Homemade Cherry Ice Cream
Enjoy a delightful and creamy cherry ice cream that captures the sweetness and tartness of fresh cherries, perfect for warm summer days.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted and halved cherries Fresh, ripe cherries bring a burst of juicy goodness.
- 1 cup heavy cream Defines the velvety texture.
- 1 cup whole milk Provides necessary body for smooth ice cream.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar Balances the natural tartness of the cherries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 pinch salt Enhances sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Toss the pitted and halved cherries into a medium bowl and sprinkle 1/4 cup of sugar over them. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Fold the syrupy cherry mixture into the cream mixture until everything is beautifully combined.
Churning
- Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream into a lidded container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
Serving
- Serve the cherry ice cream in bowls or cones, optionally topped with fresh cherries or chocolate syrup.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute half of the cream with Greek yogurt. For variations, consider adding almond extract instead of vanilla, or mix in crushed lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Ensure fresh cherries are used; frozen cherries work if thawed.