Introduction
Cool down with this creamy, dreamy Blueberry Ice Cream! Packed with fresh blueberries and a silky texture, it’s the perfect treat for hot days. Indulge yourself in this fruity goodness!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 300g fresh blueberries
– 240ml heavy cream
– 240ml whole milk
– 150g granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries start to break down and release their juice.
2. Remove from heat and let the blueberry mixture cool slightly. Once cooled, blend until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add the blueberry puree into the cream mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
6. Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
7. Scoop and enjoy your homemade blueberry ice cream!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Blueberries
In a medium saucepan, combine 300g of fresh blueberries with 150g of granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The blueberries will start to break down and release their sweet, aromatic juices.
Step 2: Puree the Mixture
Once the blueberry mixture has cooled slightly, blend it until smooth. This can be done using an immersion blender or by transferring the mixture to a regular blender. The end result should be a luscious, vibrant blueberry puree.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 240ml of heavy cream, 240ml of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the mixture is silky.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the smooth blueberry puree into the creamy mixture and stir gently to combine. The colors will swirl beautifully, creating a stunning blue-violet hue that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. The blend will thicken and take on a delightful consistency reminiscent of soft-serve ice cream.
Step 6: Freeze the Ice Cream
Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve texture, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the ice cream to firm up to a scoopable delight.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop out your homemade blueberry ice cream and relish each bite of this creamy, fruity treat. Perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day!
Notes
Fresh Blueberries
Using fresh blueberries will give the ice cream a brighter flavor and better texture. If fresh berries are unavailable, frozen blueberries can be a suitable substitute, but avoid those with added sugars.
Churning Tips
Ensure your ice cream maker’s bowl is fully frozen before starting for the best results. If you notice the ice cream isn’t thickening, let it churn for a few more minutes.
Add-Ins
Feel free to customize your blueberry ice cream by adding in some crushed cookies, pieces of chocolate, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This blueberry ice cream pairs wonderfully with a slice of lemon pound cake, or you can serve it alongside fresh fruit for a tasty dessert platter. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of granola can also elevate the dish.
Storage Advice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. For best texture, allow the ice cream to soften in the refrigerator for a few minutes before scooping again.
Flavor Enhancements
For a unique twist, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or almond extract to the cream mixture for an added layer of flavor.
Homemade Variation
This recipe can easily be adapted by substituting other fruits like strawberries or raspberries. Experiment with flavors to discover your personal favorite combination!
Cook techniques
Cooking the Blueberries
Combine fresh blueberries and sugar in a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat. This step helps to break down the berries and release their natural juices, enhancing the flavor of the ice cream.
Blending the Blueberry Mixture
After cooking, blend the blueberry mixture until smooth. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender ensures a creamy texture, free of chunky bits, which is perfect for ice cream.
Whisking the Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. This creates a rich base for the ice cream, complementing the sweetness of the blueberries.
Combining Ingredients
Once the blueberry puree is smooth, incorporate it into the cream mixture and stir until well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout the ice cream.
Churning the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Churning incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a light and creamy texture.
Freezing for Firmness
Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. This final freezing step is essential for achieving the desired firm consistency of the ice cream.
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours until you achieve a creamy texture.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can incorporate other fruits, nuts, or chocolate pieces to customize your blueberry ice cream.
How long will the ice cream last in the freezer?
Homemade blueberry ice cream can last in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks if stored in an airtight container.
Is there a dairy-free version of this blueberry ice cream?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or another dairy-free alternative to make a delicious dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Indulging in homemade blueberry ice cream is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh blueberries and the creamy richness of dairy. Perfect for cooling down during those warm days, this treat is simple to make and sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your fruity delight!
Berry Swirl Yogurt Parfait
Layer blueberry ice cream with Greek yogurt and granola for a delicious and healthy parfait. Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Blueberry Banana Smoothie Bowl
Blend blueberry ice cream with ripe bananas and a splash of almond milk. Top with fresh fruits, chia seeds, and nuts for a nutritious breakfast.
Blueberry Ice Cream Sandwich
Scoop blueberry ice cream between two oatmeal cookies for a fun and tasty dessert. Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips for added flavor.
Blueberry Milkshake
Blend blueberry ice cream with milk and a handful of fresh blueberries for a thick and creamy milkshake. Serve with whipped cream on top.
Blueberry and Lemon Tart
Use blueberry ice cream as a filling in a pre-baked tart shell, topped with a lemon glaze. This combination creates a refreshing dessert with a delightful zing.
