The air is heavy with summer’s warmth, and nothing beats the delicious chill of homemade cherry ice cream. Each scoop is a celebration of fresh cherries, capturing their natural sweetness and tangy notes, making this treat a summertime favorite. With our simple recipe for Homemade Cherry Ice Cream, you’ll enjoy a creamy, dreamy dessert that whips up in no time—perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening on the porch. Plus, it offers a delightful twist: you can easily make a dairy-free version to share with everyone! So why not treat yourself to a refreshing scoop today? What flavors will you mix in to make it your own?
Why is Homemade Cherry Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each scoop of this homemade cherry ice cream bursts with the fresh taste of real cherries, bringing summertime happiness to your palate.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer a dairy-free alternative with almond milk or chunky style with whole cherry pieces, this recipe adapts to your cravings.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying your homemade treat in no time, making it an ideal choice for impromptu gatherings.
Perfect for Sharing: This crowd-pleaser is sure to delight friends and family alike, especially when paired with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or fresh fruit. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes like Butter Shrimp Rice and Jack Cheese Chicken for more versatile options!
Homemade Cherry Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base
• Cherries – Fresh, pitted, and halved; they provide the primary flavor and natural sweetness for your homemade cherry ice cream.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a rich, creamy texture; there’s no substitute for achieving that smooth finish.
• Whole Milk – Contributes to the creaminess; feel free to swap with almond milk for a delightful dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; adjust according to the ripeness of your cherries for the perfect balance.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; using pure extract will elevate the overall taste experience.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; just a pinch will suffice for optimal flavor.
Optional Add-ins
• Chocolate Chips – Mix in mini chocolate chips for a delectable chocolate cherry twist!
• Almond Milk (for dairy-free) – Use this in place of whole milk for a creamy, dairy-free dessert experience.
• Coconut Cream – Substitute for heavy cream to maintain richness while making it dairy-free.
Now that you have all the essentials, let’s start crafting your delicious homemade cherry ice cream!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Cherry Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Begin by pitting and halving fresh cherries, then place them in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and cook for 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely, optionally puréeing half for a smoother ice cream.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, the remaining sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the sugar fully dissolves, creating a creamy and delicious base for your homemade cherry ice cream. This is where the magic begins, so mix it gently until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Once the cherry mixture has cooled, stir in the cherries and any optional purée. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial as it ensures your mixture is cold enough for a smooth churn in the next step, enhancing the final texture.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker, ensuring not to overfill. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions for about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. You’ll know it’s done when it thickens and holds peaks, delivering that delightful, creamy texture you crave.
Step 5: Freeze to Firm Up
Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, allowing it to set properly. This step ensures your homemade cherry ice cream becomes solid yet scoopable, perfect for serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. Use a scooper to serve it into bowls or cones, enjoying the rich cherry flavor in every bite. Don’t forget to appreciate the creamy goodness of your homemade cherry ice cream!
Expert Tips for Homemade Cherry Ice Cream
Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the ice cream mixture is very cold before churning. This helps achieve that creamy texture.
Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining the cherry mixture, mix gently to avoid breaking down the cherries too much, preserving their delicious bite.
Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries will yield the best flavor for your homemade cherry ice cream, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Don’t Rush Freezing: Allow sufficient time in the freezer after churning; this is crucial for a firm yet scoopable texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cherry mixture before freezing; if your cherries are tart, you may want to add a little more sugar for balance.
What to Serve with Homemade Cherry Ice Cream?
Create the perfect sweet finale for your summer gatherings with these delightful pairings.
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Chocolate Syrup: A rich drizzle enhances the sweet cherry flavor and adds a luscious chocolate contrast that everyone loves.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor and added texture. Their tartness brightens the creaminess of the ice cream beautifully.
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Waffle Cones: Crunchy and sweet, waffle cones provide the ideal vessel for your cherry ice cream, making every scoop a satisfying experience.
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Mint Sprigs: Top your serving with a sprig of fresh mint to introduce a hint of freshness and vibrant color, elevating the overall presentation and taste.
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Shortbread Cookies: A buttery shortbread cookie pairs perfectly, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor that complements the creamy ice cream.
