Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a delightful treat perfect for warm days or any time you crave something sweet. This homemade ice cream combines the rich, creamy flavor of vanilla with the fresh taste of strawberries, creating a dessert that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s served in a cone or in a bowl, this ice cream is sure to impress family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a pure and delicious flavor. This recipe is simple and features fresh strawberries, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties. Plus, there’s something special about creating a treat from scratch that just can’t be beaten!

How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup sugar
1 vanilla bean (or 2 tsp vanilla extract)
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled & mashed)
1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions:

Prepare the Base: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, and sugar until dissolved. Scrape the vanilla bean seeds into the mixture and stir well.
Add Strawberries: Mash the strawberries with lemon juice and fold them into the ice cream base. Chill for at least 2 hours.
Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
Freeze & Serve: Transfer to a container, freeze for 3-4 hours, then scoop and enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is best served in bowls or cones. You can top it with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special treat. It also makes a great addition to milkshakes or Sundaes!

How to Store Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

To keep your ice cream fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It can stay good for about 2-3 weeks but is best enjoyed within the first week for optimal flavor and texture. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Tips to Make Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Make sure to chill the mixture thoroughly before churning, as this will help create a smooth texture.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding your favorite fruits like blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries before mashing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess juice before mashing.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make ice cream by freezing the mixture in a shallow container and stirring it every 30 minutes until it’s creamy.
How do I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a delicious dairy-free version of this ice cream.