Let me tell you, my friends, this no churn ice cream is a total game changer! I mean, who doesn’t love creamy, dreamy ice cream without the fuss of an ice cream maker? This recipe is ridiculously simple and perfect for those hot summer days or whenever you’re craving something sweet. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of rich, velvety ice cream that’s incredibly versatile. Trust me, once you try this no churn ice cream, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with anything else!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How to Prepare No Churn Ice Cream
Making this no churn ice cream is such a breeze, and I can’t wait to walk you through it! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready to freeze in no time. It’s all about getting that perfect texture and flavor, so let’s dive in!
Step 1: Whip the Heavy Cream
First up, grab your trusty mixing bowl and a whisk (or mixer if you want to save some arm workout!). Pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream and whip it until stiff peaks form. This is super important, as it’s what gives your ice cream that light and fluffy texture. You want it to hold its shape but not be over-whipped—nobody likes butter-flavored ice cream!
Step 2: Mix the Condensed Milk
In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir it gently until they’re blended into a smooth mixture. This is where the magic happens, as the sweetened condensed milk adds that rich creaminess we all crave in ice cream. You’ll love how easy this part is!
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture using a spatula or a large spoon. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream—this is what keeps your ice cream fluffy and light. Keep folding until everything is just combined; a few streaks are totally fine!
Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, now’s the time to stir in those optional chocolate chips or any other mix-ins you love! Whether it’s crushed cookies, fruit pieces, or nuts, just fold them in gently so they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Yum!
Step 5: Freeze the Mixture
Finally, transfer your ice cream mixture into a loaf pan or any airtight container. Smooth the top down, cover it with plastic wrap, and pop it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or until it’s firm. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first scoop! Enjoy your homemade no churn ice cream!
Variations of No Churn Ice Cream
One of the best things about this no churn ice cream is how easy it is to customize! You can switch up the flavors and textures to match your mood or the season. Let’s talk about some fun variations that will take your homemade ice cream to the next level!
Flavor Substitutions
If vanilla isn’t your jam, don’t worry! You can easily swap it out for almond or mint extract for a delightful twist. Just a teaspoon of almond extract will give it a lovely nutty flavor, while mint will transport you to a refreshing summer day. You can even mix and match—maybe a little almond and a touch of chocolate for a dreamy combination!
Texture Add-ins
Now, let’s get creative with texture! Consider adding crushed cookies like Oreos or graham crackers to the mix for a satisfying crunch. You can fold in fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for bursts of flavor. And if you’re feeling artistic, try layering different flavors in your container for a gorgeous marbled effect—just spoon dollops of your favorite flavors and swirl them together. It’s like painting with ice cream!
Tips for Success
To get the best results with your no churn ice cream, there are a couple of tips you’ll want to keep in mind! First, achieving the right consistency is key. When whipping your heavy cream, make sure to stop when you reach stiff peaks. This means it should hold its shape without being grainy. Gently folding the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture is also crucial—use a spatula and fold from the bottom up, turning the bowl as you go. This way, you keep that light, airy texture that makes your ice cream dreamy!
Achieving the Right Consistency
Properly whipping the cream ensures your ice cream has that fluffy, luxurious mouthfeel. If the cream is under-whipped, your ice cream may end up icy instead of creamy. Over-whipping can lead to a butter-like texture, which we definitely want to avoid! So, whip just until you see those stiff peaks, and then gently fold it in to preserve all that wonderful air you’ve incorporated.
Freezing Tips
For the best freezing results, make sure your ice cream is in an airtight container. This prevents ice crystals from forming, which can ruin that smooth texture we love. If you can, cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container—this extra layer helps keep it nice and creamy. Also, try to freeze your ice cream at the back of the freezer where it’s coldest, and avoid frequent opening of the freezer door to maintain a consistent temperature. Happy freezing!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that the nutritional information provided for this no churn ice cream is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. I always recommend checking the labels of your products for the most accurate information. The values listed are intended to give you a general idea about serving sizes and nutritional content, but they shouldn’t be taken as precise measurements. Enjoy your ice cream with the knowledge that you’re indulging in a delicious treat!
FAQ About No Churn Ice Cream
Can I Use Different Milk Alternatives?
While this no churn ice cream recipe is designed to work best with heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, you can experiment with alternatives! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, but keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit. Just ensure that whatever milk alternative you use has a similar consistency to heavy cream for the best results.
How Long Can I Store No Churn Ice Cream?
Your homemade no churn ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent ice crystals from forming. If you leave it longer, it may start to lose its creamy texture and flavor, so I recommend enjoying it within that timeframe!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version of this no churn ice cream, swap the sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free version, which you can find at many grocery stores, or make your own using coconut milk and a sweetener. Use full-fat coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a rich texture. This way, you can still indulge while sticking to your dietary needs!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up your delicious no churn ice cream, it’s time to serve it up in style! I love pairing it with warm desserts like brownies or a slice of homemade pie for a delightful contrast. You can also scoop it into a crispy waffle cone for an ice cream shop experience right at home! Don’t forget to top it off with some drizzles of chocolate or caramel sauce, and maybe a sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh fruit for extra flair. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this treat!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (one large for whipping cream and another for mixing)
- Whisk or electric mixer (for whipping the heavy cream)
- Spatula (for folding mixtures together)
- Loaf pan or airtight container (for freezing the ice cream)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate ingredient measurements)
No Churn Ice Cream: 5 Simple Steps to Sweet Perfection
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy no churn ice cream that requires no ice cream maker.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully combined.
- Add chocolate chips if desired and fold them in.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or airtight container.
- Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
Notes
- For different flavors, replace vanilla with almond or mint extract.
- Add crushed cookies or fruits for texture variations.
- Try layering different flavors for a marbled effect.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Churn
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: no churn ice cream, homemade ice cream, easy ice cream recipe
