Strawberry Sensation Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh & Natural Flavor – Made with real strawberries for a vibrant, fruity taste.
• Creamy & Smooth Texture – The perfect balance of heavy cream and whole milk ensures a rich and velvety consistency.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an effortless homemade ice cream recipe.
• Customizable – Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or extra strawberry chunks for variety.
• No Ice Cream Maker Needed – Alternative freezing method included for those without an ice cream machine.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Strawberry Base:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled & sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup strawberry purée (from the strawberry base)

Directions

Prepare the Strawberry Base:

1. In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to macerate, allowing the strawberries to release their natural juices.

Make the Strawberry Purée:

3. Blend the macerated strawberries until smooth.
4. Measure ½ cup of purée for the ice cream base and set aside.

Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

5. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Combine & Churn:

6. Stir in the reserved ½ cup of strawberry purée and mix well.
7. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes).

Freeze & Serve:

8. Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container.
9. Freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
10. Scoop, serve, and enjoy the rich, creamy strawberry goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Churn Time: 20-25 minutes
• Freeze Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: ~250 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Fruity – Fold in chopped fresh strawberries during the last 5 minutes of churning for bursts of real fruit in every bite.
• Chocolate Twist – Add mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a chocolate-strawberry combination.
• Cookie Crunch – Stir in crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers for extra texture.
• Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut milk and a plant-based sweetener for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Sweeter & Creamier – Swap ½ cup of whole milk with sweetened condensed milk for an even richer texture.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Prevent Ice Crystals: Press a layer of plastic wrap directly on the ice cream’s surface before sealing the container.
• Softening Before Serving: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.

FAQs

How do I make this without an ice cream maker?

Pour the ice cream mixture into a shallow dish, freeze it, and stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to prevent ice crystals and create a smooth texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Thaw and drain them before blending to remove excess liquid.

Why is my homemade ice cream too hard?

Homemade ice cream lacks commercial stabilizers. To keep it softer, store it in a shallow container or add a splash of alcohol (like vodka) to the base.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but sugar helps with texture. Using a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup can help maintain creaminess.

How can I make it even creamier?

Replace some of the whole milk with sweetened condensed milk or add a small amount of cornstarch to the base.

Can I make this ice cream keto-friendly?

Yes! Use a sugar substitute like erythritol and replace whole milk with heavy cream or coconut milk.

How long does homemade strawberry ice cream last?

For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it within 2 weeks.

What toppings go well with strawberry ice cream?

Whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate syrup, crushed nuts, or sprinkles are all delicious choices.

Can I use this recipe for popsicles?

Absolutely! Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.

Is it okay to add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate?

Yes! Fold them in during the last few minutes of churning or after blending if using the no-churn method.

Conclusion

This homemade Strawberry Sensation Ice Cream is the perfect blend of fresh fruit, creamy texture, and irresistible sweetness. Whether you use an ice cream maker or the no-churn method, you’ll love the refreshing, indulgent taste of real strawberries in every bite. Enjoy this summer treat and get creative with your own delicious mix-ins!

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