There is something truly magical about homemade ice cream, especially when it is bursting with the fresh, vibrant flavor of juicy berries. This No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe takes all the fuss out of ice cream-making while delivering a creamy, dreamy dessert you’ll find yourself craving again and again. With just a handful of simple ingredients and zero need for an ice cream maker, this recipe transforms everyday strawberries into a luscious treat perfect for summer days, celebrations, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. Every component works together to create a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and that unmistakable fresh strawberry zing. You’ll be amazed at how just a few kitchen staples can come together to produce such a delightful frozen dessert.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, fragrant berries for the best natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This helps draw out the juice from the strawberries, intensifying their flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a subtle brightness that complements the sweetness and lifts the overall flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Provides the creamy foundation and natural sweetness, eliminating the need for more sugar.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, this gives the ice cream its light, airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the fresh strawberry flavor beautifully.
How to Make No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by tossing your hulled and sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and a splash of lemon juice in a medium bowl. Letting them rest for 10 to 15 minutes draws out their natural juices, making the puree extra flavorful and vibrant. This simple step sets the foundation for that authentic strawberry taste you’ll want to savor in each bite.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberries
Once the strawberries have released their juices, pop the whole mixture into a blender or food processor. Pulverize until smooth for a silky texture or leave it a bit chunky if you love little bursts of berry in your ice cream. This puree is the star of the show, so feel free to adjust the consistency to your personal preference.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream along with vanilla extract until soft yet firm peaks form. This whipped cream will add the luscious lightness and volume that make the ice cream so irresistible without any churning required—simply fold to keep that fluffy texture intact.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream to keep the airy fluffiness alive. Then, carefully add the sweetened condensed milk, folding it in until everything is perfectly combined and smooth. The key here is gentle mixing to keep your ice cream creamy and dreamy rather than dense.
Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer the luscious mixture into a loaf pan or any airtight container, leveling it out with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to avoid ice crystals and pop it in the freezer. Let it chill for at least 6 hours, or better yet, overnight, so the flavors fully meld and the texture sets perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After patiently waiting for at least 6 hours, your no churn strawberry ice cream is ready to dive into! Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy the fresh, creamy flavor straight away. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.
How to Serve No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your ice cream by sprinkling fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or crumbled shortbread cookies on top. These add textural contrast and extra bursts of flavor that complement the luscious strawberry base.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside warm berry cobbler, a simple sponge cake, or fresh fruit salad for a refreshing, full dessert experience. The creamy ice cream cuts through the warmth or acidity perfectly, making every spoonful taste like a mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider layering your strawberry ice cream in clear glasses with chunks of fresh berries and crushed graham crackers to create a strawberry ice cream parfait. Or, for a playful touch, use it to fill crepes or waffles for an impressive breakfast or brunch treat that doubles as dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer. Be sure to press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals and maintain the creamy texture.
Freezing
Since this ice cream contains no egg base and uses whipped cream, freezing results in a soft, scoopable texture naturally. Keeping it tightly covered in an airtight container is key to preserving its delightful creaminess and fresh flavor during storage.
Reheating
Ice cream isn’t really meant to be reheated, but if it becomes too firm in the freezer, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping. This brief rest time brings it to an ideal serving consistency without melting it.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess juice before mixing with the sugar and lemon juice to avoid making the ice cream watery.
Is there a dairy-free version of this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe?
You can substitute coconut cream for the heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative to make a delicious vegan-friendly version.
How long does this ice cream last in the freezer?
Properly stored, this ice cream stays fresh for up to 2 weeks, after which the quality may start to degrade, but the flavor should still be enjoyable.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Fold in any extra ingredients gently after combining the puree and whipped cream to keep the texture light and airy.
Why doesn’t this ice cream need churning?
The whipped cream adds air and lightness that would normally come from churning in a machine, giving you that creamy texture without the hassle.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on the lookout for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that doesn’t require an ice cream maker or complicated steps, this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is your new best friend. It’s fresh, vibrant, and creamy in a way that feels indulgent yet effortless. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought strawberry ice cream again!
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No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream is a creamy, refreshing dessert made with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for a quick homemade treat without the need for an ice cream maker, it delivers rich strawberry flavor with a smooth, velvety texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Main Ice Cream Base
- 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 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
- Blend the strawberries: Once the strawberries have released their juice, use a blender or food processor to puree the strawberries until smooth. For a textured ice cream, leave the puree slightly chunky.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Combine the ingredients: Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream, then carefully fold in the sweetened condensed milk until everything is well combined to maintain fluffiness.
- Freeze the ice cream: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container. Smooth the surface with a spatula and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 6 hours until fully set and creamy.
- Serve: Once frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. Store any leftovers in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries.
- You can adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Leaving small chunks of strawberry in the puree adds texture to the ice cream.
- Make sure to fold ingredients gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature before scooping for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
