Homemade Gourmet Strawberry Ice Cream with Cream
Indulge in this creamy, dreamy homemade strawberry ice cream made with fresh ingredients and a touch of luxury. This gourmet recipe combines rich cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and juicy strawberries for a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- 1.5 liters (about 6 cups) whole milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons powdered milk (for added creaminess)
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/2 bar (about 100g) cream cheese (Philadelphia-style), softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sugar to taste (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- For the Strawberries:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and cubed
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar (optional, if strawberries need extra sweetness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
In a small bowl, toss the cubed strawberries with 1–2 tablespoons of sugar (if desired) to enhance their natural sweetness. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release their juices. Mash lightly with a fork or potato masher for a chunky texture, or blend partially for a smoother consistency. Set aside.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, powdered milk, and half-and-half cream until smooth and well combined.
Add the softened cream cheese and vanilla extract to the mixture. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding sugar if needed.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ice cream base for at least 1–2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This step ensures a smoother texture when churning.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 20–25 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
During the last 5 minutes of churning, gently fold in the prepared strawberries (reserving a few spoonfuls for layering, if desired). If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container, freeze for 1–2 hours, then whisk vigorously every 30 minutes until smooth and creamy.
5. Freeze to Set:
Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Swirl in the reserved strawberries for a marbled effect, if desired. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming, then seal the container and freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, until firm.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and garnish with additional fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Strawberry Variations: For a more intense strawberry flavor, puree half of the strawberries and fold them into the ice cream base before churning.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries and condensed milk. Taste the base before freezing to ensure it’s perfectly balanced.
- No Ice Cream Maker? If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and whisk every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours to break up ice crystals and achieve a creamy texture.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Homemade Gourmet Strawberry Ice Cream with warm brownies, shortbread cookies, or a slice of angel food cake for a delightful dessert combo. It’s also perfect on its own as a refreshing summer treat!
This Homemade Gourmet Strawberry Ice Cream with Cream is a luxurious twist on a classic favorite. With its creamy texture, fresh strawberry chunks, and rich cream cheese base, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Treat yourself to this homemade delight—it’s worth every bite!