Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a scoop (or two!) of homemade strawberry ice cream? This recipe, perfectly crafted for your KitchenAid stand mixer, delivers a creamy, intensely flavorful ice cream that's sure to become a family favorite. Forget those artificial store-bought versions – this easy recipe offers a delicious and refreshing homemade treat, perfect for a quick dessert or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this incredibly simple yet rewarding recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries. Slice them into smaller pieces for even distribution and quicker freezing.
Make the Custard Base:
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In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let the mixture boil.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. This gentle heating process creates a smooth and creamy base.
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Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Chill and Churn:
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Let the mixture cool completely. This step is crucial for optimal ice cream texture. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
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Once cooled, gently stir in the sliced strawberries.
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Pour the strawberry mixture into your KitchenAid bowl fitted with the ice cream maker attachment. Churn according to your ice cream maker's instructions – generally, this takes about 20-30 minutes.
Freeze and Enjoy:
- Once churned, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to harden completely. This allows the ice cream to reach its peak deliciousness.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your ice cream will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries and high-fat dairy products for the creamiest results.
- Don't over-churn: Over-churning can result in icy ice cream. Follow your ice cream maker's instructions carefully.
- Freeze in stages: Freezing the ice cream in stages helps to achieve a smoother texture.
Variations:
- Add a touch of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the sweetness of the strawberries and adds a bright, refreshing element.
- Mix in some chocolate: Fold in some chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Use different berries: Substitute the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend for a delightful variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your servings. For a rough estimate, assume a serving size of ½ cup. Nutritional information can be obtained by using online nutritional calculators, inputting the ingredients and serving size.
This KitchenAid strawberry ice cream recipe is a perfect example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be. The delightful combination of fresh strawberries and creamy texture will impress your friends and family. Enjoy this delicious and healthy summer treat!