This Easy Creamy Lemon Ice Cream is a refreshing treat that’s super simple to make. All you need are some creamy ingredients and zesty lemons to brighten your day.
You’ll love how the tartness of the lemons mixes with the creaminess. Perfect for warm days—or anytime you need a sweet escape! I always keep some on hand, just in case of cravings! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This adds the rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or use coconut cream for a non-dairy version.
Whole Milk: Provides a smooth base. You can swap it out with almond milk or any other milk alternative if you want a dairy-free ice cream.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar works best, but you could use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener. Just adjust the quantity since they are sweeter than sugar.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh is always better! Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemons truly bring the best flavor. Zest is essential for that lemony kick!
How Do You Make Sure Your Ice Cream is Extra Creamy?
To achieve a dreamy texture, focus on the mixing and chilling steps. Make sure to whisk the sugar and lemon juice thoroughly to dissolve the sugar for a smooth base.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours; this ensures everything is cold before churning.
- When churning, make sure you don’t overmix; once it reaches soft-serve consistency, stop the machine!
Lastly, for a firmer texture, freeze the mixture for a few hours after churning. This way, you get that perfect scoop every time!
Easy Creamy Lemon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a chilling time of at least 2 hours before churning, and a freezing time of 3 hours for firming up. So, in total, you’ll need a few hours, but most of that is just waiting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This will help bring out the zesty flavor of the lemons!
2. Combine the Creamy Ingredients:
Next, add in the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract to your lemon mixture. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. You want to get that lovely creamy texture!
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This step is super important—it helps the flavors meld together and prepares the mixture for churning.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once your mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions—generally, it will take about 20-25 minutes to churn until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Keep an eye on it; it’s so fun to watch it transform!
5. Freeze for Firmness:
After churning, transfer your ice cream to an airtight container. Let it freeze for at least 3 hours to become firm and scoopable. Patience is key here, but your reward will be worth it!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to indulge, scoop your delicious creamy lemon ice cream into bowls or waffle cones. If you like, garnish with fresh lemon slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pretty presentation!
Enjoy this refreshing, creamy lemon ice cream that’s both simple and delightful! It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, especially on sunny days! 🍋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice?
Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemons offer a brighter, fresher flavor. If using bottled juice, be sure to look for 100% lemon juice without additives for the best taste!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir it every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours until it reaches your desired texture. This will give you a similar creamy consistency!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember that it may need a few minutes at room temperature to soften before scooping!
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Ice Cream?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in treats like crushed cookies, fresh berries, or chocolate chips right after churning. Just be sure not to add too much, or it might affect the texture!
