Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Freezing Time: 6–8 hours
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the green tops. Slice them into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add half of the sugar and the lemon juice. Stir well and allow the strawberries to sit for about 15–20 minutes. This process helps release their natural juices and enhances their sweetness.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Mixture
Mash the strawberries using a potato masher or blend them briefly if you prefer a smoother ice cream. Leave a few small fruit pieces if you enjoy bits of strawberry throughout the ice cream.
Step 3: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In another bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, remaining sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Fold the strawberry mixture into the cream mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and the mixture turns a beautiful light pink color.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. Chilling the base before freezing helps produce a creamier texture.
Step 6: Freeze
If using an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for 20–25 minutes.
If you do not have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for about 6–8 hours, stirring every 30–45 minutes during the first 3 hours to reduce ice crystals and improve creaminess.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. Garnish with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Ice Cream
- Use fully ripe strawberries for maximum flavor.
- Chill the mixture thoroughly before freezing.
- Heavy cream creates the richest and creamiest texture.
- Do not over-blend the strawberries if you enjoy fruit pieces.
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- For extra flavor, add small pieces of white chocolate or crushed cookies.
Storage
Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to two weeks. Press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to help prevent ice crystals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Ice Cream in waffle cones, bowls, or alongside brownies, pound cake, fruit pies, pancakes, or fresh berries. It also makes an excellent filling for ice cream sandwiches or milkshakes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Total Sugars: 25 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
- Calcium: 10% Daily Value
- Iron: 2% Daily Value