You don’t need a fancy ice cream machine to make ice cream at home. You can actually just use a blender and a few basic ingredients. This is a great method for vanilla, chocolate, and any fruit-based ice cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Skip if making chocolate or fruit flavors)
- A pinch of salt
- For fruit-based flavors: 2 cups frozen fruit
- For chocolate ice cream: 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Tools You’ll Need
- A high-powered blender
- A freezer-safe container
- A spatula
Here’s how to make ice cream in a blender:
Step 1: Blend the Base
Pour the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt into the blender. Blend on medium speed until the sugar fully dissolves. This will be your base. If you are making fruit or chocolate ice cream, add those ingredients now and blend until smooth.
Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
Pour the blended mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container. A baking dish or metal loaf pan works best. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
Step 3: Stir Every 30 Minutes
After about 30 minutes, take the container out and stir the ice cream with a spoon or spatula. This helps break up ice crystals so it stays smooth and creamy. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3 hours. You’ll have to do this around 5-6 times.
Step 4: Let It Fully Set
After stirring 5-6 times, let the ice cream sit in the freezer for another 1-2 hours until firm. Once it’s firm, scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Ice Cream
Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder when blending the base. You can also mix in chocolate chips for added texture.
Strawberry Ice Cream
Replace half of the milk with 1 cup of frozen strawberries. Blend until smooth.
Banana Ice Cream
Use 2 frozen bananas instead of sugar. Add some peanut butter or white chocolate chips as well. Super yummy combination.
Coffee Ice Cream
Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder while blending the base. Add some caramel syrups if you want it a bit sweeter.
Tips for the Best Ice Cream
- For extra creaminess, blend in 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk.
- If you want it softer, add 1 tablespoon of corn syrup when making the base.
- Use only full-fat ingredients. Toned or fat-free milk will give you ice crystals.
How Long Does Homemade Ice Cream Last?
Homemade ice cream stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! Homemade ice cream with just a blender—easy, creamy, and delicious.
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