Today we embark into the world of homemade ice cream. And whether you are just dipping your spoon into the culinary scene or are a seasoned kitchen guru, crafting your own creamy concoctions is an experience sure to tantalize the taste buds. Sometimes you can plan ahead, and get your ice cream base going eight hours ahead of time. But sometimes you want a creamy, frozen treat right now! We have solutions for both planned out desserts and last minute crazy cravings and everything in between. So let’s dive in!
Choosing the Perfect Ice Cream Machine
First things first, let’s talk the tools of the trade–ice cream machines. While it’s possible to craft this delicious frozen dessert without an ice cream machine, investing in one will definitely elevate your homemade treats. It isn’t always our favorite thing to add another appliance, but if you want to make homemade ice cream a tradition for your home, it’s worth the investment and the space. Not all ice cream machines are the barrel bucket you have to put outside to churn. We have several options for the home chef seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality. Our three favorite ice cream machines for home include the Cuisinart 2 Quart Ice Cream Maker, Cuisinart Ice 100 Compressor Ice Cream Maker, and the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker.
Ice Cream Attachments for Your Mixers
Did you know you can also get additional bowls or even ice cream maker attachments for some of your mixers? This can be a game changer, especially if you already have an appliance you love. For the Cuisinart 2 Quart, we like having an extra bowl on hand so there is always one in the freezer whenever we get that craving for homemade ice cream. But we have also really liked using the KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment and the Bosch Ice Cream Maker Attachment. And we can’t wait to try out the ice cream attachment for the Ankarsrum Mixer.
Our Best Ice Cream Base
This is it, the recipe you’ve been looking for. We love this simple, yet versatile ice cream base. You can choose how sugary, creamy, and rich you want to make it. You can also manipulate and adapt it however you need to, working with what you might have on hand. Basically, all you need is 3 cups of dairy (either heavy cream or whole milk), 3-6 egg yolks depending on how rich you want your ice cream, and then up to a cup of your favorite sweetener (aka. sugar!) depending on how sweet you want your treat. That’s it! And then you can add your mix ins and flavors and toppings, whatever your preferences. See the full recipe and instructions here for this ice cream base.
10 Tips for Homemade Ice Cream
Making ice cream at home such a fun way to get the entire family involved. What’s more, you can customize basically everything! But it can get sticky trying to get the perfect creamy yet firm consistency that is a trademark of good ice cream. We want to help! Here are some of the best tips and techniques we have discovered to improve your own ice cream making. Making homemade ice cream is both art and science partnered with the best tools and techniques. With a handful of delicious recipes and a little practice following these tips, you can expect to get the best results.
Other Recipes to Try
The thing we love about ice cream is there isn’t one right way to do it. In fact, there are so many fun and unique ways to make and enjoy ice cream! And having these homemade treats offers that special touch you just can’t get from store-bought products. Here are three of our favorite ways to make ice cream at home: Cheesecake Ice Cream, Classic Ice Cream Sandwich, and Homemade Choco Tacos. I scream, you scream, these all scream best ever summer dessert!
Mix Ins & Toppings
This is the fun part, at least we think it is. Choosing what to put in and on your ice cream is such a personal preference. The possibilities are truly endless. And there is nothing better than going to an ice cream bar and finding your favorite mix ins. It’s the best! Whether it’s Chopped Butterfingers, Rainbow Sprinkles, Toasted Coconut, or Mini Marshmallows–we have all the bases covered. And that’s just toppings. For sauces we have Chocolate Sauce, Caramel Sauce, Butterscotch Topping, and even Mallo Creme Topping. Mix up all your favorite combinations right at home, or come up with something completely new and create a signature dish. And whatever you do, do NOT forget the Maraschino Cherry on top!
Ice Cream Scoops
Having the right tools can make all the difference when scooping and serving ice cream. And ice cream scoops and spoons come in all different sizes, shapes, and materials. From classic scoops to more modern marvels, there are options to suit every occasion and preference. Traditional stainless steel scoops offer durability and ease of use. Ice cream spades have special grips that make scooping easier and more comfortable than ever. And squeeze dishers and thumb dishers have little mechanisms that make it easy to get the ice cream out of the cold scoop. Any one of these could be the solution you are looking for.
