Description
Strawberries & Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup white chocolate, melted
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. 2. Blend half of the strawberries into a puree and mix into the cream mixture. 3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 4. Fold in the remaining chopped strawberries. 5. Transfer to a container and drizzle melted white chocolate over the top. 6. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
#StrawberryIceCream #CreamyDessert
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect ice cream every time. First, ensure all ingredients are cold before starting. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand whisk or stand mixer on low to combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk for 2-3 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Next, thoroughly wash and hull your strawberries. Chop them all, then blend exactly half into a smooth puree. Gently fold this puree into the cream base until uniformly pink. Pour the mixture into your pre-frozen ice cream maker bowl and churn. This typically takes 20-30 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Only then, fold in the remaining chopped strawberries by hand to preserve their texture. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, drizzle with melted white chocolate, and freeze.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your dessert presentation with these ideas. Serve scoops in chilled bowls or classic waffle cones. For a decadent touch, top with additional fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of crushed shortbread cookies, or a fresh mint leaf. This ice cream also makes a stunning topping for warm brownies or pound cake, creating a delightful hot-and-cold contrast. For a festive party, use it to create elegant ice cream sandwiches between two thin oatmeal cookies.
How-to Summary
Quickly recap the process: 1) Whisk cold cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla. 2) Puree half the strawberries and mix in. 3) Churn in an ice cream maker. 4) Fold in remaining chopped berries. 5) Drizzle with white chocolate and freeze until firm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes, though texture will differ. Pour the base into a shallow pan, freeze for 2 hours, then scrape with a fork to break up ice crystals. Repeat every 30 minutes for 3-4 cycles before adding berries and chocolate for the final freeze.
How long does homemade ice cream keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it’s best within 1-2 weeks. After that, it may develop ice crystals or lose its creamy texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
You can, but thaw and drain them completely first to avoid adding excess water, which makes the ice cream icy.
Why is my ice cream too hard?
This is often due to over-churning or insufficient sugar/fat. Ensure you stop churning at soft-serve stage and follow the recipe measurements precisely.
What can I use instead of white chocolate?
Dark or milk chocolate are excellent substitutes. For a lighter option, try a swirl of strawberry syrup or a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry powder.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm ingredients: This delays freezing and can affect texture.
- Adding all strawberries pureed: You’ll miss the delightful bursts of fresh fruit.
- Over-churning: Stop the machine as soon as the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Skipping the airtight container: This leads to freezer burn and ice crystals.
- Not letting it “ripen”: The 4-hour freeze is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
Conclusion
This Strawberries & Cream Ice Cream recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh flavors. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a professional-quality dessert at home that far surpasses anything from the store. The combination of sweet berry puree, juicy strawberry pieces, and rich white chocolate creates a perfectly balanced treat. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!