Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate than with a creamy, dreamy homemade peach ice cream? This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring no fancy equipment or complicated techniques. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sweet taste of fresh peaches all season long. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you to create a delicious dessert that everyone will love. Get ready to transform juicy summer peaches into a delightful, homemade ice cream sensation!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 4 large peaches)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- Begin by preparing your peaches. Wash, peel, and slice them. If your peaches aren’t perfectly ripe, you can gently heat them in a saucepan for a few minutes to soften them slightly, making them easier to blend.
Make the peach puree:
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Combine the sliced peaches and sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches soften and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender and puree until completely smooth.
Blend it all together:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
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Gently pour the peach puree into the cream mixture, stirring until well combined.
Freeze for deliciousness:
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Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
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Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to harden further. This extra freezing step ensures a firmer texture.
Tips for the Best Peach Ice Cream:
- Peach Selection: Use ripe, but not overripe, peaches for the best flavor and texture. Overripe peaches can make the ice cream icy.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference and the sweetness of your peaches. Taste the peach puree before adding it to the cream mixture and adjust accordingly.
- Freezing Time: Allowing the ice cream to harden in the freezer after churning ensures a smoother, less icy texture.
Variations:
- Spiced Peach Ice Cream: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Peach and Cream Ice Cream: For a richer, creamier texture, increase the amount of heavy cream.
- Peach and Raspberry Swirl: Fold in a cup of fresh raspberries during the final stages of churning for a beautiful swirl of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-5g
This easy homemade peach ice cream is a delicious and refreshing dessert perfect for a hot summer day. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect addition to your summer recipe collection. Enjoy this delightful treat and let the sweet taste of summer linger long after the last spoonful!