Escape the heat with this incredibly refreshing homemade lemon ice cream! This recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, making it perfect for a quick and delicious dessert, or a delightful treat on a hot summer day. Forget those store-bought versions loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives – this homemade delight is bursting with fresh, zesty lemon flavor and creamy texture. It’s the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and will elevate your homemade cooking skills effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1/4 cup lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely. This simple syrup helps to stabilize the ice cream and prevent ice crystals.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled simple syrup, heavy cream, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until well combined. Make sure the lemon zest is finely grated; it will add a beautiful aroma and a burst of flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The ice cream will start as a liquid and gradually thicken into a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Harden the Ice Cream
Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to harden completely. This extra freezing time allows the ice cream to become more solid and easier to scoop.
Tips for the Best Lemon Ice Cream:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a world of difference in the flavor of this ice cream. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it often lacks the vibrant taste of fresh lemons.
- Don't Over-Zest: While lemon zest enhances the flavor, too much can make the ice cream bitter. Start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste if desired.
- Chill the Mixture: Before churning, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the ice cream freeze faster and more evenly.
- Patience is Key: Allow the ice cream to harden fully in the freezer after churning for the best texture and consistency.
Variations:
- Raspberry Lemon Twist: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries to the mixture before churning for a delightful raspberry-lemon swirl.
- Honey Lemon: Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of honey for a subtle floral twist.
- Lemon Poppy Seed: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the mixture for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
This delicious lemon ice cream recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its simple steps and fresh ingredients make it a wonderful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The vibrant flavor and creamy texture are bound to impress your friends and family, cementing its place among your best recipes. Enjoy!