This Easy Creamy Lemon Ice Cream is a lovely treat! With just a few ingredients, you get a deliciously smooth and zesty dessert that’s perfect for hot days.
You won’t be able to resist its fresh lemon flavor! I love to enjoy it after dinner on warm nights—it’s like a cool hug in a bowl! 🍦💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could substitute it with half-and-half, but it won’t be as creamy.
Whole Milk: Using whole milk keeps the ice cream smooth. You could switch to 2% milk, but it may alter the creaminess a bit.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is a must for sweetness and texture. For a healthier alternative, you can use honey or maple syrup, but this may impact the final flavor slightly.
Lemons: Fresh lemons truly shine here. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but the flavor may not be as vibrant. I recommend using real zest for the best taste!
Vanilla Extract: This adds a nice background flavor. For a twist, consider using lemon extract for even more lemony goodness!
How Do I Get the Smoothest Ice Cream Texture?
The key to a smooth ice cream is in how you mix and churn. Start by making sure your milk, sugar, and lemon zest blend well. Dissolving the sugar is crucial, so stir until you can’t see any grains. Make sure your ice cream maker is fully chilled before adding your mixture!
- Churn the mix in the ice cream maker for the recommended time. Over-churning can lead to a grainy texture.
- Transfer to a container to freeze and let it sit a bit to firm up nicely. Avoid putting it in the freezer right away; letting it chill a bit first aids in smoother ice cream.
Easy Creamy Lemon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, you’ll need at least 4 hours in the freezer to let it set properly. Overall, set aside about 4 hours and 30 minutes (including freezing time) to fully enjoy your creamy lemon ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl, add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Stir them together well until the sugar is completely dissolved—this is important for a smooth texture, so take your time!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, pour in the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s fully blended and smooth.
3. Churn the Mixture:
Now, pour your lemon mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. You want it to reach a soft-serve consistency, perfect for scooping!
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
Once done churning, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed well, and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours so it can harden up nicely.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After the waiting, scoop your creamy lemon ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy the fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s refreshing and delightful—enjoy every last scoop!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Lemon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Dairy in This Recipe?
While you can substitute low-fat milk or cream, it will affect the ice cream’s creaminess and texture. For the best results, I recommend sticking with heavy cream and whole milk for that rich, creamy base!
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best if consumed within a month but can last for up to 2-3 months. If you find it’s too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping!
Can I Make This Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! Just pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up any ice crystals until it’s creamy and set.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Lemon Ice Cream?
This lemon ice cream shines in bowls or cones, but you can also garnish it with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey to elevate its flavor. Enjoy it alongside a slice of lemon cake for a delightful dessert experience!
