Classic Homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

As the warm summer sun beats down, nothing beats a scoop of homemade ice cream. Cherry vanilla ice cream brings back memories of carefree summers. It’s a treat that makes every bite a joy.

Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for this summer classic. It’s a homemade cherry vanilla ice cream that will make you swoon.

Key Takeaways

• Homemade cherry vanilla ice cream is a classic summer dessert that captures the essence of the season.
• This recipe yields a rich, creamy ice cream with a perfect balance of sweet cherries and vanilla flavors.
• Making ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a healthier, more satisfying treat.
• The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
• Proper storage and temperature control are key for achieving the perfect texture and preventing ice crystals.

Why This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe Is Special

This homemade cherry vanilla ice cream recipe is truly unique. It’s all about the perfect mix of flavors. The sweet cherries and creamy vanilla are a match made in heaven.

By making your own artisanal ice cream, you get to pick the ingredients. You can make it just the way you like it.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The mix of fresh cherries and Madagascar vanilla extract is amazing. It gives you a rich, balanced taste. Every bite is a mix of sweet and tart, perfect for summer.

Benefits of Making Ice Cream at Home

Homemade homemade ice cream recipes mean no artificial stuff. You can also change the sweetness and dairy to your liking. Plus, you can add your favorite mix-ins.

A Traditional Summer Treat

In the Okanagan region, homemade artisanal ice cream is a summer favorite. It’s especially great with fresh, local cherries. This recipe brings back memories of enjoying ice cream on warm days.

Essential Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

Making the perfect cherry ice cream with a vanilla ice cream twist is easy with a few key ingredients. You’ll need heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and fresh cherries. Let’s look at what makes this summer dessert so special.

Start with 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk for the ice cream base. This mix gives the ice cream its creamy texture. Add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar to sweeten it just right.

Vanilla is crucial in cherry vanilla ice cream. Use 1 tablespoon of high-quality vanilla extract for a rich flavor. You can also add 1 teaspoon of almond extract for extra sweetness and a hint of almond.

The cherries are the main attraction – 2 cups of fresh, pitted, and halved cherries. They add color and a fruity taste. You can try different cherry types or mix berries for a unique flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a batch of cherry vanilla ice cream that everyone will love. The secret to success is using top-notch, fresh ingredients. They make all the difference in taste and texture.

Required Equipment and Tools

Making cherry vanilla ice cream at home is easy. You don’t need fancy tools. A few basic kitchen items will do. You can make it creamy without an ice cream maker, thanks to no-churn methods.

Ice Cream Maker Options

An ice cream maker makes homemade ice cream smooth and creamy. I use the Rival 6-quart ice cream maker for big batches. But, the 2-quart Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker is great for smaller amounts.

Alternative No-Churn Methods

• No-churn ice cream can be made by freezing the base mixture in a metal pan. Stir it as it freezes.
• Another way is to whip heavy cream until stiff. Then, fold it into a sweetened condensed milk and vanilla base before freezing.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. A large mixing bowl for preparing the ice cream base
2. A whisk for blending the ingredients
3. Measuring cups and spoons for accurate portioning
4. A freezer-safe container or loaf pan lined with parchment paper for freezing the ice cream

With these simple tools, you’re ready to make delicious no-churn ice cream and ice cream maker batches of cherry vanilla ice cream.

How to Select and Prepare Fresh Cherries

Creating a delicious fruit-flavored ice cream like Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream starts with the cherries. Here’s how to pick and prepare the best cherries for your homemade ice cream.

First, choose fresh cherries that are in season. Look for plump, firm, and brightly colored cherries. These will give your ice cream the best flavor and color. Stay away from cherries with blemishes or soft spots.

1. Rinse the cherries well under cool water to get rid of dirt.
2. Remove the pits from each cherry, either by hand or with a pitter tool. This is key for a smooth ice cream.
3. After pitting, cut the cherries in half or quarters. Smaller pieces blend better into the ice cream.

You can also use frozen cherries as a substitute. Just thaw them first and follow the recipe. But, fresh cherries give the best taste and color.

