This Easy Blender Strawberry Ice Cream is a sweet and refreshing treat made with just a few simple ingredients: ripe strawberries, cream, and a touch of sugar. It’s creamy and full of real fruit flavor!
You don’t even need an ice cream maker! Just toss everything in the blender, mix it up, and freeze. Perfect for hot days or any time you crave something cool and tasty! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe as they bring vibrant flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to use frozen ones, just thaw them first. Occasionally, I prefer blending in a few bananas for a different taste!
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream gives that rich, creamy texture. If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative.
Whole Milk: Whole milk ensures the ice cream is creamy. You can use 2% milk, but the texture will be slightly less rich. For a lactose-free version, almond milk or oat milk can do the trick, though the texture may differ.
Granulated Sugar: Sugar enhances the sweetness and helps with the ice cream’s texture. You could use honey or maple syrup as natural alternatives, but adjust them to taste since they are sweeter than sugar.
How Can You Make Creamier Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, no worries! Achieving a creamy texture is still super simple. The secret lies in stirring the mixture as it freezes.
- Every 30-40 minutes, take the ice cream out and stir it vigorously. This breaks up ice crystals and helps create a smoother texture.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow pan to help it freeze faster. A larger surface area means quicker freezing and easier stirring!
- After about 3-4 hours, it’ll be ready to scoop and enjoy. Trust me; with this method, you’ll still end up with delicious homemade ice cream!
Easy Blender Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep time. Then, you’ll need about 3-4 hours for the ice cream to freeze properly. It’s a great way to whip up a delicious treat with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Strawberries:
Start by placing the hulled and halved strawberries, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt into your blender. Blend everything together for around 30 seconds or until the strawberries are completely pureed, and the sugar is well dissolved. You want that lovely fruity goodness!
2. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Add the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the blender with the strawberry puree. Blend again until everything is smooth and nicely combined. You should have a beautifully creamy mixture ready to turn into ice cream!
3. Freeze the Mixture:
Pour the strawberry mixture into a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s sealed well. Place it in the freezer and set a timer for about 3-4 hours. To achieve the creamiest consistency, stir the mixture every 30-40 minutes to prevent ice crystals from forming. This step is super important for that perfect scoop!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ice cream is firm and ready, take it out from the freezer. Scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade strawberry delight! If you like, you can top it off with fresh strawberry slices or a mint leaf for a nice touch. Enjoy your refreshing treat!
FAQ for Easy Blender Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before blending. Frozen strawberries can make a delicious ice cream, but thawing helps achieve the right texture and flavor.
How Can I Reduce Sugar in This Recipe?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. Just remember to adjust to your taste as these alternatives can be sweeter!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within a week for optimal flavor and texture, but it can last up to a month. Just remember to let it sit out for a few minutes to soften before scooping!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Mix-Ins?
Definitely! You can mix in other fruits like bananas or blueberries for a different flavor. Adding chocolate chips or nuts can also give a delightful crunch. Just make sure to chop them small enough to blend smoothly!
