This homemade strawberry ice cream is creamy, fruity, and a perfect treat for warm days. Just blend fresh strawberries with cream and sugar, then freeze it to make a delicious scoop!
I love how you can taste the real strawberries in every bite. Plus, making it at home means I can sneak a spoonful or two right from the freezer! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them completely, then mash and drain some excess liquid to keep your ice cream creamy.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps with sweetness and texture. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but this might slightly change the flavor. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar, which adds a caramel note.
Heavy Cream: This gives your ice cream that rich, smooth texture. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just note that the texture may differ slightly.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess. You can replace it with 2% milk for a lower-fat option. If you’re going dairy-free, almond or oat milk are great choices, but your ice cream might be less creamy.
Vanilla Extract: Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. If you’re out, you can use vanilla bean paste or a dash of vanilla-flavored syrup as a substitute.
Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice brightens the flavor. If you don’t have it, a splash of orange juice can work too, or simply omit it entirely if you prefer a sweeter taste.
How Do I Properly Incorporate Strawberries into the Ice Cream?
Getting the strawberries right is crucial for your ice cream’s flavor. You want to release their juices for a more intense taste. Here’s how:
- Combine sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl.
- Gently mash them with a fork or a potato masher—just enough to break them down, not puree them.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes. This time allows the sugar to pull out the juices, making your ice cream taste fresher and fruitier.
Trust me, this step makes a big difference!
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful homemade strawberry ice cream will take about 30 minutes of active prep time, along with a 4-hour freezing time. It’s easy to make while you relax or do other things, and the wait is definitely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries, which helps release their lovely juices. Let this fruity mixture sit for about 30 minutes to really enhance the flavor.
2. Mix the Ice Cream Base:
While the strawberries are resting, take another mixing bowl and whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved. This creates a rich and creamy base for your ice cream!
3. Combine the Strawberry Mixture:
Once the strawberries have sat and released their juices, add them (along with all those yummy juices) into the cream mixture. If you’d like a little extra brightness, now’s the time to stir in the lemon juice. Mix everything together gently.
4. Churn Your Ice Cream:
Pour the combined mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and churn for about 20-25 minutes, or until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency. This step is key for getting that creamy texture!
5. Freeze and Firm Up:
After churning, transfer your ice cream into an airtight container. Pop it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, so it can firm up nicely. Patience is important here, but it will be so satisfying to have yummy ice cream waiting for you!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade strawberry ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes scooping easier! Serve it up in bowls or cones, and indulge in the delicious strawberry flavor. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for this recipe! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. This will help maintain the right consistency in your ice cream.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can make ice cream without an ice cream maker by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish. Freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes for the first few hours to break up any ice crystals. After about 4 hours, it should be creamy and ready to enjoy!
How to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks. For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before trying to scoop it out.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream or Whole Milk?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. However, using low-fat milk will result in a less creamy texture, so keep that in mind!
