Try this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream for a deliciously flavorful and creamy treat! This ice cream, bursting with tastes of creamy vanilla and sweet cherries, is ideal as a cool dessert on a warm day.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🍒 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
- 🍬 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 🥛 2 cups heavy cream
- 🥛 1 cup whole milk
- 🥚 4 large egg yolks
- 🌿 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a touch of tartness)
📝 Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cherries:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have softened and released their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the cherry mixture cool. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the cherries slightly.
2️⃣ Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is just about to simmer (do not let it boil).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
- Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F or 77°C). Do not let it boil.
3️⃣ Add Flavorings:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using).
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4️⃣ Combine and Churn:
- Once the ice cream base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the cooled cherry mixture.
5️⃣ Freeze:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6️⃣ Serve:
- Scoop and enjoy your homemade cherry vanilla ice cream in bowls or cones.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Churning Time: 25-30 minutes
Freezing Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 7 hours
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to the ice cream base.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.