If you’re craving a sweet, creamy treat without the fuss of traditional ice cream-making, this No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream is your new best friend. Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and silky texture, it’s a quick and easy dessert perfect for summer days or anytime you want a delightful, homemade scoop. No ice cream machine required, just simple ingredients and minimal effort to whip up a batch that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples plus fresh strawberries for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute dessert cravings.
- No Special Equipment Required: No ice cream maker needed, just a bowl, mixer, and freezer.
- Creamy Texture: Whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk create a smooth, rich consistency.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adapt with add-ins or other fruits, making it versatile and fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream recipe shines because each ingredient plays a vital role, from the creamy base to the fruity punch. The balance of sweetness and tanginess comes naturally from fresh strawberries and creamy elements that make every spoonful pure bliss.
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy berries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it provides the rich, airy texture essential for creamy ice cream.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess without additional sugar granules.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and complements the strawberry notes perfectly.
- Lemon Juice (optional): Adds a slight tang to brighten the strawberry flavor.
- Powdered Sugar (optional): Use to sweeten the strawberries if they are less ripe.
Variations for No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors and dietary preferences. Whether you want to add texture, swap ingredients for allergies, or boost nutrition, there’s a simple variation you can try.
- Mixed Berry Blend: Substitute or add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a fruity medley.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative to keep it creamy and vegan.
- Chocolate Strawberry: Fold in mini chocolate chips or swirl melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Mint Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh mint or a drop of mint extract for a refreshing lift.
- Crunchy Texture: Mix in crushed cookies, nuts, or granola for some delightful crunch in every bite.
How to Make No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Rinse and hull the strawberries, then chop them into small pieces. If you like a smoother texture, pulse half of them in a blender or food processor, leaving some chunks for texture. Toss with powdered sugar and a splash of lemon juice to sweeten and enhance flavor, then set aside for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This airy base is crucial for your ice cream’s creamy, light consistency.
Step 3: Mix Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
In a separate bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined. This layer of sweetness balances the fresh strawberry punch beautifully.
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Gently fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream. Then fold in the prepared strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until completely firm.
Pro Tips for Making No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
- Chill Your Bowl and Whisk: Keeping equipment cold helps the cream whip faster and hold peaks better.
- Use Ripe Strawberries: The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries means less added sugar is needed.
- Don’t Overmix: Fold carefully to maintain the fluffy texture and trap air in the mixture.
- Let Ice Cream Soften Slightly: Before scooping, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to achieve perfect scoopability.
- Store Properly: Cover the ice cream with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
How to Serve No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
Garnishes
Enhance the look and flavor with fresh strawberry slices, a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce, or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or toasted almonds for a little crunch.
Side Dishes
This ice cream pairs beautifully with warm desserts like brownies or fruit crisps, or even alongside a crisp cookie for texture contrast. Fresh fruit salad is another refreshing option to keep the experience light and fruity.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve scoops in waffle cones, hollowed-out strawberries, or mini glass jars for a fun presentation. For parties, create ice cream sandwiches with soft cookies or layer the ice cream with granola and berries in parfait glasses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any unused No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain the creamy texture for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing
Freeze the ice cream mixture immediately after preparing for best results. A consistent freezing temperature below 0°F (-18°C) guarantees the smoothest texture without ice crystals.
Reheating
No reheating necessary! Instead, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier scooping and a creamier mouthfeel.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid first to avoid a watery ice cream texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Not as written, but you can easily make it vegan-friendly by substituting coconut cream for heavy cream and using a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative.
How long does No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the freezer, it stays fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.
Can I add other fruits or flavors?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and works well with various fruits, chocolate chips, or extracts like mint or almond to create unique versions.
Do I need an ice cream machine for this recipe?
Nope! The whole beauty of No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream is that it requires no machine, making it perfect for easy homemade frozen treats.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of making your own creamy, dreamy No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream at home with just a few simple ingredients. It’s a wonderfully quick way to satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh fruit flavors and no hassle. Give it a try for your next summer gathering, or anytime you want a scoop of pure happiness in a bowl!