Creamy Strawberry Ice Cream with Fresh Chunks: A Luscious Summer Treat 🍓🍦✨
1. Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade creamy strawberry ice cream with fresh chunks of juicy strawberries. This delightful dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors of fresh strawberries combined with rich, velvety cream. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, looking for the perfect dessert recipe, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this creamy strawberry ice cream recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
2. Ingredients
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (look for ripe, fragrant berries for best results)
1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on your strawberries’ sweetness)
2 cups heavy cream (for that luxurious creamy texture)
1 cup whole milk (the fat content helps create a smoother ice cream)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for best flavor)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but recommended for balancing sweetness)
Blender or food processor (for creating that smooth strawberry puree)
Ice cream maker (essential for proper churning)
Large mixing bowl (stainless steel works best for keeping things cold)
Rubber spatula (for folding in those precious strawberry chunks)
Airtight container for freezing (prevents ice crystals from forming)
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Chop them into small chunks (about ¼ inch pieces work well), reserving about ½ cup for later to add fresh chunks into the ice cream. This ensures you’ll get those delightful bursts of fresh strawberry flavor. Blend the remaining strawberries with sugar until completely smooth – about 1-2 minutes in a high-powered blender.
In a blender, combine the strawberry puree with heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice (if using – it really brightens the flavor), and a pinch of salt. Blend for about 30 seconds until everything is well incorporated and smooth. The mixture should be a beautiful pale pink color with no streaks. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 3: Add Fresh Strawberry Chunks
Pour the blended mixture into a large chilled bowl (this helps keep everything cold) and gently fold in the reserved strawberry chunks using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix – you want those chunks to stay intact for texture contrast. This step is what makes this recipe special compared to regular strawberry ice cream!
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
Transfer the mixture to your pre-chilled ice cream maker (follow your machine’s instructions for proper chilling time) and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream should thicken to a soft-serve consistency. For an extra creamy texture, try our tip from the creamy custard pie recipe – adding a tablespoon of vodka (alcohol doesn’t freeze, keeping ice cream softer).
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy strawberry ice cream in waffle cones for that classic ice cream shop experience, or get creative with these ideas:
Top with extra strawberry chunks and whipped cream
Use as filling for ice cream sandwiches with soft cookies
6. Storage Tips
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For best results:
Press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals
Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving
Consider using shallow containers for faster freezing and easier scooping
7. Variations
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and almond milk for whole milk. The coconut adds a lovely tropical note that pairs well with strawberries.
Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk for a richer texture and deeper flavor profile.
Mixed Berry Twist: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a complex berry medley flavor.
Adult Version: Add 2 tablespoons of strawberry liqueur or vodka for a boozy twist (and to keep it softer).
Cheesecake Flavor: Blend in 4 oz of cream cheese for a strawberry cheesecake ice cream variation.
Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours until creamy. The texture won’t be quite as smooth, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar to ¾ cup or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use less ripe strawberries which tend to be more tart.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid to prevent icy texture. Frozen berries work especially well when fresh aren’t in season.
Why is my ice cream icy?
This usually happens if the fat content is too low or if you didn’t churn it properly. Make sure to use full-fat dairy and churn until it’s thick like soft-serve.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Absolutely! This ice cream actually benefits from overnight freezing to develop flavors. Just remember to let it soften slightly before serving.
9. Conclusion
This creamy strawberry ice cream recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the sweet, refreshing taste of strawberries in a rich, velvety dessert. With fresh chunks of fruit and a smooth, creamy texture, it’s the perfect summer treat that beats store-bought versions any day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your taste preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of our suggested variations, you’re in for a delightful treat. For more delicious recipes, explore our baking category or try our no-bake cheesy bread for something savory. Try making this ice cream at home and enjoy the delicious results—your taste buds will thank you! 🍓🍦
Indulge in this luscious Creamy Strawberry Ice Cream with Fresh Chunks—a perfect summer treat! Made with fresh strawberries, rich cream, and a touch of vanilla, this homemade ice cream is velvety smooth with bursts of juicy strawberry chunks. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tanginess)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the strawberries by washing, hulling, and chopping them. Blend most with sugar until smooth, reserving ½ cup for fresh chunks.
Combine the strawberry puree with heavy cream, milk, vanilla, lemon juice (if using), and salt in a blender until smooth.
Pour the mixture into a bowl and gently fold in the reserved strawberry chunks.
Churn in an ice cream maker for 20-25 minutes until soft-serve consistency, then freeze for 4 hours before serving.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and almond milk.
Add sweetened condensed milk for extra creaminess.
Store in an airtight container with parchment paper on top to prevent ice crystals.
No ice cream maker? Freeze in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes.
