Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
This delicious strawberry ice cream recipe is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a classic summer treat made from fresh ingredients. Using ripe strawberries, sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and a hint of vanilla, you can create a creamy and flavorful dessert that rivals any store-bought version. The process involves macerating the strawberries, blending them into a puree, and combining them with the other ingredients before chilling and churning in an ice cream maker.
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker Essential for churning the mixture to achieve the creamy texture of ice cream. You can use a traditional ice cream maker or an electric one.
- Blender or Food Processor: Used to puree the strawberries and blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Mixing Bowls: Several bowls for combining ingredients and macerating the strawberries.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like strawberries, sugar, cream, and milk.
- Spatula: Helpful for mixing and scraping down the sides of bowls.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh Strawberries
- 3/4 cups Sugar
- 1 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cups Whole Milk
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Combine 2 cups of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries with 3/4 cup of sugar in a bowl; let sit for 15-20 minutes to release juices.
- Blend Mixture: Puree the strawberry mixture in a blender until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the strawberry puree. Chill for at least 1 hour.
- Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency (about 20-25 minutes).
- Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ingredient Freshness: Use the ripest and freshest strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used but may result in a different texture.
- Sugar Adjustment: The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on the sweetness of the strawberries and personal preference. Taste the strawberry mixture before adding the full amount of sugar.
- Chilling Time: For optimal flavor, allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight. A well-chilled mixture churns better and results in smoother ice cream.
- Ice Cream Maker Preparation: Ensure your ice cream maker is fully frozen if required (some models have a bowl that needs to be pre-frozen) before pouring in the mixture.
- Churning Consistency: Stop churning when the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency. Over-churning can lead to a grainy texture.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
- Serving Tips: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or other fruits to personalize your ice cream.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Nutrition Considerations: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re tracking calorie intake. Enjoy the ice cream as an occasional treat!