Description
This recipe for The Very BEST Strawberry Ice Cream offers a rich, creamy homemade treat bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and a hint of lemon zest. Made using fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and a custard base of egg yolks, sugar, cream, and milk, this ice cream is churned to smooth perfection. It’s ideal for a refreshing summer dessert or anytime you want a naturally fruity, luscious frozen dessert.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture
- 1 pint strawberries, sliced
- Juice and zest of one lemon
- 1/4 cup sugar (from total 1 cup)
Custard Base
- 3 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup sugar (remaining from 1 cup total)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Combine the sliced strawberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 45 minutes to macerate the berries and draw out their juices. After chilling, mash half of the berries using a fork or potato masher to create a textured strawberry base.
- Make the Custard Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks until frothy. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup sugar while continuing to mix well. Stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly for about 20 minutes until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Combine Strawberries and Custard: Add the macerated strawberries along with their juice to the cooled custard mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Add Cream and Chill: Slowly fold in the heavy whipping cream to maintain a light texture. Mix gently ensuring the cream is well incorporated. Pour the final mixture into your ice cream maker.
- Churn in Ice Cream Maker: Freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream reaches a smooth, firm consistency.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the finished strawberry ice cream into an airtight container and store it in the freezer. Allow it to soften slightly before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain the custard after cooking to remove any cooked egg bits before cooling.
- If you do not have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until firm.
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best natural sweetness and aroma.
- Adjust sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your strawberries and personal preference.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American