Homemade strawberry ice cream is a sweet treat that is super easy to make! With fresh strawberries, creamy milk, and a hint of vanilla, this dessert is like summer in a bowl.
Nothing beats the joy of making this ice cream with kids—everyone loves squishing the strawberries! 🍓 I like to serve it in cones with sprinkles on top for extra fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for flavor. If they’re out of season, try frozen strawberries instead—just thaw and drain excess juice before using. I love using a mix of ripe and slightly under-ripe strawberries for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps sweeten the ice cream. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity as they are sweeter. I prefer using coconut sugar for a hint of caramel flavor!
Heavy cream & Whole milk: These give the ice cream that rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can mix half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and almond milk can also work, but they may alter the flavor.
Vanilla extract: Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, a drop of vanilla essence will suffice, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Lemon juice: While it’s optional, lemon juice brightens the strawberry flavor. If you don’t have lemon, a dash of lime juice can also work for a nice twist!
How Do I Ensure My Ice Cream Has The Perfect Consistency?
To get smooth and creamy ice cream, it’s crucial to mix the ingredients well. Whisk the heavy cream, milk, and sugar until fully combined. This step ensures the sugar dissolves completely, which helps with texture.
- Let the strawberries macerate properly. This releases their juices, which enhances their sweetness.
- When churning, don’t skip checking the consistency! Be sure to churn until it’s soft-serve-like. Over-churning can lead to icy ice cream.
- After churning, cover and freeze the ice cream. Let it sit a few hours to firm up. This patience is what gives you that perfect scoop.
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
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homemade strawberry ice cream will take you about 20 minutes of active preparation time. Then, allow it to chill in the freezer for about 4 hours to firm up. So, total time is about 4 hours and 20 minutes before you can enjoy your icy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by placing the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar over the strawberries and mix them well. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This process is called maceration, and it helps the strawberries release their delicious juices.
2. Mash the Strawberries:
After the strawberries have sat, take a fork or a potato masher and gently mash the strawberries a bit. You want to break them down slightly, but leave some chunks in there for texture. It’s going to make your ice cream even tastier!
3. Mix the Ice Cream Base:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved and everything is well combined.
4. Combine Strawberry Mixture:
Now it’s time to mix everything! Fold the macerated strawberries into the cream mixture. Stir gently until everything is incorporated, but be careful not to over-mix; we want those lovely strawberry chunks to stay intact!
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn it until it reaches a soft serve consistency. This typically takes about 20-30 minutes, but it can vary based on your machine.
6. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Once churned, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container. Make sure to spread it out evenly, and cover it well. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until it’s nice and firm.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the homemade strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones. Sit back, enjoy the delightful summer flavors, and feel good about your homemade creation!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them completely first. Once thawed, drain any excess liquid before proceeding with the recipe. This will help maintain the desired texture of your ice cream.
How to Adjust the Sweetness of the Ice Cream?
If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, simply reduce the amount of sugar you use. Start by cutting the sugar in half, and taste the mixture before churning. You can always add more sugar if needed, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s mixed in!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork for about 3-4 hours until it reaches a soft and creamy consistency. This will help prevent ice crystals from forming.
How to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To maintain the best texture, place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing it with a lid. This will help prevent freezer burn. Enjoy within a couple of weeks for the best flavor!
