Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Name: Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: PT-486635H54M8S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups strawberries (hulled and diced); 2 tablespoons honey; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup half and half; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Published: July 7, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This homemade strawberry ice cream requires minimal effort and just a few ingredients.
Fresh Flavors: Using ripe strawberries ensures a burst of flavor in every scoop.
Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it on its own or as an accompaniment to pies and cakes.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the sweetness or add other fruits based on your preference.
No Churn Option: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream using a few simple steps.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious homemade strawberry ice cream, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that creamy texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Ice cream maker
Large mixing bowl
Potato masher or fork
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Ice cream maker: Churns the mixture evenly, helping to incorporate air for a light texture.
Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills.
Potato masher or fork: Perfect for mashing strawberries to your desired consistency.

Ingredients

This Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream is creamy, dreamy, and made with fresh strawberries. This homemade Strawberry Ice Cream recipe is incredibly easy, making it the perfect spring and summer dessert!

For the Ice Cream

1 1/2 cups strawberries, hulled and diced
2 Tbsp honey
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup half and half
1 tsp vanilla extract

Servings: 3 (3 cups)
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

In a large bowl, mix strawberries, honey, sugar, and lemon juice. Allow this mixture to sit for about 15-20 minutes until the strawberries release their juices.

Step 2: Mash the Strawberries

Using a potato masher or fork, mash the mixture until there are no large pieces of strawberry left. For smoother ice cream, consider using a blender or food processor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add heavy cream, half and half, and vanilla extract to the mashed strawberries. Stir gently until everything is combined but not over-mixed.

Step 4: Churn the Mixture

Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions—typically churning takes about 15-20 minutes. You can enjoy it soft-serve style right away or transfer it to an airtight container.

Step 5: Freeze or Serve

If you prefer firmer ice cream, freeze in an airtight container for about 3-4 hours. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Scoop out your homemade strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones and savor each delicious bite!

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Serving Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream can be a delightful experience for everyone. There are numerous ways to enjoy this creamy treat, each adding its unique flair.

In a Waffle Cone

A classic choice, waffle cones provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ice cream.

With Fresh Fruit Toppings

Top your ice cream with additional strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to enhance freshness and flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

Adding warm chocolate sauce creates a delicious contrast of flavors and adds an indulgent touch.

Served with Mint Leaves

Garnishing your ice cream with fresh mint leaves not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing taste.

In a Sundae

Create a sundae by layering your Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream with whipped cream, nuts, and cherry on top for a fun dessert.

On Pancakes or Waffles

Serve your ice cream as a topping on pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast twist!

How to Perfect Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

To achieve the best results when making Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream, consider these helpful tips.

Use ripe strawberries: Selecting fully ripened strawberries ensures that your ice cream will have maximum flavor and sweetness.
Chill all ingredients: Make sure that your heavy cream and half-and-half are chilled before mixing; this helps in achieving a smoother texture.
Avoid over-churning: Keep an eye on the churning process in the ice cream maker. Over-churning can lead to an icy texture instead of creamy.
Add lemon juice: Including lemon juice brightens the strawberry flavor and balances sweetness.
Store properly: For optimal texture, store your ice cream in an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and maintains its creamy consistency.
Let it soften before serving: Allowing your ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes makes scooping much easier!

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft and chewy cookies complement the creamy texture of the ice cream perfectly.
Brownie Bites: Rich and fudgy brownie bites add depth to the lightness of strawberry ice cream.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits acts as a light counterbalance to the sweet ice cream.
Pound Cake Slices: Serve slices of buttery pound cake as a base for the ice cream for added richness.
Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and strawberry ice cream for a fun twist on dessert.
Shortcakes: Classic strawberry shortcakes make an excellent pairing, letting you enjoy both textures together!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade strawberry ice cream can be simple, but a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Not using fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor. Frozen berries can alter the texture and taste of your homemade strawberry ice cream. Always opt for ripe, seasonal strawberries.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the strawberry mixture to sit helps release juices and enhances flavor. Skipping this step may lead to a less vibrant taste.
Over-churning the mixture: If you churn the ice cream too long, it can become grainy rather than creamy. Monitor the consistency and stop churning once it thickens to a soft-serve texture.
Incorrect storage container: Using an airtight container is crucial for maintaining freshness. Avoid using containers that allow air in, as this can cause freezer burn and affect flavor.
Serving straight from the freezer: Homemade strawberry ice cream may be too hard right out of the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal scoopability.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Homemade strawberry ice cream will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Use a well-sealed container to prevent freezer burn.
It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
For best texture, consume within one week.

Reheating Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Oven: Not recommended, as heat will melt the ice cream unevenly.
Microwave: Use short intervals on low power to soften slightly, being careful not to melt.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat while stirring gently until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make homemade strawberry ice cream with frozen strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries, but remember they should be thawed first. Blend them until smooth before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I customize my homemade strawberry ice cream?

Absolutely! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of fudge for extra flavor and texture.

Why is my homemade strawberry ice cream icy?

If your mixture has too much water from the strawberries or isn’t churned enough, it might become icy. Ensure proper blending and churning times for a creamy result.

How do I achieve a smoother texture in my homemade strawberry ice cream?

To get a smoother texture, consider blending your strawberry mixture until fully pureed before combining with creams. This reduces chunks and creates a silkier finish.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream is not just an easy treat; it also offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you enjoy it plain or enhance it with toppings, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or add-ins to make it uniquely yours! Try this delightful recipe today and savor every creamy bite!

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