Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a delightful treat that combines the sweet taste of fresh strawberries with the rich and creamy flavor of vanilla. Perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet ending to any meal, this homemade ice cream is sure to please your family and friends.

Why make this recipe?

Making Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream at home allows you to enjoy a fresher and more flavorful version compared to store-bought varieties. You can control the ingredients, ensuring there are no artificial additives. Plus, the joy of churning ice cream with your loved ones adds to the fun of this delicious dessert! 🍓🍦

How to prepare Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

To prepare Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, you’ll need to gather your ingredients and follow a few simple steps. The process involves heating the cream and milk, mixing in the sugar and vanilla, and then folding in those lovely strawberries. The best part? You’ll be rewarded with a creamy and delectable treat once it’s chilled!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream 🥛
• 1 cup whole milk 🥛
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar 🍚
• 1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped) or 2 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped) 🍓
• 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
2. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from heat and stir in the scraped vanilla bean seeds or vanilla extract.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped strawberries and lemon juice. Mash them lightly with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. After the cream mixture has chilled, pour it into your ice cream machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. When the ice cream starts to thicken, gently fold in the strawberry mixture.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

How to serve Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Serve your Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream in bowls or cones, and top with additional fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat! 🍫🍓

How to store Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within a couple of weeks for optimal freshness, but can last for up to a month. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture! ❄️

Tips for preparing Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

• Ensure the cream mixture is completely chilled before churning for the best results.
• Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• If you don’t have an ice cream machine, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations

• Add a swirl of strawberry puree or a scoop of strawberry jam for extra flavor.
• Mix in some crushed graham crackers or cookie pieces for a crunchy texture.
• Substitute the strawberries with raspberries or peaches for a different fruity twist! 🍑

FAQs

1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream machine?
Yes! You can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

2. How long does it take for the ice cream to freeze?
After churning, the ice cream needs to freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up properly.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the ice cream mixture to avoid excess moisture.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream! 🍦✨