Summer just got a whole lot sweeter! Forget those store-bought tubs of ice cream, packed with artificial ingredients. Today, we're making homemade peach ice cream, and the best part? It's surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals. This recipe is perfect for your Cuisinart ice cream maker, guaranteeing a creamy, dreamy texture that will leave you wanting more. Get ready for a taste of pure summer sunshine!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 3 large peaches)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Peaches
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Peel and slice: Wash the peaches thoroughly. To easily peel them, score an "X" at the bottom of each peach and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This will loosen the skin, allowing you to peel it off effortlessly. Slice the peaches into small pieces.
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Simmer and Sweeten: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches soften and release their juices (about 8-10 minutes). This creates a delicious peach puree.
Making the Ice Cream Base
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Blend for Smoothness: Once the peaches have softened, carefully transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth. A few small lumps are okay; it won’t affect the final texture too much.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Gently pour in the peach puree and add a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Churning and Freezing
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Chill Before Churning: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy ice cream.
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Churn in Your Cuisinart: Pour the chilled mixture into your Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
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Hardening: 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, or preferably overnight, to allow it to harden completely.
Tips for Peachy Perfection:
- Peach Selection: Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor. Slightly underripe peaches work well too, as they will soften during cooking.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference and the sweetness of the peaches. Taste the puree before adding it to the cream mixture and adjust the sugar accordingly.
- Freezing Time: Freezing time may vary depending on your freezer. Check the ice cream after 2 hours; if it's still too soft, freeze for another hour.
Variations:
- Spicy Peach: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of bourbon for a sophisticated kick.
- Peach & Coconut: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Peach & Cream Cheese: Add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the ice cream base for a richer, tangier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact peaches and the size of your servings. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) might look like this:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-4g
Enjoy this easy, healthy, and delicious homemade peach ice cream! It's the perfect summer treat, ideal for satisfying those sweet cravings while enjoying the best recipes and simple homemade cooking. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to for quick dinner ideas.