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Homemade Fruit Sauce: Whip up a quick fruit sauce with leftover cherries or other seasonal fruits, drizzling it over the ice cream for an exquisite homemade touch. This brings an additional layer of flavor that will impress.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing summer beverages like iced tea or lemonade balance the sweetness of the ice cream, making them perfect companions for your dessert.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: For a unique touch, add a dollop of coconut whipped cream, providing an airy, tropical note that plays beautifully with cherries.
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Almond Biscotti: Pairing with almond biscotti adds a crunchy, nutty element that balances the creaminess of the cherry ice cream for a well-rounded dessert experience.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Cherry Ice Cream
Fridge: Store any leftover homemade cherry ice cream in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, keep the ice cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating/Softening: When ready to enjoy, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften before scooping. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture with every delightful bite.
Homemade Cherry Ice Cream Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that elevate your homemade cherry ice cream to new heights!
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Chocolate Cherry: Mix in mini chocolate chips right before freezing for a decadent chocolate and cherry combination. The rich chocolate melds beautifully with the tart cherries, creating a luxurious treat.
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Chunky Style: Retain cherry halves in the ice cream to enjoy bites of juicy fruit in every scoop. This rustic texture not only looks inviting but also enhances the overall flavor experience.
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Dairy-Free Twist: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and whole milk with almond milk for a deliciously creamy, dairy-free version. This twist allows everyone to indulge without missing out on flavor!
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Nutty Add-In: Stir in crushed almonds or walnuts before freezing for a delightful crunch. The nuts add a satisfying texture and deliciously rich taste that balances the sweetness of the cherries.
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Spicy Cherry Kick: Add a hint of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cherry mixture for a surprising sizzle. This unexpected heat enhances the cherry’s natural sweetness, making it a truly unique treat.
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Herb Infusion: Infuse the cream with fresh basil or mint before mixing in the cherries. The subtle notes of herbs perfectly contrast with the fruit, making your dessert refreshingly aromatic and light.
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Citrus Splash: Brighten up the flavors by adding a splash of lemon or lime juice to the cherry mixture. This zesty enhancement gives a vibrant twist that complements cherry’s sweetness beautifully.
Want to explore more delectable recipes? Check out our other favorites, like Cream Cheese Chicken or Creamy Beef Pasta, for delightful meal inspirations!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Homemade Cherry Ice Cream ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy summer days! You can make the cherry mixture up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and cooling the cherries with sugar, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures they remain fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can whisk together the ice cream base (heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, simply combine the chilled cherry mixture with the ice cream base, churn it according to your ice cream maker’s instructions, and freeze until firm. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have creamy, dreamy Homemade Cherry Ice Cream ready to scoop at a moment’s notice!
Homemade Cherry Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cherries for my homemade cherry ice cream?
Absolutely! Look for cherries that are ripe, plump, and firm, with a rich red color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh cherries in season will yield the best flavor for your ice cream.
How should I store homemade cherry ice cream?
Store your homemade cherry ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To keep it fresh, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing it completely, which helps prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I freeze leftover homemade cherry ice cream?
Yes! Once churned, you can transfer your homemade cherry ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to avoid freezer burn, which can affect texture and flavor.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
Very! If your homemade cherry ice cream is too hard to scoop, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. This will allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to serve without losing that creamy texture you love.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making this ice cream?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the whole milk with almond milk. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy and delicious homemade cherry ice cream, accommodating those with dairy allergies or dietary restrictions.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making homemade cherry ice cream?
If your mixture doesn’t churn properly, it may not be cold enough. Ensure your ice cream base has chilled for at least 2 hours before churning. If you want a smoother texture, try puréeing half the cherries before stirring them into the mix. This will give you that velvety mouthfeel while retaining the fruit’s delightful chunks.
Homemade Cherry Ice Cream That Will Make Your Summer Sweet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by pitting and halving fresh cherries, then place them in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and cook for 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely, optionally puréeing half for a smoother ice cream.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, the remaining sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the sugar fully dissolves, creating a creamy and delicious base.
- Once the cherry mixture has cooled, stir in the cherries and any optional purée. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions for about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. Use a scooper to serve into bowls or cones.
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