Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream: A Deliciously Creamy Summer Treat

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer in every creamy bite. As a lover of both cheesecake and ice cream, I can confidently say that this recipe is a match made in dessert heaven. The combination of rich cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and a hint of graham cracker crust creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and refreshing. Historically, cheesecake has roots that trace back to ancient Greece, but when combined with the cool, velvety texture of ice cream, it transforms into a modern classic that everyone adores.

People love Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream not just for its delicious taste, but also for its delightful texture that balances creaminess with fruity freshness. It’s the perfect dessert for warm days, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy on your own. Plus, making this ice cream at home is surprisingly easy, allowing you to savor the flavors of summer anytime you wish. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for texture)

Preparing the Strawberry Mixture

1. Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Once they are clean, hull them by removing the green tops and slicing them into quarters. This will help release their juices and make them easier to blend later. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and the lemon juice. Toss them gently to coat the strawberries evenly. The sugar will draw out the juices from the strawberries, creating a delicious syrup. 3. Let the strawberry mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the strawberries to macerate, enhancing their flavor and sweetness. 4. After the strawberries have rested, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, but leave some small chunks for texture if you prefer. If you like a smoother consistency, blend until completely pureed. 5. Set the strawberry puree aside while we prepare the cheesecake base.

Making the Cheesecake Base

6. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This should take about 2-3 minutes. 7. Gradually add the heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture while continuing to beat. Start on low speed to avoid splattering, then increase to medium speed. Beat until the mixture is thick and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. 8. Next, pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, resembling a thick batter. 9. Now, gently fold in the strawberry puree into the cheesecake mixture. Use a spatula to combine them, being careful not to overmix. You want to see swirls of strawberry throughout the cheesecake base.

Chilling the Mixture

10. Once the strawberry puree is fully incorporated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Churning the Ice Cream

11. After the mixture has chilled, it’s time to churn the ice cream. If you have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. 12. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream! Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process for about 3-4 hours until the ice cream is firm and creamy.

Adding the Graham Cracker Crust (Optional)

13. If you want to add a graham cracker crust texture to your ice cream, now is the time to do it. Once the ice cream has churned and is starting to thicken, fold in the crushed graham crackers gently. This will give your ice cream a delightful crunch and a hint of that classic cheesecake flavor. 14. If you’re using the no-churn method, you can sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top of the mixture before placing it in the freezer. This way, they will be evenly distributed throughout the ice cream as it freezes.

Freezing the Ice Cream

15. Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. For best results, freeze the ice cream for at least 4-6 hours, or until it is firm enough to scoop. 16. If you’re using the no-churn method, make sure to freeze the mixture for at least 6-8 hours, or until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving the Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

17. Once the ice cream is fully frozen, it’s time to serve! Remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature

Conclusion:

In summary, this Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries. The rich, velvety texture paired with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries creates a dessert that is not only refreshing but also indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it at a family gathering, this ice cream is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider topping your Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with variations by adding in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even mixing in some chocolate chips for a delightful twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of making your own ice cream at home. It’s a fun and rewarding process that will leave you with a delicious treat to enjoy. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them know how much you loved this Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream. I can’t wait to hear about your creations and any unique twists you put on this classic recipe! Print