Description
A creamy and refreshing homemade blueberry ice cream made with fresh or frozen blueberries, rich cream, and a hint of vanilla. This recipe balances the natural sweetness of blueberries with a smooth ice cream base, creating a delicious frozen treat perfect for summer days.
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, puree the mixture in a blender or use an immersion blender.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice (optional) to enhance the berry flavor, then set the blueberry mixture aside to cool.
- 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 dissolves completely.
- Combine Mixtures: 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. This chilling step is crucial for a creamier texture and better churning results.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes until the ice cream reaches 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 firm.
- Serve: Scoop the blueberry ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce.
Notes
- Using fresh or frozen blueberries works well; if frozen, no need to thaw before cooking.
- Lemon juice is optional but brightens the blueberry flavor.
- For a smoother ice cream, puree the blueberry mixture thoroughly before combining with the cream base.
- Chilling the mixture well before churning ensures better texture and prevents ice crystals.
- If an ice cream maker is not available, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
