and allow it to freeze for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to achieve the right firmness. For easier scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Customize with Add-ins: If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some chopped peaches to stir in after churning. You can also add mix-ins like crumbled shortbread, caramel swirls, or toasted almonds for added flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. For best quality, consume within a week for the freshest taste and texture.