If you’re craving a luscious, creamy treat that bursts with fresh berry goodness, this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring no ice cream machine at all, yet delivering a texture and flavor so rich, you’ll swear it came from a fancy creamery. Using ripe strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and fluffy whipped cream, this recipe lets you whip up delightful homemade ice cream in just minutes and then enjoy that sweet, fruity magic after a few hours in the freezer. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging yourself, this no fuss, all-flavor dessert will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making the perfect creamy and fruity No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe. Each simple element plays a special role, from the naturally sweet strawberries that give the ice cream its vibrant pink hue and fresh flavor, to the whipped cream that makes it light and airy.
- Fresh Strawberries: 2 cups, hulled and chopped – They bring juicy sweetness, beautiful color, and that unmistakable strawberry taste.
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup – Helps to macerate the strawberries and add balanced sweetness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 oz) – Gives the ice cream its decadent creaminess and natural sweetness without extra effort.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups – Whipped to soft peaks to provide lightness and fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds warmth and rounds out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
Start by mashing the fresh strawberries with the granulated sugar in a bowl. This simple step allows the berries to release their natural juices and become wonderfully syrupy, creating a sweet, fruity base that will shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This is essential for achieving the airy, light texture that makes no churn ice cream so irresistibly creamy and smooth without the need for an ice cream maker.
Step 3: Combine Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream. This combination adds richness and the perfect sweetness, giving your ice cream a silky mouthfeel and balanced flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Strawberries
Carefully fold the macerated strawberries into the cream mixture. Do this slowly to create beautiful marbled streaks of strawberry syrup throughout the ice cream, rather than mixing it all in evenly. This adds bursts of flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best consistency. No churning means less hassle, just deliciousness waiting to be enjoyed.
How to Serve No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves, a handful of fresh strawberry slices, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate to take your serving to the next level. These simple toppings complement the ice cream’s sweet and creamy nature perfectly.
Side Dishes
This ice cream pairs beautifully with light, summery desserts like lemon shortbread cookies, angel food cake, or a fresh fruit salad. It also makes a refreshing contrast alongside warm desserts such as brownies or apple pie.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve scoops of this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe in waffle cones or hollowed-out fresh strawberries for an Instagram-worthy dessert. You can also layer it with crushed cookies and berries in parfait glasses for an elegant look and delightful texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After scooping your ice cream, keep the leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent freezer burn. Store in the coldest part of your freezer to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
Because this is a no churn recipe, it freezes well without ice crystals forming, but for the creamiest texture, consume within 1-2 weeks. Beyond that, the flavor might start to dull, and the texture can become a bit icy.
Reheating
Ice cream is best enjoyed frozen, so no reheating here. To soften it slightly if it’s too hard, just let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping and serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before macerating with sugar to avoid excess water in the ice cream mixture, which can affect texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This particular version uses dairy and sweetened condensed milk, so it is not vegan. However, you could experiment with coconut cream and a vegan condensed milk alternative to create a dairy-free variation.
How long does the freezing process take?
Generally, freezing for at least 4 hours is needed for the ice cream to fully set. For best results and easier scooping, freezing overnight is recommended.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is very adaptable. Try swapping strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for fresh, fruity variations.
Do I need to whip the cream to stiff peaks?
It is best to whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, which provides the ideal fluffy texture. Stiff peaks may make folding in the condensed milk and berries more difficult and affect the ice cream’s creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Making this No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe is like giving yourself a big, fruity hug on a hot day. It’s simple, quick, and delivers that creamy, dreamy scoop of happiness you crave without any complicated equipment. Once you try it, I bet it will become one of your favorite homemade treats to whip up again and again. Go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with homemade ice cream all over again.
Print
No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream recipe is a simple and delightful way to enjoy creamy, homemade strawberry ice cream without the need for an ice cream maker. Using fresh strawberries, whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of vanilla, this treat combines natural sweetness and rich creaminess with a gorgeous marbled effect. Ready in just over four hours, it offers a refreshing dessert perfect for warm days or any occasion.
Ingredients
Strawberries
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Ice Cream Base
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Macerate the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the hulled and chopped strawberries with the granulated sugar. Mash lightly to release their juices and set aside for 10 minutes to allow the mixture to macerate and develop sweetness and flavor.
- Whip the Cream: Chill a mixing bowl, then pour the heavy whipping cream into it. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy texture essential for the ice cream’s creaminess.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream until fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth and sweet ice cream base.
- Fold in Strawberries: Carefully fold the macerated strawberries with their juices into the creamy mixture to create a beautiful marbled effect, distributing the strawberries evenly without deflating the whipped cream.
- Freeze: Transfer the combined mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, allowing the ice cream to set completely.
- Serve: Scoop the no churn strawberry ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. Optionally, top with fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- For a smoother texture, strain out large chunks of strawberries if desired.
- Make sure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping to reach soft peaks quickly.
- This recipe can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 week; let soften slightly before scooping.
- Add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts before freezing for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
