If you’ve been dreaming of a luscious dessert that bursts with fresh summer flavors and requires zero fancy equipment, the No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is your new best friend. This delicious treat combines juicy strawberries, creamy whipped cream, and sweetened condensed milk to create a smooth, velvety ice cream that’s refreshingly sweet and perfectly textured. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet so satisfying—a dessert that feels homemade but requires no ice cream maker at all. Get ready to scoop up happiness with every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dessert that tastes both luxurious and light. Each component plays a vital role, from the ripe strawberries giving natural sweetness and color, to the whipped cream providing that airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Fresh strawberries (2 cups): Choose ripe and juicy berries for the best natural flavor and vibrant color.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the tartness of strawberries and helps extract their natural juices.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the strawberry flavor and adds a subtle tang to the ice cream.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Brings sweetness and creaminess without needing to churn the mixture.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whipped into fluffy peaks, it’s the heart of this no churn ice cream’s silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the strawberries’ natural notes and adds warmth to every bite.
How to Make No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by combining the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Letting the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes allows the strawberries to release their delicious juices, ramping up the flavor and sweetness naturally. It’s like creating a fresh, fruity syrup that will infuse the entire ice cream.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberries
Next, puree the strawberries along with their juices using a blender or food processor. You can blend until completely smooth for a classic creamy texture or leave it a bit chunky if you like a more rustic, fruity bite in your ice cream. This step determines how strawberry-forward and textured your ice cream will be.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until you get stiff peaks. This whipped cream is going to be the light and airy base of your ice cream, so be sure to whip it just right—it should hold its shape but still be soft enough to gently fold.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Now for the magic moment: fold the strawberry puree gently into the whipped cream to keep all that luscious airiness. Then fold in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is evenly combined and beautifully pink. This careful folding ensures your ice cream stays fluffy and creamy without losing volume.
Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer your strawberry mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container. Smooth out the top with a spatula, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it into the freezer. Freeze for at least six hours, or ideally overnight, until the ice cream is fully set and scoopable.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once frozen solid, scoop your homemade No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe into bowls or cones. The texture is creamy and dreamy with vibrant strawberry flavor in every bite, perfect for hot days or any time you want a refreshing treat.
How to Serve No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes can take your ice cream experience to the next level. Fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of chopped mint leaves, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add extra layers of flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget a dusting of crushed toasted almonds or chocolate shavings if you want a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
Strawberry ice cream pairs wonderfully with light dessert sides that complement its tangy sweetness. Try serving it alongside warm pound cake, freshly baked shortcakes, or a crisp waffle cone. Fresh fruit salad or a berry compote also makes a refreshing accompaniment that highlights the strawberry star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider scooping the ice cream into hollowed-out strawberries or mini waffle cones for individual servings. Layer it in parfait glasses with granola and whipped cream for a luscious strawberry sundae. You can even use it as a filling for ice cream sandwiches with your favorite cookies, adding a homemade touch sure to impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best perks of this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is how well it stores. Simply keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer, and your creamy strawberry treat will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks.
Freezing
To achieve the perfect consistency, freeze the ice cream mixture for at least six hours. Longer freezing times are fine but can cause the ice cream to firm up even more. If it gets too hard, just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping to soften.
Reheating
Unlike dishes that require reheating, ice cream’s magic is all about being enjoyed cold. If it becomes too frozen, allow it to sit at room temperature briefly instead of applying heat, to preserve its creamy texture without melting or separating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before blending to avoid watering down the ice cream.
Is there a dairy-free version of this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute coconut cream for heavy whipping cream and use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
How long does it take to make this ice cream?
The prep time is quick—about 15 to 20 minutes—but you’ll need to freeze the mixture for at least six hours, so plan ahead for that perfect scoop.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Gently fold in small mix-ins after combining the main ingredients. This adds extra texture and flavor while keeping the ice cream’s creamy consistency.
What’s the best way to scoop no churn ice cream?
For clean scoops, dip your ice cream scoop or spoon in warm water and shake off the excess before serving. This helps glide through the ice cream smoothly without sticking.
Final Thoughts
This No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to making homemade ice cream without any fuss. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a special treat, yet is incredibly easy to prepare with ingredients you probably already have. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this fresh and creamy ice cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and savor a scoop of pure strawberry bliss!
Print
No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream is a creamy, luscious homemade treat made without an ice cream maker. Combining fresh strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped cream, this easy recipe requires minimal effort and freezes into a delightful dessert perfect for warm days or special occasions.
Ingredients
Strawberries Mix
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let the strawberries sit for 10 to 15 minutes so they release their juices and become sweet and fragrant.
- Blend the strawberries: After the strawberries have released their juices, use a blender or food processor to puree them until smooth. If you prefer some texture in your ice cream, you can leave the puree slightly chunky.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream along with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, which will provide the fluffy base for your ice cream.
- Combine the ingredients: Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream to retain the airy texture. Then fold in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Freeze the ice cream: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until the ice cream is fully set.
- Serve: Once frozen, scoop the creamy strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones. Serve immediately or store any leftovers tightly covered in the freezer for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen strawberries if fresh are not in season; just thaw and drain excess liquid before pureeing.
- For a sweeter ice cream, increase sugar in the strawberry mixture slightly according to taste.
- Use a chilled bowl and beaters for whipping cream for best results.
- This recipe requires no ice cream maker, making it super easy and quick to prepare at home.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain creamy texture.
