Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the main ingredient – strawberries. It’s important to use ripe and juicy strawberries to achieve the best flavor. Look for berries that are bright red and fragrant. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, you can also use frozen strawberries, which still pack plenty of flavor.
To start, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 cups of heavy cream
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Now, let’s get started with the recipe!
Step 1: Rinse the strawberries well and remove the green stems. Cut them into smaller pieces and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle half of the sugar over the strawberries and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process will help draw out the natural juices and enhance the flavor.
Step 2: After the strawberries have macerated, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree. If you prefer small chunks of strawberries in your ice cream, you can pulse the mixture instead.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.
Step 4: Now it’s time to combine the strawberry puree with the cream mixture. Pour the strawberry puree into the cream mixture and whisk until well incorporated.
Step 5: At this point, you’ll need an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the ice cream. Typically, it takes about 20-25 minutes for the mixture to freeze and achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Once the strawberry ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to a lidded container. Place the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
Step 7: After the ice cream has fully frozen, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Scoop the strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones, and garnish with fresh strawberries for an extra touch.
Homemade strawberry ice cream is a simple yet delightful dessert that will surely impress your family and friends. By following this easy recipe, you can create your own creamy and flavorful ice cream in no time.
Experiment with different variations by adding chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even a swirl of chocolate sauce. Get creative and make this classic summer treat your own. So grab those strawberries and get ready to indulge in a delicious homemade strawberry ice cream like no other!