Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 240ml (1 cup) whole milk
- 240ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Time: Total estimated time: 5 hours (including chilling and freezing time)
Instructions
Step 1: Macerate the Strawberries
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 75g (1/3 cup) of sugar. Stir well to coat the strawberries in sugar. Cover and let them macerate for around 1 hour, or until they release their juices.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberries
Place the macerated strawberries and their juices into a blender or food processor. Blitz until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier ice cream, pulse the mixture to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, remaining 75g (1/3 cup) of sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Once the sugar is dissolved, add the pureed strawberries to the mixture. Chill this mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to ensure it’s well chilled.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 20-25 minutes until you achieve a soft-serve consistency.
Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer the churned ice cream into a lidded plastic container. Cover it with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 3 hours or until firm.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the strawberry ice cream is set, scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends. You can enhance the experience with a garnish of fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint.
Conclusion
Congratulations on creating your very own Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream, a splendidly refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. This artisan approach to ice cream making not only brings out the best of strawberries but also allows for endless personalization with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a cozy evening, this ice cream makes for a comforting indulgence. Share it, savor it, and keep the tradition alive with every delectable spoonful!