Indulge in the sweet and refreshing taste of summer with this homemade strawberry sensation ice cream. Creamy, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, and perfect for a hot day!
Ingredients:
- For the Strawberry Base:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and soften (about 5-7 minutes).
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the strawberries until smooth.
- Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, if desired.
- Let the strawberry puree cool completely.
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, and salt.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool the cream mixture completely.
- Combine and Chill:
- Once both the strawberry puree and the cream mixture are completely cooled, combine them in a large bowl.
- Whisk thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
- Chill the combined mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is very important, because it allows the base to fully cool, and for the flavors to meld.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the chilled ice cream mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-30 minutes).
- Freeze and Enjoy:
- Once the ice cream is churned to a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
- Smooth the top and cover tightly.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Scoop and enjoy your homemade Strawberry Sensation Ice Cream!
Optional additions:
- For a richer flavor, add a few drops of pink food coloring.
- For added texture, gently fold in diced fresh strawberries or white chocolate chips into the ice cream after churning and before freezing.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.