To boost the cherry flavor, mix the prepared cherries with a little sugar before adding them to the ice cream. This step lets the cherry sweetness come through in every bite.

Homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making homemade cherry vanilla ice cream is a fun summer treat. You can customize the flavors to make a special dessert. Let’s go through the steps to make the perfect custard-based ice cream with cherry goodness.

Preparing the Base Mixture

Begin by mixing heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt in a big bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mix is smooth. Add the vanilla and almond extracts for aromatic flavors.

Churning Process

Then, prepare the cherries by removing pits and chopping them. In a small saucepan, mix the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until it thickens into a cherry sauce. Let it cool a bit, then mix it into the ice cream base.

Pour the cherry-infused ice cream base into your ice cream maker. Churn it for about 30 minutes, following the maker’s instructions. This step adds air, making the ice cream creamy and smooth.

Freezing and Storage Tips

After churning, move the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Put it in the freezer for at least 2 hours. For the best taste, freeze it for 3-4 hours before serving.

When you’re ready, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. This recipe makes about 4 servings or 6 half-cup portions. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

Homemade cherry vanilla ice cream is a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. It’s part of a balanced diet. Let’s look at the key nutritional facts:

Per 1/2 cup serving, this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream provides:

• 290 calories
• 18g of total fat, with 11g of saturated fat and 0.5g of trans fat
• 80mg of cholesterol
• 60mg of sodium
• 29g of total carbohydrates, with 28g of total sugars and 19g of added sugars
• 4g of protein

A serving of homemade cherry vanilla ice cream has a lot of calories, fat, and sugar. But, it also has some good nutrients like protein.

The recipe makes about 12 servings. This helps with portion control and managing calories.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

Creating the ultimate artisanal ice cream means focusing on texture as much as flavor. To get a rich, creamy homemade cherry vanilla ice cream, watch your temperature and ingredient mix closely.

Temperature Control

Chilled ingredients are key for a smooth texture. Chill your mixing bowl and ice cream maker’s freezer bowl for at least 30 minutes before starting. This keeps the mixture from melting too fast during churning.

Ingredient Ratios

The right mix of heavy cream and milk is essential for creaminess. For this cherry vanilla ice cream recipe, use at least 33% heavy cream. Less heavy cream can make the ice cream icy and less creamy.

After mixing the ingredients, churn until it’s thick enough. This might take 20-30 minutes, depending on your ice cream maker. Be patient and don’t over-churn, as it can make the texture grainy.

Ingredient	Recommended Quantity	Rationale
Heavy Cream	At least 33% of total volume	Provides rich, creamy texture
Milk	Remaining volume	Balances the creaminess and prevents an overly dense texture
Churning Time	20-30 minutes	Ensures the mixture reaches the desired thickness and consistency

By keeping an eye on temperature and ingredient ratios, you’ll make the perfect homemade cherry vanilla ice cream. It will have a texture that’s truly artisanal.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

The classic cherry vanilla ice cream is a summer favorite. But, you can add your own twist to make it special. Fruit-flavored ice cream is a great way to enjoy the season’s vibrant tastes.

Try using different cherry types, like tart Montmorency or sweet Bing cherries. Their unique flavors can change your experience. You can also add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or homemade fudge for a richer treat.

Want to make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and coconut milk instead of heavy cream and milk. This gives a creamy texture perfect for summer. Or, mix other fruits like mango and coconut or avocado and lime for new flavors.

There are endless ways to make your cherry vanilla ice cream special. So, don’t be shy to get creative and make it your own summer dessert.

Flavor Variation	Ingredients	Yield
Chocolate Chip Cherry Vanilla	Cherry vanilla base, semi-sweet chocolate chips	1-1/2 quarts
Coconut Mango Ice Cream	Coconut cream, coconut milk, fresh mango	2 quarts
Avocado Lime Ice Cream	Avocado, lime juice, honey	1-1/2 quarts

The secret to amazing fruit-flavored ice cream is using fresh, ripe fruits. Don’t be afraid to try new flavor combinations. So, have fun and let your creativity shine in your summer desserts!

