You know those sultry summer days when you just want something sweet, cold, and oh-so-refreshing? That’s when I whip out my ultimate secret weapon: No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream! This is hands down one of my favorite desserts to make, and let me tell you, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. I fondly remember the first time I made it for a family BBQ a few summers ago. One scoop turned into two, and before I knew it, the entire tub had disappeared – and honestly, I was not even mad about it!
What’s great about this ice cream is that it doesn’t require an ice cream maker, so it’s super convenient. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins or using whatever fruit is in season. Let’s dive into what makes this treat so spectacular!
What’s in No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream?
Let’s take a look at the glorious ingredients that come together to make this sweet treat:
Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show! I prefer using ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor – they’re perfect for that fruity punch. You can also swap them for other berries if you like a mixed berry flavor.
Condensed Milk: This is where the creaminess comes from! Sweetened condensed milk adds the perfect sweetness and helps achieve that luscious, scoopable texture. I usually go for the Eagle Brand; it’s always a hit!
Heavy Cream: The backbone of any good ice cream, heavy cream ensures a rich and smooth consistency. It’s the magic ingredient that makes your ice cream decadently creamy.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla ties all the flavors together beautifully. I’m a huge fan of using pure vanilla extract – a little goes a long way!
Is No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Good for You?
While we all know ice cream is more of a treat than a health food, there are some definite perks to this recipe!
Fresh Strawberries: These beauties are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a tasty and nutritious addition. Plus, they can help satisfy that sweet tooth in a guilt-free way!
Heavy Cream and Condensed Milk: Now, I won’t sugarcoat it (pun intended!); these are rich and high in calories. Moderation is key, but hey, life is too short to skip dessert sometimes, right?
Overall, this delightful ice cream is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, paired with good vibes and summer memories!
Ingredients List
This recipe will serve about 6-8 people, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!)!
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
How to Make No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream?
Let’s get this frozen fiesta underway with these easy peasy steps:
1. **Prepare the Strawberries**: Start by placing the chopped strawberries in a bowl. If you like, you can mash them slightly with a fork to release their juices. Feel free to add a teaspoon of sugar if they need a little extra sweetness!
2. **Whip the Cream**: In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy cream and whip it using a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form. It should be fluffy and hold its shape – this is what gives the ice cream its incredible texture!
3. **Combine & Mix**: Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want all that airiness to remain!
4. **Fold in the Strawberries**: Add your prepared strawberries into the cream mixture, and fold them in gently until evenly combined.
5. **Transfer to a Container**: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or a freezer-safe container, spreading it out evenly. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer.
6. **Freeze It Up**: Let it chill in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely set (overnight is ideal if you can wait!).
7. **Scoop and Enjoy**: Once it’s frozen, dive in with a scoop and enjoy the delightful, creamy wonder that is homemade ice cream!
Sweet Variations and Tips for Perfect Ice Cream
Here are some fun ideas to tailor this recipe to your taste!
– **Swap Out the Fruit**: Try bananas, blueberries, or peaches for a twist.
– **Mix-Ins Galore**: Want a surprise crunch? Add crushed graham crackers or chocolate chips to the mix for some added texture.
– **Serve It Right**: For a fancy treat, serve scoops of your ice cream in cones or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce!
I think you’re going to fall in love with this simple yet oh-so-delicious No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream. There’s something about making this at home that feels extra special, and it’s perfect for any gathering or just enjoying a quiet moment for yourself. So grab those strawberries and get to whipping – I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!
