Homemade strawberry ice cream is a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for hot days! It uses fresh strawberries for a fruity flavor that feels like summer in every scoop.
Making this ice cream is a fun activity, especially when you get to mash the strawberries. I love serving it in a bowl with some extra berries on top—who doesn’t like a vibrant dessert? 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star here. Choose ripe and sweet berries for the best flavor. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, feel free to use frozen strawberries—just thaw them first before mashing.
Sugar: I used granulated sugar for sweetness. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider honey or agave syrup. You might need a bit less because they are sweeter. For a low-sugar option, try using a sugar substitute like Stevia.
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk: These give the ice cream a creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut cream can work too. Keep in mind that coconut cream will add a coconut flavor!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. If you’re out, you can substitute with vanilla bean paste or even imitation vanilla, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Lemon Juice: This is optional but enhances the flavor. If you don’t have lemon, a bit of lime juice could also brighten things up!
How Do I Perfectly Mash the Strawberries?
Mashing the strawberries is a key step for getting that perfect texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- After letting the strawberries sit with sugar, they will be nice and juicy. Use a fork or potato masher for best results.
- Gently mash until they’re partially pureed. Aim to have a mix of smooth and chunky bits—this gives the ice cream a nice texture.
- If you like it sweeter, feel free to taste and add a sprinkle more sugar before mixing it with the cream.
Taking the time to mash them well will ensure the flavors mix beautifully with the cream!
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 pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homemade strawberry ice cream takes about 30 minutes of prep time and at least 4 hours to freeze until firm. So, get ready to enjoy a creamy treat after a little wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Strawberries:
Start by taking your fresh strawberries and slicing them up. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This step helps release the juices from the strawberries, making them sweeter and juicier for your ice cream!
2. Mashing the Strawberries:
After the strawberries have sat for half an hour, it’s time to mash them! Use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries until they are partially pureed. You want to keep some small chunks for texture, so don’t over-mash them.
3. Mixing the Ice Cream Base:
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a smooth base for your ice cream.
4. Combining the Mixtures:
Add the mashed strawberries along with their juices to the cream mixture. Stir it all together to combine. If you want a little extra zing, add the tablespoon of lemon juice at this stage. It complements the strawberries nicely!
5. Churning the Ice Cream:
Now it’s time to make the ice cream! Pour the strawberry mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, churning the mixture until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on it!
6. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to firm up. This step is important to get that perfect scoopable ice cream consistency.
7. Serving Up Your Treat:
After the ice cream is properly frozen, it’s time to enjoy! Serve your homemade strawberry ice cream in bowls or waffle cones and savor this delightful treat. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor in your ice cream.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that this may result in a less creamy texture, so for the best flavor and consistency, consider sticking with heavy cream when possible.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To prevent ice crystals from forming, you can press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks!
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to stir in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or nuts during the last couple of minutes of churning. Just be sure not to overdo it, so you still get that lovely strawberry flavor.
