Homemade Ice Cream Mix
A rich, creamy homemade ice cream base perfect for adding fresh fruits or nuts, ideal for a cool treat that can be customized with various flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up fruit such as strawberries or peaches, or prepare Grape-Nuts soaked or mashed bananas, and cover with 2 cups of sugar before making the mix.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 quarts of half and half and 1 pint of table cream.
- Add 2 egg yolks and a pinch or two of salt to the mixture.
- Stir in sugar to taste, ensuring it dissolves completely.
- Mix the prepared fruit or nuts into the cream mixture.
- Chill the mixture thoroughly before freezing in an ice cream maker or freezer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, make sure to chill the mix thoroughly before freezing. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding vanilla extract or cocoa powder. You can substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter version, and use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Using fresh fruit like strawberries or peaches enhances the flavor, while Grape-Nuts add a nice crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the homemade ice cream in bowls or cones, and consider topping it with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or nuts for added flavor and texture. This ice cream pairs beautifully with a slice of Prunes 'N Cream Pie for a delightful dessert experience. For an extra treat, enjoy it alongside a refreshing Summer Cucumber Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its texture. To avoid ice crystals, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. It can be kept for up to two weeks. If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Ice Cream Mix contains roughly 715 calories, with 9g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cream for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace table cream with heavy cream for a richer texture, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the final flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How long does it take to freeze the ice cream?
Typically, it takes about 20-30 minutes in an ice cream maker to achieve a soft-serve consistency. If you're using a freezer method, it may take several hours to firm up completely, so plan ahead for the best results.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even cookie crumbles once the mixture is combined. Just be sure to add them just before freezing to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).