Homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

Homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is a creamy and delightful treat that blends the classic flavors of rich vanilla ice cream with a sweet, tangy cherry swirl. This recipe features a smooth, vanilla ice cream base made with heavy cream and whole milk, swirled with a luscious cherry sauce for a refreshing and flavorful dessert. Perfect for summer days or any time you crave a sweet, homemade indulgence, this ice cream offers a deliciously satisfying experience.

Ingredients:

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cherry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cherry Mixture:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let cool. For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture until smooth, then let it cool completely.
2. Make Ice Cream Base:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Chill Base:
   • Refrigerate the ice cream base for at least 2 hours or until it is well chilled.
4. Churn Ice Cream:
   • Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add Cherry Swirl:
   • Once the ice cream is churned and has a soft-serve consistency, gently fold in the cooled cherry mixture, creating a swirl effect. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the cherry swirl distinct.
6. Freeze:
   • Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
7. Serve:
   • Scoop and serve the homemade cherry vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Tips:

• Cherry Variations: You can use different types of berries or fruit preserves if cherries are not available.
• Smooth Ice Cream: For a smoother texture, make sure your ice cream base is well chilled before churning.
• No Ice Cream Maker? If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can place the mixture in a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes until the ice cream is firm.
• Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy your homemade cherry vanilla ice cream!