Memorial Day Homemade Ice Cream

Memorial Day is almost here, and you know what that means! It’s time to break out the ice cream makers and whip up some delightful Memorial Day homemade ice cream. Picture this: a sunny afternoon with friends gathered around, laughter filling the air as you serve up scoops of creamy, dreamy goodness topped with sprinkles or fresh fruit. The tantalizing aroma of vanilla and chocolate wafting through the air just adds to the excitement.

Now let me tell you about that one time I decided to make homemade ice cream for my family picnic. Let’s just say it was a hit! My cousin’s kids went wild; they even declared me the “Ice Cream Queen,” which definitely boosted my ego (if only for a day). So, whether you’re planning a big gathering or just want to treat yourself on a hot day, this recipe will not disappoint!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful homemade ice cream is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing anyone to become an ice cream maestro in no time
  • The rich flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy
  • Its eye-catching appearance makes it a stunning addition to any summer gathering
  • This versatile recipe can be customized with your favorite mix-ins or toppings for a unique twist

You know that feeling when someone takes their first bite of your creation? Well, when I served this at our last family get-together, the smiles were contagious!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Heavy Cream: Look for high-fat content; it creates that luxuriously smooth texture we all crave.
  • Whole Milk: Use whole milk for the perfect balance of creaminess without making it too heavy.
  • Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar works best here; it dissolves easily and sweetens perfectly.
  • Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract; it elevates flavors significantly compared to imitation versions.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
  • Your Favorite Mix-Ins: Go wild! Chocolate chips, fruit bits, or nuts work wonders in customizing your treat.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Making your very own memorial day homemade ice cream is like embarking on a mini adventure in your kitchen. Get ready for some creamy fun!

Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when all those sugar granules have vanished into creamy bliss.

Chill Out Time: Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you’re feeling patient). This step helps develop those rich flavors while keeping everything nice and cool.

Churn Away!: Pour your chilled mixture into your ice cream maker following its manufacturer’s instructions. Churn until it reaches soft-serve consistency—about 20-25 minutes usually does the trick.

Add Your Mix-Ins: Once churned to perfection, gently fold in any mix-ins you desire before transferring it to an airtight container. I highly recommend using chocolate chips or crushed cookies; they add that extra crunch everyone loves.

Freeze Until Firm: Seal the container tightly and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours. Trust me; waiting will be worth every second when you finally scoop into that creamy goodness.

Enjoy this refreshing treat with friends and family as you celebrate summer’s arrival on Memorial Day!

You Must Know

  • This Memorial Day Homemade Ice Cream recipe is not just delicious; it’s a fun way to celebrate with family
  • The creamy texture and rich flavors create a delightful treat that everyone will love
  • Perfect for hot days, it brings joy and laughter at every scoop

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chilling your ice cream maker’s bowl overnight. Then, mix your ingredients well, ensuring no lumps remain. Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker and churn until thickened—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes for a perfect consistency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vanilla for other flavors like mint or chocolate. You can also add in mix-ins such as crushed cookies or fruits just before the churning finishes to create your unique twist on this classic treat.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For the best texture, let it sit out for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use full-fat cream for a richer flavor and creamier texture, making every bite heavenly
  • When adding mix-ins, fold them in gently to avoid breaking up the ice cream base too much
  • Always ensure your mixture is cold before churning for optimal results!

Creating homemade ice cream always brings back memories of my childhood summers spent at my grandma’s house, where we made ice cream with old-fashioned hand-crank machines and plenty of giggles.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Memorial Day Homemade Ice Cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can freeze the mixture in a container and stir every 30 minutes until set.

How long does homemade ice cream last?

Homemade ice cream can last about two weeks if stored properly in an airtight container.

What are some good mix-in ideas?

Try adding chocolate chips, fruit pieces, or nuts for extra flavor and texture!

Print
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Delightful Memorial Day Homemade Ice Cream


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  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a creamy, dreamy homemade ice cream that’s perfect for your Memorial Day celebration. This easy recipe will keep your guests smiling all day long.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Your favorite mix-ins (chocolate chips, fruit bits, or nuts)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches soft-serve consistency (about 20-25 minutes).
  4. Gently fold in your choice of mix-ins before transferring to an airtight container.
  5. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream.
  •  Experiment with different flavors by substituting vanilla with mint or chocolate.
  • If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a container and stir every 30 minutes until set.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Churning
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 26g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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