There’s something almost magical about making a Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe from scratch. The moment fresh strawberries meet rich cream and a touch of sugar, you know you’re in for something truly special. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood summers or simply craving a cool, fruity dessert, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s no wonder this strawberry ice cream recipe is a fan favorite for warm days, family gatherings, and even casual weeknight treats.
This creamy delight is a quick and satisfying dessert, ideal for anyone who wants to ditch artificial flavors for the real deal. Expect bold strawberry flavor, velvety texture, and a rosy hue that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, you don’t need fancy equipment, just a bit of time and love. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll never go back to store-bought!
Table of contents
Why This Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe Works
Homemade strawberry ice cream can often be hit or miss, either too icy, too sweet, or lacking that punchy strawberry flavor. This recipe solves all of that with three game-changing steps: macerating the berries, incorporating a custard base, and churning with care.
1. Macerating the Strawberries:
By tossing fresh strawberries with sugar and letting them sit, we naturally draw out their juices, concentrate their flavor, and soften them for the perfect texture. This little trick ensures your ice cream is bursting with strawberry essence in every bite.
2. Custard Base for Creaminess:
Unlike simpler no-churn options, this recipe uses a French-style custard base, made with egg yolks and cream. The result? A luxuriously smooth texture that feels like silk on your tongue. It’s the kind of creamy richness that elevates homemade ice cream into something gourmet.
3. Balanced Sweetness and Acidity:
A squeeze of lemon juice keeps the strawberry flavor bright and balanced, preventing the ice cream from becoming cloying. This touch of acidity also enhances the natural flavor of the berries, making them pop.
Customization Tips
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream or full-fat oat milk for a delicious vegan twist.
- No Churn Option: Skip the machine by folding whipped cream into sweetened condensed milk and strawberry purée.
- Add-Ins: Swirl in crushed graham crackers, white chocolate chunks, or fresh mint for a unique spin.
Recipe Card
Strawberry Ice Cream
Difficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes6
hours210
kcalThis homemade strawberry ice cream recipe delivers a creamy, rich treat with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk
2 cups heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, enhances strawberry flavor)
Directions
- Prepare the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with ¼ cup of sugar. Mash lightly and let sit for 15-20 minutes to release their juices.
- Blend: After macerating, puree the strawberries using a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Make the base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and remaining sugar until dissolved. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice if using. Mix in the strawberry puree.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1-2 hours, or until well-chilled.
- Churn: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually around 20-30 minutes).
- Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to set properly before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them before blending.
- Adjust the sugar level based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Ice Cream
- Fresh Strawberries Matter: The key to an amazing strawberry ice cream recipe is the quality of the strawberries. Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Macerate the Strawberries: Letting the strawberries sit with sugar before blending them allows the fruit to release its natural juices, giving your ice cream a more intense strawberry flavor.
- Chill Thoroughly: The colder your mixture before churning, the smoother the texture. Don’t skip the chilling step!
- Add Lemon Juice for Brightness: A touch of lemon juice can enhance the strawberry flavor, making your strawberry ice cream one of the best homemade versions you’ll ever try.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in a shallow, airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
Recipe Variants
- Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream: Add chunks of cheesecake and a swirl of graham cracker crumbs for a strawberry cheesecake twist.
- Strawberry Banana Ice Cream: Blend in a ripe banana for an extra layer of creamy sweetness.
- Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream: Use coconut milk and a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Strawberry Swirl Ice Cream: Mix in a strawberry jam swirl just before freezing for a rippled effect.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ice Cream: Add chunks of chocolate or a chocolate swirl for a decadent treat.
How to Store Strawberry Ice Cream
To store your homemade strawberry ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container, and press a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream. That way you prevent ice crystals from forming. It will keep for up to 2 weeks in the freezer, though it’s best enjoyed within the first week for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Ice Cream
Serve this strawberry ice cream in a cone, a bowl, or even as a topping for warm desserts like brownies or pie. You can also get creative and make strawberry ice cream sandwiches using soft cookies. You can also drizzle it with chocolate sauce and top with fresh berries for an indulgent sundae.
Final Thoughs
This Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is everything a homemade dessert should be, rich, creamy, and bursting with real fruit flavor. It’s a treat that never goes out of style, whether you’re cooling off on a summer day or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Looking to take things up a notch? Top your scoops with a luscious Strawberry Compote or sandwich it between layers of Bisquick Strawberry Shortcake for a show-stopping dessert. Want to explore other fruit-forward favorites? You’ll love the tropical twist of Mango Sticky Rice, which pairs beautifully with creamy treats like this.
Once you make this, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent part of your dessert rotation. It’s easy, customizable, and irresistibly delicious.
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