Tired of the same old ice cream flavors? Craving something rich, creamy, and utterly decadent, yet surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This cream cheese ice cream recipe is your answer. Forget those store-bought tubs filled with artificial ingredients; this homemade version delivers a luxuriously smooth texture and a tangy sweetness that will leave you wanting more. It's the perfect easy recipe for a quick dessert or a special occasion treat. This healthy-ish option is sure to become one of your best recipes. Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple recipe!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy ice cream. You can speed up the process by cutting it into smaller pieces and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until fully incorporated.
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Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, or it will become grainy.
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Gently Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be sure not to overmix; you want to retain the airy texture of the whipped cream. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
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Freeze: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover tightly. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the ice cream to fully set.
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Serve & Enjoy: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to slightly soften. Scoop and enjoy your homemade cream cheese ice cream!
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your ice cream will depend heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for good quality cream cheese and heavy cream for the best results.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to icy crystals in your ice cream.
- Freeze in an airtight container: This prevents ice crystals from forming and helps maintain the creaminess of the ice cream.
Variations:
- Lemon Cream Cheese Ice Cream: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright and refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Cream Cheese Ice Cream: Stir in ½ cup of cocoa powder along with the vanilla extract.
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Ice Cream: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries (pureed or chopped) after combining the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A typical serving size is about ½ cup.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 30-35g
- Protein: 4-5g
This quick dinner idea is a delightful and easy homemade treat perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this delicious dish! This is one of the best recipes for a simple yet elegant dessert that's sure to impress your family and friends. It's a surefire hit, and the easy steps make it perfect for even the busiest of cooks. Remember to share your delicious creations and tag us in your photos!