This easy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is creamy and sweet with a warm hint of spice. It’s perfect for warm days or anytime you need a sweet treat!
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix the ingredients, freeze, and enjoy! Trust me, once you taste it, you won’t want to share—good luck keeping it a secret! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Sugar: This is the star of the recipe, adding delicious caramel notes. If you run out, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses as a substitute. The flavor won’t be identical, but it’ll still be tasty!
Heavy Cream: For that rich texture, heavy cream is essential. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the ice cream may not be as creamy. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream can also work well!
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives a nice creamy consistency. If you want a lower fat option, consider using 2% milk, though it may affect the creaminess. Almond milk can be used for dairy-free, but be aware it may make the ice cream a bit icier.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is what gives this ice cream its warm flavor. For a twist, try using fresh grated nutmeg or even pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile!
What’s the Best Way to Churn Ice Cream Without a Machine?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still enjoy homemade ice cream! First, mix your ingredients as usual and pour them into a shallow dish. Then, place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals until it’s creamy (about 2-3 hours total).
This method mimics the churning process and will result in a smooth texture. It just takes a bit more time and attention, but the result is totally worth it!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, allow at least 4 hours for freezing until it’s firm. So, you’re looking at roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes total, but most of that time is just waiting while it freezes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. It’s important to get this part right so that the sugar dissolves well in the cream.
2. Combining with Cream:
Next, pour in the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture looks smooth and creamy. You want the sugar to blend well with the liquid so every scoop is sweet!
3. Churning the Mixture:
Now it’s time for some fun! Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
4. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Once churned, transfer the soft ice cream to an airtight container. Seal it up and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to firm up. This patiently waiting part will be worth it!
5. Preparing to Serve:
Before serving up your delicious ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make scooping easier. It should be creamy but not too hard.
6. Enjoying Your Treat:
Scoop out the ice cream into waffle cones or bowls and dig in! Enjoy the sweet flavor and that lovely cinnamon warmth. It’s perfect as a snack or a dessert after meals!
This creamy, sweet ice cream with delightful cinnamon warmth is a treat for any occasion. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sugar?
Absolutely! While brown sugar gives a rich, caramel flavor, you can use granulated white sugar if that’s what you have. Just note that the taste will be slightly different—less depth and no molasses flavor.
How Long Does the Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Your homemade ice cream can last about 2-3 weeks in the freezer when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep it sealed well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Add Mix-ins Like Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Definitely! Add your favorite mix-ins during the last 5 minutes of churning for them to distribute evenly throughout your ice cream. Just keep in mind that this may affect the texture slightly.
How Can I Thaw Ice Cream if It’s Too Hard?
If your ice cream is too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will soften it enough to make scooping easier without melting it!
