vanilla cherry ice cream recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best vanilla cherry ice cream recipe

I’ve been making this vanilla cherry ice cream recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in our household. The combination of creamy vanilla and sweet cherries is a match made in heaven, and it’s perfect for hot summer days when you need a cool treat.

I like to think that this recipe is a nod to my childhood, when my parents would take me to the local ice cream shop and I’d always get the cherry flavor. Now, I love making it at home with my own kids, and they can’t get enough of the cherry bits in the ice cream.

It’s a simple recipe that’s hard to mess up, but it’s also elegant enough to serve at dinner parties or family gatherings. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s relatively healthy compared to other ice cream options – we’re talking no added sugars or artificial flavors here!

My kids love helping me make it in the blender, and we always have fun experimenting with different types of cherries and vanilla extracts. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about measurements and mixing.

Plus, who doesn’t love a good excuse to eat ice cream for breakfast? (Just kidding, but wouldn’t that be amazing?)

Seriously though, this recipe has become a staple in our house, and I’m excited to share it with all of you today.

Vanilla Cherry Ice Cream

4.9 from 1461 votes

This homemade vanilla cherry ice cream is a delightful blend of creamy vanilla ice cream with a tangy cherry swirl. It’s perfect for a summer treat or a comforting dessert.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cherry Swirl

1 cup pitted cherries
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp lemon juice

For the Ice Cream

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
2Cook over medium heat until the cherries begin to break down and the mixture thickens.
3This should take about 10 minutes.
4Stir frequently to prevent burning.
5Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
6In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
7Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
8Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it is completely chilled.
9This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy ice cream.
10Once the ice cream base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
11This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
12The mixture will thicken and become lighter in color as it churns.
13While the ice cream is churning, pour the cooled cherry mixture into a separate container and mix well to ensure it is fully combined.
14If you prefer a smoother swirl, you can blend the cherries until smooth.
Set aside.
15Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
16Dollop the cherry mixture evenly over the ice cream and swirl it in with a knife or spoon.
17Cover the container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
18This step is important for achieving the best texture and flavor.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Ice cream maker
Freezer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use freshly pitted cherries and high-quality vanilla extract. Ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before churning to achieve the best results.

Watch Video Of How Vanilla Cherry Ice Cream Works

This vanilla cherry ice cream recipe is always a good idea – whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or just want a quick dessert after dinner. The best part?

It’s super easy to store: simply scoop into an airtight container and keep in the freezer until ready. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw slightly (or blend back into smoothness if you’ve got an immersion blender).

My kids love customizing their scoops with sprinkles or chopped nuts – what about you? What are some of your favorite toppings?

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Cherry Ice Cream

Q: What type of cherries should I use?

I recommend using fresh or frozen tart cherries for this recipe – they have a deeper flavor and hold up better to freezing than sweet cherries.

Q: Can I use other types of milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute almond milk or coconut milk if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.

Q: How do I prevent ice crystals from forming in my ice cream?

Avoid over-churning your mixture – it’s better to stop blending when the ingredients are just combined than to risk developing an icy texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

Yes! Simply pour your mixture into an airtight container and freeze for about 2 hours, then blend again until smooth.

Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No problem! You can use a regular blender or food processor instead – just be sure to stop blending frequently to scrape down the sides.

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