Nothing screams summer more than a scoop of creamy, homemade strawberry ice cream. This sweet treat is a blend of fresh strawberries, honey, and buttermilk, creating a luscious dessert that’s perfect for warm days. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or love experimenting with new recipes, this ice cream will be a hit in any kitchen.
In this article, we will take you through an easy, step-by-step process to create your very own strawberry ice cream. Plus, we’ll offer tips and variations to help you personalize the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Ice Cream
Strawberry ice cream is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. What sets this recipe apart is its freshness and simplicity. By using just a few ingredients like fresh strawberries, buttermilk, and honey, you’ll get a flavor-packed dessert that feels light, smooth, and delicious.
Whether you’re serving it with cake or enjoying it on its own in a cone, this ice cream is guaranteed to impress. Plus, the fact that it’s homemade makes it even more special!
Prep and Chill Time
| Prep Time | Churn Time | Chill Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15-18 minutes | 4-6 hours | 6 hours 30 mins |
Ingredients for Strawberry Ice Cream
Here’s what you’ll need to make 1 quart of this creamy ice cream:
Full Ingredients List
- Strawberries – 2 cups, hulled
- Honey – 1/3 cup
- Strawberry jam or preserves – 3 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Buttermilk – 1 cup
- Heavy cream – 3/4 cup
Variation Suggestions: For a twist, you can add lemon zest for brightness or mix in chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Fresh mint also pairs beautifully with strawberries if you’re looking to enhance the freshness.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17 grams |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Fats | 7 grams |
| Sugars | 15 grams |
How to Make Strawberry Ice Cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Puree the Strawberries
In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries, honey, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base of the ice cream.
Step 2: Add Buttermilk and Cream
Add the buttermilk and heavy cream to the blender and blend until well combined. The mixture should have a thick but pourable consistency.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 15-18 minutes until the ice cream becomes thick and creamy.
Step 4: Freeze Until Firm
Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and let it freeze for 4-6 hours to set completely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop your strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy this homemade treat with your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Ice Cream
- Fresh Strawberries Are Key: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor. If possible, choose ripe, in-season berries for the sweetest and juiciest results.
- Chill the Bowl: Make sure your ice cream maker’s bowl is thoroughly chilled before using it. A well-frozen bowl ensures the ice cream churns properly and thickens to the right consistency.
- No Ice Cream Maker?: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring it every 30 minutes for about 3 hours to break up ice crystals.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry ice cream is delicious on its own, but here are some fun ways to serve it:
- With Fresh Berries: Garnish your ice cream with fresh strawberries or mixed berries for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Place a scoop between two chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies for a decadent ice cream sandwich.
- On Pie: Serve a scoop on top of strawberry pie, apple pie, or shortcake for a classic summer dessert combo.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or toasted coconut to make it extra indulgent.
Strawberry Ice Cream Variations
- Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream: For a creamy twist, fold in chunks of graham cracker and cream cheese after churning.
- Strawberry-Basil Ice Cream: Add a few finely chopped basil leaves to the mixture before churning for a refreshing, herbal take on this classic flavor.
- No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still enjoy this treat by folding the strawberry puree into whipped cream and freezing the mixture in a loaf pan.
Storage and Reheating
To Store: Keep your strawberry ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
To Soften: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Conclusion
Making your own strawberry ice cream at home is both simple and rewarding. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a smooth and creamy dessert that’s bursting with flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own, in a cone, or as part of a larger dessert, this ice cream is sure to be a hit.
