Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream

Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream is the perfect treat for any ice cream lover. With fresh strawberries and a rich, creamy base, this homemade ice cream delivers all the sweet, fruity flavor you crave. The balance of fresh strawberry puree and vanilla cream creates a luxurious texture that is far superior to store-bought versions. Plus, it’s made without any artificial ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness of the strawberries to shine through. Perfect for summer days, or any time you want to indulge in a homemade dessert!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk

Directions

1. In a blender, puree the fresh strawberries with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the strawberry puree with the heavy cream and whole milk. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a container with a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
5. Serve and enjoy your homemade strawberry vanilla ice cream!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including freezing time)

Variations

1. Add Mix-ins: For extra texture, you can add crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts to the ice cream during the last few minutes of churning.
2. Use Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before blending to make them easier to puree.
3. Strawberry Swirl: For a fun twist, you can swirl extra strawberry puree into the ice cream base after churning. This will create a marbled effect.
4. Non-Dairy Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, though the texture may vary slightly.
5. Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture for a citrusy pop that complements the strawberries.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. To prevent ice crystals from forming, press a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat ice cream. If it’s too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
   Yes, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals until the ice cream is firm.
2. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
   Absolutely! You can substitute fresh raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for strawberries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar levels based on the fruit’s sweetness.
3. Can I make this ice cream without sugar?
   You can substitute the sugar with a sweetener of your choice, such as honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Just note that the texture may change slightly.
4. What kind of vanilla extract should I use?
   Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor, but you can also use vanilla bean paste or vanilla beans for an even richer taste.
5. Can I make this ice cream ahead of time?
   Yes, this ice cream can be made ahead and stored in the freezer. It’s perfect for preparing a few days before you plan to serve it.
6. Can I add alcohol to the ice cream for a fun twist?
   Yes! You can add a tablespoon of strawberry liqueur or a splash of rum to the base mixture before churning. Alcohol can prevent the ice cream from freezing too hard, creating a softer texture.
7. Can I use half-and-half instead of whole milk?
   Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the whole milk. It will give the ice cream a richer, creamier texture.
8. How do I make the ice cream smoother?
   To ensure a smooth texture, make sure to blend the strawberry mixture until fully pureed. Churning in an ice cream maker also helps create a creamy, smooth consistency.
9. Can I use whipped cream instead of heavy cream?
   Whipped cream should not be used as a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe, as it may not produce the same rich, creamy texture.
10. How can I make the ice cream firmer?
    If the ice cream turns out too soft after freezing, you can add a stabilizer like a small amount of cornstarch or use more heavy cream in the base mixture.

Conclusion

Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream is the perfect homemade dessert that combines the sweet, natural flavor of fresh strawberries with the creaminess of vanilla ice cream. Simple to make with just a few ingredients, this ice cream offers a refreshing treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or indulging in a sweet snack, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy your ice cream cravings.

Print