Cherry Ice Cream

There’s something magical about summer days, and nothing captures that essence quite like Cherry Ice Cream. I remember the first time I made this treat; it was a hot afternoon, and the sun was shining down, casting a warm glow over everything. My kids had just returned from picking cherries at a local farm, and their excitement was infectious. The idea of turning those plump, juicy cherries into a creamy dessert felt like the perfect way to celebrate the season. We gathered in the kitchen, and as I mixed the ingredients, the sweet aroma of fresh cherries filled the air. With each churn of the ice cream maker, anticipation grew. When we finally scooped out that vibrant pink ice cream, it was like tasting summer itself. Each bite was creamy, with bits of cherry bursting through, making it a family favorite.

What I love most about Cherry Ice Cream is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your kitchen. You can easily customize it too, depending on whether you want bits of fruit or a smoother texture. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to cool off while enjoying a delicious homemade treat. This recipe is not just about the ice cream; it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or just to spoil yourself, it’s bound to bring smiles all around. So, grab your ice cream maker and let’s dive into this delightful summer treat!

Ingredient List for Cherry Ice Cream

The ingredients for Cherry Ice Cream are simple yet flavorful. Fresh, ripe cherries are the star of this recipe, bringing a fruity burst that pairs beautifully with the creamy base. The combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar creates a rich, smooth texture, while the vanilla extract and almond extract add depth to the flavor profile. Every ingredient plays its part in bringing this delightful summer treat to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups pitted and roughly chopped fresh or frozen cherries – These cherries are the highlight, adding a natural sweetness and beautiful color to your ice cream.
• 2 cups heavy cream – This rich cream gives the ice cream its indulgently creamy texture.
• 1 cup whole milk – Whole milk complements the heavy cream, keeping the mixture smooth and easy to churn.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the mixture perfectly to balance the tartness of the cherries.
• 2 teaspoons quality pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract – Adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt – A pinch of salt amplifies all the flavors and balances sweetness.

The Method for Cherry Ice Cream

Making Cherry Ice Cream is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Follow these steps to create the perfect creamy treat. You’ll find that the method is just as enjoyable as the end result!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and kosher salt. Using a whisk, stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. This might take a minute or two, but you want to ensure that the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Next, add the fresh, pitted cherries to the bowl. If you’d like a smooth texture, you can puree some of the cherries beforehand. However, if you prefer chunks of fruit, just fold them in gently. This step adds a delightful burst of cherry goodness in every scoop.
3. Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific machine. The churning process typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your ice cream maker.
4. As the mixture churns, keep an eye on it. You’re looking for a thick, creamy consistency. It should resemble soft serve when done. This is the moment when you can taste the mixture—make sure it’s sweet enough for your liking!
5. Once it reaches the desired consistency, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to spread it out evenly in the container to avoid air pockets. You can smooth the top with a spatula for a nice finish.
6. Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. The longer it freezes, the better the texture will be when serving.
7. When you’re ready to enjoy your Cherry Ice Cream, scoop out portions with an ice cream scoop or a spoon. If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
8. For a decorative touch, serve the ice cream in a bowl with a few extra cherries on top or drizzle with chocolate syrup. Enjoy the refreshing, homemade flavors!
9. As a note, if you want a deeper red color in your ice cream, puree a portion of the cherries and mix them in. It’s a simple trick that adds to the visual appeal.

Recipe Tips about Cherry Ice Cream

Making Cherry Ice Cream can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to ensure your ice cream turns out perfectly:

• Storage: Keep your ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. This helps maintain its texture and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods.
• Freezing: If you want to enjoy your ice cream later, it freezes well for approximately two to three weeks. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to keep it fresh.
• Pairing: Cherry Ice Cream pairs beautifully with chocolate cake or a slice of pie, creating a wonderful dessert experience.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit ice cream.
• Serving: Serve the ice cream in chilled bowls to keep it from melting too quickly on warm days.

What to Pair With Cherry Ice Cream

When it comes to serving Cherry Ice Cream, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Top with Fresh Fruits: Adding fresh fruits like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or additional cherries can enhance the dessert visually and in flavor.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate syrup over the ice cream brings a delightful contrast that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
• Crushed Nuts: Sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Serve with Cake: Pairing your ice cream with a slice of chocolate or vanilla cake creates a deliciously rich dessert.
• Enjoy on Hot Days: Cherry Ice Cream is best enjoyed on hot summer days, making it the perfect treat for barbecues or picnics.
• Events: This dessert is ideal for gatherings like birthday parties, family reunions, or just a cozy night in with loved ones.

FAQ

Conclusion

Cherry Ice Cream is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience filled with flavor and nostalgia. The blend of fresh cherries and creamy texture makes it a standout treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s easier than you think and incredibly rewarding. You’ll find joy in every scoop, and I promise it will be a hit with family and friends alike!

Cherry Ice Cream

The ultimate summer treat! Homemade Cherry Ice Cream is creamy, fruity, and refreshingly delicious. Made with fresh cherries and simply whipped up in an ice cream maker, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. You won't want to miss out on this delightful recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups pitted and roughly chopped fresh or frozen cherries Canned cherries work too but aren't as good.
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons quality pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

Equipment

• Basic ice cream maker
• Deluxe ice cream maker

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and kosher salt. Using a whisk, stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. This might take a minute or two, but you want to ensure that the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Next, add the fresh, pitted cherries to the bowl. If you'd like a smooth texture, you can puree some of the cherries beforehand. However, if you prefer chunks of fruit, just fold them in gently. This step adds a delightful burst of cherry goodness in every scoop.
3. Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific machine. The churning process typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your ice cream maker.
4. As the mixture churns, keep an eye on it. You’re looking for a thick, creamy consistency. It should resemble soft serve when done. This is the moment when you can taste the mixture—make sure it's sweet enough for your liking!
5. Once it reaches the desired consistency, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to spread it out evenly in the container to avoid air pockets. You can smooth the top with a spatula for a nice finish.
6. Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. The longer it freezes, the better the texture will be when serving.
7. When you’re ready to enjoy your Cherry Ice Cream, scoop out portions with an ice cream scoop or a spoon. If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
8. For a decorative touch, serve the ice cream in a bowl with a few extra cherries on top or drizzle with chocolate syrup. Enjoy the refreshing, homemade flavors!
9. As a note, if you want a deeper red color in your ice cream, puree a portion of the cherries and mix them in. It’s a simple trick that adds to the visual appeal.

Notes

Making Cherry Ice Cream can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to ensure your ice cream turns out perfectly:

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.