Storage Guidelines and Shelf Life

Keeping your homemade cherry vanilla ice cream fresh is important. The right storage keeps it creamy and tasty. Follow these tips to enjoy your ice cream at its best.

Proper Container Selection

Use an airtight, freezer-safe container for your ice cream. A shallow container or loaf pan with parchment paper makes scooping easy. This prevents ice crystals from forming.

Preventing Ice Crystal Formation

To keep your frozen treats smooth, freeze them right. Move the ice cream to your container and freeze for 2 hours before serving. This step helps avoid big ice crystals that ruin the texture.

Your homemade ice cream will last 2-3 weeks in the freezer. For the best taste and texture, eat it within this time.

Ingredient	Refrigerated Shelf Life	Freezer Shelf Life
Butter	1-3 months	6-9 months
Hard Cheeses (Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan)	6 months unopened, 3-4 weeks opened	Up to 6 months
Cottage Cheese and Ricotta	1 week	Does not freeze well
Sour Cream	7-21 days	Does not freeze well
Raw Eggs in Shell	3-5 weeks	Does not freeze well
Fresh Fish (Cod, Flounder, Haddock, Sole)	1-2 days	6-8 months
Chicken or Turkey Parts	1-2 days	9 months

By storing your ice cream correctly, you can enjoy it for weeks. Every bite will be as fresh and creamy as the first.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

As a passionate home chef, I’ve faced a few challenges making homemade ice cream. But with some troubleshooting, you can enjoy creamy results every time.

If your ice cream is too hard, try letting it sit at room temperature for a bit. This softens it and makes scooping easier. Also, adding a small amount of vodka can prevent it from getting too firm.

But if it’s too soft, chill it well after it’s done. This step firms it up. Make sure all sugar is dissolved before churning to avoid a grainy texture.

FAQ

What is the yield and total preparation time for this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream recipe?

This recipe makes 4 cups or 8 servings. It takes 5 hours and 15 minutes to prepare. This includes 3 hours and 15 minutes of prep and 2 hours of freezing.

What are the main ingredients in this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream?

The main ingredients are heavy cream, milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and fresh cherries. Each serving has 325 calories.

Why is this cherry vanilla ice cream recipe special?

It combines fresh cherries with Madagascar vanilla for a luxurious treat. Making it at home lets you customize and enjoy freshness. It’s a traditional Okanagan summer treat, especially with local cherries.

Can this recipe be adapted for dairy-free options?

Yes, you can use coconut cream and coconut milk for dairy-free options.

What equipment and tools are recommended for making this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream?

An ice cream maker gives the creamiest texture. No-churn methods involve freezing in a metal pan. You’ll need a bowl, whisk, measuring cups, and a freezer-safe container or loaf pan.

How should the fresh cherries be prepared for this recipe?

Pick ripe, fresh cherries when they’re in season. Remove pits and cut them in half or quarters. Frozen cherries are a good alternative. Mix diced cherries with sugar before adding to the base for better flavor.

What are the step-by-step instructions for making this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream?

Mix cream, milk, and sugar until sugar dissolves. Add vanilla and almond extracts, then cherries. Pour into the ice cream maker and churn for about 30 minutes. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

What is the nutritional information and serving size for this cherry vanilla ice cream?

Each 1/2 cup serving has 325 calories. It includes 23g fat, 28g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 84mg cholesterol. The recipe makes 12 half-cup servings.

What tips are recommended for achieving the perfect texture when making this homemade ice cream?

Use cold ingredients for the best results. Keep the right ratio of heavy cream to milk for creaminess. Churn until thick for the best texture.

What variations or flavor enhancements can be made to this cherry vanilla ice cream recipe?

Try different cherry varieties or add chocolate chips or nuts. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and milk. You can also mix in other fruits like mango or lime.

How should this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream be stored?

Store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Use parchment paper for easy removal. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving. This keeps the texture smooth.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for this homemade ice cream recipe?

If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature briefly. For a softer texture, add a bit of alcohol. Ensure sugar is dissolved to avoid graininess. Don’t overfill the ice cream maker to prevent overflow.

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