This creamy ice cream is made with rich brown sugar and sweet cinnamon, giving it a warm and cozy flavor. It’s perfect for hot days or as a fun treat!
Making this ice cream is super simple! Just mix, chill, and churn. I love enjoying it on its own or with some warm pie—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but it may be less creamy.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, granulated sugar works too, but you might miss that rich taste. You could even try coconut sugar for a different twist.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for that warm flavor. If you want a little variety, you could use a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg or even pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal touch.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, try full-fat coconut milk for a creamy alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream is Creamy and Not Icy?
The key to avoiding icy ice cream is in the mixing and chilling. Start by mixing the sugar with the milk well until it’s fully dissolved; this helps with texture. Chilling the base before churning is important too; this allows for a smoother texture when freezing.
- Whisk carefully to ensure no lumps.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; this step is crucial for the creaminess.
- Churn until it’s soft-serve consistency but don’t over-churn, or it may get grainy.
How to Make Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours to chill the mixture, and another 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. If you want firmer ice cream, remember to freeze it for 2-4 hours after churning. Overall, plan for about 3-4 hours including chilling and freezing time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re nicely mixed.
2. Adding the Milk:
Pour in the whole milk and whisk again until the brown sugar has completely dissolved. This will ensure your ice cream is sweet and creamy without any gritty bits.
3. Incorporating the Cream:
Next, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the milk mixture. Stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well combined. This will create your ice cream base.
4. Chilling the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. If you can, chilling it overnight will enhance the flavor and texture!
5. Churning the Ice Cream:
Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker. Churn it according to your machine’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve texture.
6. Freezing for Firmness:
If you prefer a firmer ice cream, transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, seal it, and freeze it for an additional 2-4 hours.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the delicious brown sugar cinnamon ice cream into cones or bowls. Feel free to serve it plain or with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the cozy, sweet flavors!
FAQ About Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
While you can substitute low-fat milk, keep in mind that it will result in a less creamy texture. For the best flavor and creaminess, whole milk or half-and-half is recommended. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk works wonderfully!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
You can store leftover ice cream in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just keep it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, granulated sugar can be used instead, but the flavor will be different. You could also use coconut sugar for a similar flavor profile, but expect a slight difference in texture and sweetness.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish, place it in the freezer, and stir every 30 minutes until smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 2-3 hours. This will help break up any ice crystals that form.
