Escape the heat with this refreshingly delicious blueberry lemon ice cream! This homemade recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring no ice cream maker, and delivers a vibrant flavor combination that's perfect for a hot summer day or a cozy winter treat. It's the ultimate blend of sweet and tart, making it a fantastic dessert or a delightful addition to your healthy meal plans. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this quick dinner alternative that's both easy recipes and delicious dishes rolled into one.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, no need to thaw)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Blueberry Puree Magic
In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries have softened and released their juices (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Smooth Operator
Once cooled, use a hand blender or food processor to puree the blueberry mixture until completely smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds for an extra-smooth texture (optional).
Step 3: Creamy Dream Team
In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Slowly pour in the cooled blueberry puree, whisking gently until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Step 4: Freeze and Enjoy!
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, stirring every hour for the first three hours to prevent large ice crystals from forming. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
Tips for Ice Cream Perfection:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh blueberries will give you the most vibrant flavor and color.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If your blueberries are particularly tart, you may want to add a bit more.
- No Ice Cream Maker Needed: This recipe is specifically designed for those who don't own an ice cream maker. The stirring technique helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Storage: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Variations:
- Raspberry Lemon Twist: Substitute raspberries for blueberries for a different fruity flavor profile.
- Citrus Burst: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a more complex citrus flavor.
- Boozy Blueberry: For adults, add a splash of Grand Marnier or limoncello for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-4g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This simple yet elegant blueberry lemon ice cream is a delightful treat for any occasion. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can result in delicious dishes, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy every creamy, refreshing bite!