There’s something truly magical about making strawberry ice cream from scratch. The simple yet vibrant flavors of ripe, fresh strawberries combine beautifully with the rich creaminess of whole milk and heavy cream.
It’s the kind of treat that brings back memories of sunny afternoons, family picnics, and the joy of indulging in homemade sweets. With just six ingredients, you can create a luxurious ice cream that rivals any store-bought version, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Plus, the fact that you can control every ingredient means you can skip the artificial flavors and preservatives while enjoying all the fresh, natural goodness. I’ve always believed in the power of a good dessert to bring people together, and this strawberry ice cream does just that.
The natural sweetness of the strawberries, combined with a touch of vanilla and the richness of cream, makes it an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. If you’re in the mood to indulge a little further, why not pair it with these Cowboy Cookies or Banana Bread Cookies for a delightful dessert combo? The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility.
You can easily customize it, adding extra swirls of strawberry jam or a few chocolate chips for that extra touch. And the best part? It’s perfect for the warmer months, giving you a taste of summer no matter the season.
Why This Recipe Stand Out?
- Homemade magic: Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own ice cream. This recipe is simple and uses wholesome ingredients.
- Creamy and dreamy: The combination of fresh strawberries and heavy cream gives this ice cream a velvety texture you just can’t replicate in store-bought versions.
- Customizable: Whether you want to add chocolate chips, chunks of fruit, or a touch of jam, this recipe is incredibly adaptable.
- Perfect for all occasions: Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this strawberry ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser.
- No fuss: With just six ingredients and a simple process, it’s a straightforward recipe even beginners can master!
Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand whisk or electric mixer
- Ice cream maker (optional, but recommended)
- Freezer-safe container for storing ice cream
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed fresh strawberries
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 drops red food coloring Optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed strawberries and white sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt to the strawberry mixture. Mix until smooth.
- Optional: Add a few drops of red food coloring to enhance the color.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning.
- Once churned, transfer the ice cream into a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze the ice cream for about 4-6 hours or until firm.
- Once set, scoop and serve your homemade strawberry ice cream.
- Enjoy with your favorite toppings or alongside cookies!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 354kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Sugar | 31g |
| Sodium | 121mg |
Flavor-Packed Variations for Strawberry Ice Cream!
- Strawberry Swirl: For an added burst of flavor, swirl in some homemade or store-bought strawberry jam just before freezing. It adds a tangy contrast to the creamy base.
- Balsamic Vinegar & Honey: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar and honey over the strawberries before mashing them brings a sophisticated, slightly tangy depth to the ice cream. This adds complexity and a gourmet touch.
- Coconut Milk Substitute: For a dairy-free twist, swap the whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It’ll bring a tropical richness to the strawberry flavor.
- Roasted Strawberry Infusion: Try roasting the strawberries first with a little sugar until caramelized, then blending them into your base. This will bring out deeper, richer flavors and a subtle caramel note.
- Spiced Strawberry Ice Cream: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. The spice complements the fruity sweetness and creates a more layered, warm flavor.
- Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Incorporate dark or white chocolate chunks for a crunchy, indulgent twist. The chocolate’s bitterness balances the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
- Minty Fresh: For a refreshing spin, infuse the cream mixture with a few sprigs of fresh mint before mixing in the strawberries. Just strain it out before churning for a cool, minty flavor.
These variations take a classic strawberry ice cream and elevate it to something unexpected, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something a little more unique.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
