Homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect summer treat, this Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is a delightful combination of rich, creamy vanilla ice cream with sweet cherry swirls and chocolate chunks. Whether you’re enjoying it as a refreshing dessert or simply craving something sweet, this easy-to-make homemade ice cream is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is a fan-favorite for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, with no eggs or complicated cooking involved. The rich vanilla ice cream base, paired with homemade cherry filling and the optional addition of chocolate chunks, brings a unique and flavorful twist to a classic favorite. It’s a perfect treat for both kids and adults, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple at your family gatherings.

Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

To make this delicious cherry vanilla ice cream, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. The fresh cherries are the star of the show, creating a beautiful swirl throughout the ice cream, while the chocolate chunks add an extra crunch and layer of flavor.

For the Cherry Filling:

• Fresh cherries: Sweet, juicy cherries provide a burst of flavor and color in the ice cream.
• Granulated sugar: Helps sweeten the cherries, enhancing their natural sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling slightly, giving it the right texture.

For the Vanilla Ice Cream:

• Heavy whipping cream: Creates a rich, creamy base that makes the ice cream smooth and decadent.
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the base, making the texture richer.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and enhances the vanilla flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the ice cream with a deep, aromatic vanilla flavor.
• Sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors in the ice cream.
• Chocolate chunks: Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and a bit of extra sweetness.

Alternative Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

If you prefer to tweak this recipe to fit dietary preferences or availability of ingredients, here are a few substitutions you can try:

• For the cherries: You can substitute fresh cherries with frozen cherries or a jarred cherry pie filling for convenience.
• For the heavy cream: Use coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• For chocolate chunks: Try dark chocolate or even crushed cookies for a different texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

Making this cherry vanilla ice cream is a straightforward process that results in a wonderfully creamy dessert. Follow these steps for the perfect homemade ice cream:

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
   • Pit and quarter the fresh cherries.
   • In a saucepan, stir together sugar, water, and cornstarch.
   • Add the cherries to the mixture and stir to coat them.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until it thickens.
   • Remove from heat and let it cool before refrigerating until completely chilled.
2. Make the Vanilla Ice Cream Base:
   • Whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt in a large bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
   • Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • When the ice cream starts to thicken, add the chocolate chunks slowly while the machine continues to churn.
3. Freeze the Ice Cream:
   • Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, spoon about 1/3 of the ice cream into an airtight container.
   • Layer 1/3 of the chilled cherry filling over the ice cream, and repeat the process two more times, alternating layers of ice cream and cherry filling.
   • Cover the ice cream with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent ice crystals from forming.
   • Seal the container and freeze for 2-3 hours or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pre-chill your ice cream bowl: If you’re using an ice cream maker with a freezer bowl, make sure to freeze it for at least 24 hours beforehand. If you’re using a compressor ice cream maker, chill the bowl for at least 15 minutes.
• Freeze the container: Place the container you’ll be freezing the ice cream in the freezer ahead of time to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when transferred from the machine.
• Avoid freezer burn: Cover the surface of the ice cream with wax paper or parchment paper to protect it from air exposure, which can cause ice crystals to form.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

While Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by pairing it with different desserts or adding unique twists. Here are a few ideas:

• Pairings: Serve the ice cream with a slice of warm pie, such as apple or peach, for a perfect contrast of temperatures and textures. It also pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or fresh whipped cream.
• Variations: For a dairy-free version, substitute the dairy ingredients with coconut milk, almond milk, or other plant-based options. You can also make a spicier version by adding cinnamon or a touch of chili powder for an unexpected kick.

The Health Benefits of Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

Although ice cream is generally considered an indulgence, there are some benefits to the ingredients in this cherry vanilla version. Fresh cherries are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. The dairy in the ice cream provides a good source of calcium and protein, especially if you choose a whole milk base.

Enjoying this homemade cherry vanilla ice cream can be a delicious way to treat yourself while still incorporating some nutritious elements. It’s a sweet and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Making homemade ice cream is an easy and fun way to treat yourself and your loved ones. This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream recipe offers a delightful balance of creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet cherry swirls, and the satisfying crunch of chocolate chunks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for those warm summer days. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a dessert that’s bound to impress. So, grab your ice cream maker and start churning this sweet and creamy treat today!

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