When it comes to indulging in a sweet treat, few things can compare to a cold, creamy scoop of homemade ice cream. With the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a wide variety of delicious flavors using your 4-quart ice cream maker. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From classic flavors like vanilla bean and strawberry cheesecake to unique twists like salted caramel pecan and bubblegum swirl, there’s something for everyone in our collection of creamy ice cream recipes.
So grab your mix-ins and get ready to churn out some deliciousness! Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or just starting out, these 20 irresistible recipes are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Experience the rich flavor of high-quality vanilla beans in this timeless ice cream recipe. This classic dessert is a perfect base for sundaes, milkshakes, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is just simmering.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and split vanilla bean. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the vanilla bean.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then churn according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Freeze the churned ice cream for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including steeping time)
Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream
Get ready to treat your taste buds with this decadent ice cream recipe, featuring a swirl of rich chocolate fudge throughout.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Once the ice cream is almost fully churned, drizzle the melted chocolate into the mixture and continue to churn until just combined.
6. Fold in the fudge sauce.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time) + freezing time
Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this creamy and dreamy strawberry cheesecake ice cream! This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of cheesecake, all wrapped up in a cool and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strawberry puree
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (for crust)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until dissolved.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Meanwhile, mix crushed graham crackers with softened cream cheese and granulated sugar.
5. Once ice cream is almost set, fold in cheesecake mixture.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including churning time)
Cookies and Cream Delight
Treat your family and friends to a sweet and creamy dessert that combines the best of cookies and ice cream!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 12-15 cookies)
– Whipped cream and additional Oreos for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies.
4. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Top with additional whipped cream and crushed Oreos, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours chilling time (or overnight)
Enjoy your Cookies and Cream Delight!
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this refreshing mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a unique and delicious treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a special dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the melted butter, peppermint extract, and salt to the mixture. Whisk until combined.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from the refrigerator and pour into an ice cream maker.
6. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration time: 2 hours or overnight; churning time: depends on ice cream maker)
Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream
A rich and creamy ice cream infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the sugars are dissolved.
2. Stir in sea salt, chopped pecans, and salted caramel sauce until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add vanilla extract.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)
Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
This creamy ice cream is infused with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, reminiscent of everyone’s favorite candy. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract to the mixture; whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and pour the mixture into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions, then fold in the chopped peanut butter cups.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-4 hours (depending on the ice cream maker)
Banana Pudding Ice Cream
Combine the warm weather with a cool and creamy treat – banana pudding ice cream! This recipe brings together the classic flavors of banana pudding and rich ice cream for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the bananas until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Add the banana puree to the saucepan and mix well.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: None (ice cream making time: approximately 20-30 minutes)
Coconut Mango Sorbet
Elevate your summer with this creamy and sweet Coconut Mango Sorbet recipe. With only a few ingredients, you can create a unique and delicious dessert that’s perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the mango until smooth.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, sugar, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the pureed mango to the coconut mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the water to thin out the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None needed! Let your sorbet maker do the work for you.
Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt
Brighten up your day with this delightful and tangy lemon blueberry frozen yogurt! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup blueberry puree (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Stir in the blueberry puree and vanilla extract.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-4 hours (depending on ice cream maker)
Pistachio Almond Ice Cream
Experience the perfect blend of nutty flavors with this creamy Pistachio Almond Ice Cream recipe. This refreshing dessert is ideal for warm weather, with a subtle pistachio flavor and crunchy texture from toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pistachios and sliced almonds. Let it steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including steeping time)
Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream
Rich and decadent, this Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream is a treat for coffee lovers and ice cream enthusiasts alike. Perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the brewed espresso and chocolate chips.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this unique flavor combination that combines the sweetness of blackberries with the subtle floral notes of lavender. This recipe yields a creamy, dreamy ice cream perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree
– 2 tbsp dried lavender buds
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine cream, milk, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in blackberry puree and lavender buds. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard lavender buds.
4. Chill the mixture thoroughly, then churn according to ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, stir in vanilla extract and transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream
Get ready to experience the sweet and gooey goodness of toasted marshmallows in a creamy ice cream! This unique flavor combines the classic campfire treat with rich vanilla ice cream, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted marshmallow caramello (or marshmallows toasted in a kitchen torch)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and toasted marshmallow caramello (or toasted marshmallows).
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (heating the mixture) + chilling time
Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the freshness of raspberries with the creaminess of ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup raspberry puree (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Stir in the raspberry puree and chopped fresh raspberries.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream
Capture the essence of fall with this creamy pumpkin spice ice cream recipe. Rich and velvety, it’s perfect for topping pies, cakes, or serving as a standalone treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
5. If desired, crush graham crackers and mix into the ice cream before serving.
Cooking Time: Churning time varies depending on machine; allow additional 2 hours for freezing.
Cherry Garcia-Inspired Ice Cream
Get ready to scoop up the nostalgic flavors of the 90s with this Cherry Garcia-inspired ice cream recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cherry syrup (or cherry flavoring)
– 1/4 cup crushed Fruity Pebbles cereal (optional, but totally tubular!)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and cherry syrup (or flavoring). Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add in the crushed Fruity Pebbles cereal (if using).
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and churn.
Tiramisu Ice Cream
Take your taste buds on a journey to Italy with this unique and delicious Tiramisu Ice Cream recipe. With the perfect balance of creamy coffee ice cream, crunchy ladyfingers, and sweet mascarpone cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 cup ladyfingers, crushed
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, coffee powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the ice cream is almost fully churned, fold in crushed ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and vanilla extract.
5. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time)
Maple Walnut Ice Cream
A classic flavor combination gets a creamy twist with this simple ice cream recipe. The rich sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the earthy crunch of walnuts, making for a delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the maple syrup and vanilla extract, whisking until combined.
3. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Remove from refrigerator and pour into an ice cream maker. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and store in freezer.
Cooking Time: None (chilling and freezing only)
Bubblegum Swirl Ice Cream
Get ready to transport your taste buds back to childhood with this playful and delicious ice cream recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup bubblegum syrup (or crushed bubblegum candies)
– Whipped cream and additional bubblegum candies for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once almost set, swirl in bubblegum syrup (or crushed candies) to create a marbled effect.
5. Transfer finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just let the magic happen
Summary
Indulge in the sweetest treats with these 20 irresistible creamy ice cream recipes perfect for your 4-quart ice cream maker. From classic flavors like Vanilla Bean and Chocolate Fudge Swirl to unique twists like Strawberry Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making Cookies and Cream Delight, Mint Chocolate Chip, or Salted Caramel Pecan for a treat that’s sure to please. And if you’re looking for a fruity or nutty fix, recipes like Banana Pudding, Coconut Mango Sorbet, or Pistachio Almond Ice Cream are just the ticket.