Craving a simple, sweet treat? Look no further than this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream! You only need a handful of ingredients to whip up a creamy delight that bursts with fresh strawberry flavor. Skip the ice cream maker and learn how to create this cool dessert at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with just a few easy steps! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: This ice cream captures the essence of summer with its fresh strawberries, ensuring every bite is bursting with natural sweetness.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Customizable Texture: The option to leave small strawberry chunks in the puree allows you to create a delightful texture that enhances the overall experience.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for gatherings or a special treat with family and friends, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a scoop of bliss!
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
You need 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Make sure to hull and slice them. Fresh strawberries give the ice cream a bright taste. They also add a lovely color. If you can, pick ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Granulated Sugar
Use 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. This sugar helps sweeten the strawberries and the cream. You will divide it into two parts. You use 1/4 cup to toss with the strawberries. The other 1/4 cup goes into the cream mixture.
Heavy Cream
You will need 2 cups of heavy cream. This cream makes the ice cream rich and smooth. It gives the ice cream a lovely texture. Whipping the cream well adds air, making it fluffy.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Add 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. This milk is thick and sweet. It helps create a creamy base for your ice cream. It also makes the ice cream easy to scoop.
Pure Vanilla Extract
Use 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Vanilla adds a wonderful flavor. It enhances the taste of the strawberries. Always choose pure vanilla for the best results.
Salt
Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Salt brings out the flavors of the ice cream. It makes each bite taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Macerating the Strawberries
Start by hulling and slicing 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Place them in a small bowl. Add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Gently stir to coat the strawberries. Let them sit for 15 minutes. This step helps the strawberries release their juice. You will see a sweet syrup form at the bottom.
Blending the Strawberry Puree
Next, take the macerated strawberries and transfer them to a blender. Puree the strawberries until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks for texture if you like. Set the strawberry puree aside for later.
Preparing the Ice Cream Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until it becomes light and fluffy. This base will give your ice cream a creamy feel.
Folding in the Strawberry Puree
Now, gently fold the strawberry puree into the ice cream base. Use a spatula or wooden spoon for this. Be careful not to overmix. You want to see swirls of strawberry in the mixture, which makes it pretty.
Freezing the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into a lidded container. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the container and place it in the freezer. Let the ice cream freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This helps it firm up nicely. Enjoy the sweet bliss of your homemade strawberry ice cream!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that creamy texture, use heavy cream. Whisk it well until it’s airy. This adds volume and makes your ice cream light. Don't overmix when adding the strawberry puree. You want to see swirls of pink. This keeps some strawberry chunks, which adds fun texture.
Sweetness Adjustment Options
Taste is key! If you want it sweeter, add more sugar. Start with one tablespoon. Mix it in and taste again. You can also use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. Just remember, the fruit adds natural sweetness too.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your ice cream in fun ways. Try waffle cones for a crunchy bite. Use chilled bowls to keep it cold. For a fancy touch, add fresh strawberry slices on top. A sprig of mint brightens the dish. It looks great and tastes even better!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Frozen strawberries can alter the consistency of the ice cream.
- Chill Your Bowl: Before mixing the ice cream base, chill your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps to maintain a cold temperature, aiding in the whipping process.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients like lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the strawberry flavor and add complexity.
- Storage Tips: To keep your ice cream fresh, store it in an airtight container and press a piece of parchment paper against the surface before sealing. This prevents ice crystals from forming.
Variations
Adding Other Fruits
You can switch things up by adding other fruits. Try using ripe peaches or blueberries. These fruits blend well with strawberries. Just replace half of the strawberries with your chosen fruit. Follow the same steps for maceration and blending. The result is a fruity mix that bursts with flavor.
Swirl in Chocolate or Nutella
For a chocolate twist, add a swirl of chocolate or Nutella. Once you mix in the strawberry puree, drizzle melted chocolate or Nutella on top. Use a knife or spatula to swirl it into the ice cream. This adds a rich touch that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Dairy-Free Option
If you want a dairy-free ice cream, you can easily make a swap. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Look for a dairy-free condensed milk for sweetness. Blend the coconut cream with the same ingredients. You’ll get a creamy treat that tastes just as good. Enjoy the flavors without the dairy!
Storage Info
Best Freezer Containers
I recommend using airtight containers to store your ice cream. Choose ones that are flat and shallow. This shape helps the ice cream freeze evenly. You can also use a loaf pan covered tightly with plastic wrap.
Shelf Life of No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
No churn strawberry ice cream lasts about 2 to 3 weeks in the freezer. After that, it may lose some flavor and texture. For best taste, enjoy it within the first week.
Thawing and Re-freezing Tips
When you want to enjoy your ice cream, take it out and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop. If you don’t finish it, put it back in the freezer right away. Avoid thawing and refreezing multiple times; it can affect the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just let them thaw first. Drain any extra liquid. Blend them the same way as fresh strawberries. This will keep your ice cream tasty and smooth. The flavor will be slightly different but still yummy.
How can I make this ice cream without heavy cream?
To make this ice cream without heavy cream, you can use coconut cream or whipped topping. Both options will give you a nice texture. Coconut cream adds a subtle coconut flavor, while whipped topping keeps it light. Just remember to adjust the sugar if needed.
What if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will soften it up a bit. You can also mix in a splash of milk to help it blend better. Next time, try freezing it for less time. This will help keep it creamy.
You now know how to make no churn strawberry ice cream. We covered key ingredients like fresh strawberries, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. I shared simple steps, from macerating strawberries to freezing the ice cream. Tips to adjust sweetness and achieve the right texture were included. You can even create fun variations with other fruits or chocolate.
Remember, storing your ice cream right helps keep it fresh. Enjoy making this treat! Your friends and family will love it.
