Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
A luscious, homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream that blends fresh strawberries with creamy cheese and natural sweeteners for a quick, easy, and decadent frozen dessert.
Equipment
- 1 high-speed blender
- 1 ice cream maker (2-quart capacity recommended)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese softened
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups fresh strawberries washed and hulled (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup liquid honey room temperature or 3/4 cup pure amber maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled waffle cones or graham crackers
- Freshly sliced or diced strawberries
Instructions
- Blend the Cream Base: In a high-powered blender, combine the softened cream cheese, half-and-half, and heavy cream. Blend on medium speed just until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Sweeten the Mixture: With the blender running on low speed, gradually drizzle in the honey or maple syrup. This slow addition helps prevent clumping and guarantees a perfectly blended, sweet base.
- Add Flavorful Fruits and Extras: Add the fresh strawberries, vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the blender. Pulse or blend on medium speed until the strawberries are fully pureed and the mixture is uniform in color and texture.
- Chill the Ice Cream Base: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours. This step is crucial to develop flavors and ensure the base is thoroughly chilled before freezing.
- Freeze the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into a 2-quart ice cream maker. Freeze according to your machine’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, until the texture thickens to a soft-serve consistency that holds on a spoon.
- Optional Firming Step: For a firmer ice cream, transfer the soft-serve into an airtight container and freeze for an additional 3 to 4 hours. This step is optional but recommended if you prefer a scoopable texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with crumbled waffle cones or graham crackers and fresh strawberries for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen berries can be used. Allow them to thaw completely, keeping any juices, then blend as directed. This will add extra strawberry flavor and natural sweetness.
- Sweetener Variations: Feel free to substitute honey or maple syrup with agave nectar or a sugar alternative to suit dietary needs. Adjust quantity to taste.
- Chilling Importance: Don’t skip the chilling step before freezing; it helps the ice cream churn properly and results in a creamier texture.
- Toppings Ideas: For added crunch, try crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or toasted coconut flakes alongside the suggested toppings.
- Nutritional Info: This recipe is rich in healthy fats and protein due to the cream cheese and dairy, providing a satisfying and indulgent treat without added artificial ingredients.