If you’re craving a sweet, creamy dessert that feels like summer in every bite, this easy No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and a luscious texture, this homemade treat requires no special equipment and only a handful of simple ingredients. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, offering a refreshing, indulgent delight that’s perfect for any sunny day or casual get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: No ice cream maker needed, which means you can whip up this dessert using just a bowl and a freezer.
- Fresh, Natural Flavor: The use of real strawberries gives the ice cream a vibrant and authentic fruity taste that store-bought versions can’t match.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth, rich consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Customizable: Easy to modify with additional mix-ins or flavor twists to suit personal preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, summer barbecue, or a quick snack, this recipe fits the bill.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream recipe relies on a few simple, widely-available ingredients that create a luscious balance of sweetness, creaminess, and fresh fruit taste. Each component plays an important role in making the ice cream both fluffy and flavorful.
- Fresh Strawberries: These bring natural sweetness and a beautiful pink color, so pick ripe, juicy berries for the best results.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Acts as the sweetener and thickener while lending richness without needing added sugar.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it forms the creamy base with a light texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, rounded flavor that enhances the strawberry notes.
- Lemon Juice: A tiny splash brightens the strawberry flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Variations for No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
One of the best things about this No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream is how easy it is to tailor it to your taste buds or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it truly your own with these simple ideas.
- Berry Mix: Swap or add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to create a mixed berry treat with extra complexity.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks for a surprising texture contrast and flavor boost.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or mint leaves during the strawberry puree stage for a refreshing herbal note.
- Swirls and Ribbons: Mix in strawberry jam or a drizzle of honey after folding for beautiful, eye-catching ribbons of sweetness.
How to Make No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Rinse and hull fresh strawberries, then blend or mash them until smooth but still slightly textured. Add a small squeeze of lemon juice to enhance their natural bright flavor.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy, airy texture we want in the final ice cream.
Step 3: Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
In a separate bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. This mixture provides the sweet base that complements the strawberries and cream perfectly.
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Gently fold the strawberry puree into the condensed milk mixture. Then carefully fold this into the whipped cream, making sure to keep as much air in the mix as possible for fluffiness.
Step 5: Freeze
Transfer the mixture to a lidded container and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm but scoopable. No churning required—just pure patience and anticipation!
Pro Tips for Making No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
- Use Cold Equipment: Chill your mixing bowls and beaters before whipping cream to help it whip faster and hold its shape.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding, use gentle motions to keep the airy texture, or your ice cream could turn dense.
- Pick Ripe Strawberries: Sweet, juicy berries make all the difference and eliminate the need for extra sugar.
- Freeze Properly: Cover the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals forming on the surface.
- Serve Slightly Thawed: Let the ice cream sit for 5-10 minutes before scooping so it’s soft and creamy, not rock hard.
How to Serve No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream
Garnishes
Top your scoops with fresh sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds, or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors and add a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
This no-churn treat pairs wonderfully with shortcakes or warm biscuits for a classic strawberry shortcake experience, or alongside a slice of pound cake or angel food cake for an elegant dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the ice cream in hollowed-out strawberries or alongside fresh fruit skewers. You could also layer it in a parfait glass with granola and honey for a show-stopping presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its freshness and creamy texture. Proper sealing prevents freezer burn.
Freezing
The ice cream freezes solid within 6 hours, but for best texture, avoid freezing longer than 2 weeks. Beyond that, the texture can degrade, though flavor usually remains intact.
Reheating
No reheating needed, but allowing the ice cream to thaw briefly at room temperature makes scooping and serving much easier and lets its full flavor shine through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used if fresh aren’t available; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before blending to prevent a watery ice cream.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
The base recipe uses dairy products, but you can make a vegan version by substituting coconut cream and a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative.
How long does the ice cream last in the freezer?
For the best taste and texture, consume within 1 to 2 weeks of making, though it remains safe to eat longer if kept properly stored.
Can I add sugar to the recipe?
The sweetened condensed milk provides enough sweetness, but if you prefer a sweeter treat, adding a tablespoon of sugar when whipping the cream is possible.
What if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
Let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften it just enough while keeping its creamy structure intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade ice cream, and this No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream recipe makes it delightfully simple to enjoy a fresh, creamy dessert anytime you wish. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite additions, this recipe promises to be a hit with family and friends. So grab those strawberries, start mixing, and get ready to treat yourself to a scoop of pure happiness!