Description
This homemade Blueberry Ice Cream recipe is a creamy, refreshing treat made from fresh or frozen blueberries, cream, and milk. With a rich blueberry puree combined into a classic ice cream base, this dessert is perfect for warm days or any time you crave a fruity, smooth frozen delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Blueberry Mixture
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, enhances flavor)
Ice Cream Base
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries and 1/2 cup sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mash or Puree the Blueberries: Remove from heat and use a spoon to mash the berries slightly to release more juice. For a smoother texture, optionally puree the mixture in a blender or use an immersion blender.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice (optional), then set the blueberry mixture aside to cool completely.
- Make the Ice Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Combine Mixture and Base: Once the blueberry mixture has cooled to room temperature, fold it into the ice cream base, stirring gently until well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the combined mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly; this helps improve the ice cream texture when churning.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20-25 minutes, until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for 4-6 hours or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Scoop the firmed blueberry ice cream into bowls or cones and serve immediately, optionally topped with fresh blueberries or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries based on availability; frozen berries can be used directly from the freezer.
- Lemon juice enhances the blueberry flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Refrigerating the mixture before churning is important for a smooth, creamy texture.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until firm.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste depending on the sweetness of your blueberries and personal preference.
