Description
This luscious Blueberry Ice Cream recipe combines fresh or frozen blueberries with a creamy, vanilla-infused base to create a refreshing and indulgent frozen dessert. With a simple stovetop preparation of the blueberry compote and classic ice cream churning, it delivers a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy texture ideal for warm weather treats or anytime you crave a homemade dessert.
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 (for the ice cream base)
- 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 Berries: Remove from heat and use a spoon to mash the berries slightly to release more juice. For a smoother texture, you can puree the mixture in a blender or use an immersion blender.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the optional lemon juice to enhance the flavor, then set the blueberry mixture aside to cool completely.
- Make the Ice Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Combine Mixtures: Once the blueberry mixture has cooled to room temperature, gently fold it into the ice cream base, mixing until well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the combined mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to chill thoroughly which helps in achieving a creamier texture after 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 the ice cream thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for 4-6 hours or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Scoop the blueberry ice cream into bowls or cones, optionally adding toppings of your choice, and enjoy this refreshing homemade dessert.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, puree the blueberry mixture completely before folding into the ice cream base.
- Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of your blueberries and personal preference.
- Lemon juice is optional but helps brighten the flavor.
- Make sure the mixture is well chilled before churning to improve texture.
- If you do not have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture and stir every 30 minutes until firm.
- Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American