Make homemade peach ice cream with fresh, juicy peaches and creamy goodness. Perfect for summer, this recipe is simple and incredibly delicious!
Introduction
There’s nothing like a scoop of homemade peach ice cream to capture the essence of summer. This creamy, dreamy dessert features fresh, ripe peaches that lend their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just indulging in a sweet treat, peach ice cream is always a hit.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and rich texture. Made with fresh fruit, cream, and a touch of vanilla, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the best of the season. With or without an ice cream maker, you can whip up this delicious dessert at home and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Peaches: In a medium bowl, toss the diced peaches with 1/4 cup of the sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
- Blend the Peaches: Transfer the peaches and their juices to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture if desired.
- Make the Ice Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, whole milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the blended peaches.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20-25 minutes.
- Freeze to Set: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 2-4 hours for a firmer texture.
How to Prepare Without an Ice Cream Maker
- After mixing the peach and cream base, pour it into a shallow, freezer-safe dish.
- Freeze for 1 hour, then stir vigorously with a fork or whisk to break up ice crystals.
- Repeat every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, or until the ice cream is smooth and creamy.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: 4-6 hours (including freezing)
Servings
Serves 6-8 people.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw the peaches before using, and drain any excess liquid before blending.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half, but the texture may be less creamy.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and almond or oat milk as substitutes for heavy cream and whole milk.
4. How long does homemade ice cream last?
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
5. Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try adding chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or crushed graham crackers for extra texture.
Conclusion
Homemade peach ice cream is the perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of fresh summer peaches. Its creamy texture and natural fruit flavor make it a refreshing treat for hot days.
Whether you’re making it with an ice cream maker or by hand, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Share it with loved ones or savor it yourself—each scoop is a taste of summer bliss. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade ice cream!
