Nothing says summertime bliss quite like a bowl of homemade strawberry ice cream. With its vibrant color, sweet aroma, and fresh berry flavor, this classic treat is a celebration of simple ingredients and pure joy. Whether you’re cooling off on a sunny day or just craving something fruity and refreshing, this creamy dessert is sure to hit the spot.
Forget store-bought versions with artificial flavorings—this homemade version is loaded with real strawberries, a touch of lemon, and the perfect balance of creaminess and sweetness. Let’s dive into this dreamy recipe that’ll make you feel like you’re biting into a spoonful of sunshine.
🍦 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: Uses real strawberries for that authentic berry burst.
- Ultra Creamy: A custard-style base ensures a silky, rich texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect to prep in advance for parties or indulgent evenings.
- Customizable: Add mix-ins like crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or swirl in strawberry jam.
🍓 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 egg yolks
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Macerate the Strawberries
In a bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with ¼ cup of sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This brings out the natural juices and sweetness.
2. Blend and Chill
After macerating, blend half the strawberries into a puree. Set aside the rest to fold in later. Refrigerate the puree until ready to use.
3. Make the Custard Base
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and cream. Heat until just steaming—do not boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining sugar. Slowly add a ladle of the hot cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the pan.
Cook gently, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 170–175°F).
4. Strain and Cool
Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to ensure it’s silky smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it begins to firm up, add the strawberry puree and reserved chopped berries.
6. Freeze Until Set
Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for 4–6 hours or until scoopable.
🍨 Tips for Perfect Strawberry Ice Cream
- Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the most flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Chill your base thoroughly to ensure it churns properly and freezes evenly.
- Want a no-churn option? Whip 2 cups of heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold in sweetened condensed milk and strawberry puree. Freeze overnight.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them first. You may want to reduce the maceration time since frozen berries release more liquid.
Do I need an ice cream maker?
It helps achieve a smooth texture, but you can use the no-churn method by folding whipped cream into a sweet base and freezing it.
How long does it last in the freezer?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1–2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture. Keep it tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can, but sugar not only sweetens—it also helps with the texture. Reducing it too much may result in icier ice cream.
🍓 Conclusion: A Scoop of Summer in Every Bite
Homemade strawberry ice cream is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic, creamy experience that captures the magic of summer. With just a few wholesome ingredients and a little love, you’ll create a refreshing treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you serve it in cones, bowls, or alongside a slice of cake, this frozen favorite is guaranteed to be a hit.
So grab those fresh berries and get churning—your taste buds will thank you. 💕
