This easy blender strawberry ice cream is creamy and sweet, just like summer in a bowl! Fresh strawberries blend perfectly with cream for a treat you’ll want every day.
You only need three ingredients and a blender, which means no ice cream maker mess! I love serving it topped with extra berries—who can resist that sweet goodness? 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can replace them with frozen berries. Just blend them straight from the freezer for an even colder treat.
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based sweetened condensed milk. I love the flavor it adds!
Vanilla Extract: It’s optional but adds depth to the flavor. You can also switch it up by using almond extract for a different taste profile.
Sugar: The amount can vary based on how sweet your strawberries are. Taste your mixture before freezing and adjust accordingly; you don’t want it too sweet!
How Can I Ensure My Ice Cream is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth and creamy texture in your ice cream lies in the blending technique. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by blending the strawberries until fully smooth. This helps create a consistent base.
- Add the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, then blend on medium speed until combined, but don’t over-blend. This keeps some air in the mixture.
- Once you pour it into your container, smooth the top and pack it gently but not too tight. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Leave the ice cream out for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to soften just enough to scoop easily.
These tips will help you achieve that great texture we all love in homemade ice cream! Enjoy your treat! 🍦
Easy Blender Strawberry Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1-2 tbsp sugar (optional, adjust based on sweetness of strawberries)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing strawberry ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 to 6 hours to freeze. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that yields a luscious homemade treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries under cool running water. Remove the green tops, known as hulls, and slice the strawberries into manageable pieces. This will help them blend more easily.
2. Blend the Strawberries:
Place the sliced strawberries into your blender. Blend until they are completely smooth. If you like your ice cream with some chunks of strawberry, you can pulse a few times to keep some pieces intact.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract (if you want a little extra flavor), and sugar (if you need it). Blend everything together on medium speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Pour and Freeze:
Transfer the blended mixture into a freezer-safe container, smooth out the top, and cover it well with a lid or plastic wrap. Put it in the freezer and let it chill for at least 4 to 6 hours or until it’s nice and firm.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, take the ice cream out of the freezer about 5 minutes ahead of time. This will make it easier to scoop. Serve the ice cream in bowls or glasses, and you can even top it with extra fresh strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy your creamy, homemade blender strawberry ice cream! It’s a delightful summer treat that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen strawberries, but there’s no need to thaw them first. Just blend them straight from the freezer. This will give your ice cream a super cold, refreshing texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
You can store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to seal it well to prevent freezer burn. If it gets too hard, let it sit out for a few minutes before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option or need a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream, almond cream, or even full-fat Greek yogurt. Just note that using yogurt will produce a slightly different texture but still taste delicious!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Healthier?
Sure! To make a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk and replace it with yogurt or unsweetened almond milk. You can also reduce or omit the added sugar depending on your taste and the sweetness of your strawberries!
