This creamy ice cream combines the warm flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon. It’s a simple treat that you can whip up at home without an ice cream machine!
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. It’s like a cozy hug in a cone! I keep it in the freezer for those late-night cravings. Perfect for sharing… or not! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half with half-and-half, though the texture may not be as creamy.
Whole Milk: You can use 2% milk if that’s what you have on hand. However, using whole milk will make the ice cream richer.
Brown Sugar: I love the depth of flavor brown sugar brings to this ice cream. If you need a substitute, light brown sugar works well, or you can use coconut sugar for a different twist.
Ground Cinnamon: Feel free to adjust the amount based on your cinnamon preference! If you have cinnamon sticks, you can steep them in the milk mixture for a more intense flavor. Just remove them before adding the cream.
Vanilla Extract: Using pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. If you’re out, vanilla bean paste is a great alternative, or even a vanilla pod if you have it!
How Do You Get Creamy Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can still achieve a creamy texture by using the following method:
- After combining all ingredients, pour them into a shallow baking dish.
- Freeze for about 1 hour, then stir to break up any ice crystals.
- Return to the freezer and repeat this stirring every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours.
- This process will create a smoother texture, similar to traditional churning.
It’s a little extra work, but it’s worth it for that creaminess!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus around 4 hours of freezing time. For the best results, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can. That way, it gets really cold before it hits the ice cream maker!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by combining the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Stir in the whole milk and whisk everything together until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the mixture to heat up. You want it to steam gently, but don’t let it boil. Once it’s steaming, remove it from the heat and let it cool for just a few minutes.
2. Mix in the Cream:
Pour the warm mixture into a mixing bowl. Now, whisk in the heavy whipping cream and the vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The warmth of the mixture will help blend in the cream nicely.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. If you have time to spare, letting it chill overnight will give you even better results as it will be super cold when you churn it. Cold base = creamy ice cream!
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
After chilling, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and churn it for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. It should be fluffy and light!
5. Freeze for Firmness:
Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Spread it out evenly and cover it tightly. Place it in the freezer and let it firm up for at least 4 hours, or until it’s the perfect scoopable texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ice cream is firm, it’s ready to serve! Scoop the brown sugar cinnamon ice cream into cones or bowls. Enjoy this delightful treat on a warm day, or any day you need a cozy sweetness!
This ice cream blends the warm flavors of cinnamon with the rich sweetness of brown sugar, making it a comforting dessert any time of the year. Indulge yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into a shallow baking dish. Freeze it for about an hour and then stir it vigorously to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it reaches a creamy texture. It’s a bit of work, but totally worth it!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Yes! If you’d like a different sweetness, you can try granulated sugar or coconut sugar. Just remember that using white sugar may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Start with the same amount and adjust to taste if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. To maintain its creamy texture, press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Definitely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or cookie crumbles in the last few minutes of churning in the ice cream maker. Just remember that if you add too many extras, it might affect the final texture!
