Apple pie ice cream brings together the best of both worlds—creamy ice cream and the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie. This homemade recipe combines soft, caramelized apples with crispy snickerdoodle cookies, creating a decadent treat that tastes just like a slice of apple pie a la mode. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in your ice cream machine, so you can indulge in this fall-inspired dessert anytime.
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Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Ice Cream
Apple Pie Ice Cream isn’t just any ordinary ice cream—it’s an experience. The balance of textures from the cinnamon-infused apples and the chewy, crunchy snickerdoodle cookies makes every bite memorable. The apple base adds a natural sweetness, while the creamy ice cream provides a smooth, comforting consistency. Using Honeycrisp apples gives it a perfect, sweet crunch, while the homemade snickerdoodles mimic the texture and flavor of a pie crust.
Whether you’re looking for a special treat for a family gathering or a new twist on classic fall flavors, this recipe will become a favorite. Plus, it’s naturally nut-free and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients in Apple Pie Ice Cream
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible apple pie ice cream:
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the caramelized apples.
• Brown Sugar: Deepens the flavor of the apples with a warm, caramelized sweetness.
• Honeycrisp Apples: Chosen for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Ground Cinnamon: Provides the warm, spicy essence that ties the whole recipe together.
• Heavy Cream: The base of this creamy ice cream, giving it a rich, luxurious texture.
• Whole Milk: Balances out the cream and adds the perfect consistency to the ice cream base.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the base, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the apples.
• Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, elevating the overall flavor.
• Snickerdoodles: These chewy cookies provide a delightful crunch and mimic the texture of a pie crust in the ice cream.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free snickerdoodles, or even swap them for other crunchy cookies like shortbread or oatmeal cookies. You can also experiment with different apple varieties, such as Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Gala apples for a sweeter taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: Start by melting butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced apples and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir to coat the apples and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Let the apple mixture cool in the refrigerator.
- Make the Ice Cream Base: In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, and the remaining cinnamon. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 25 minutes, and the consistency should resemble soft-serve ice cream.
- Add the Snickerdoodles: In the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped snickerdoodle cookies to the ice cream. Continue churning until the cookies are evenly distributed.
- Layer and Freeze: Spoon half of the ice cream into a shallow container, then layer half of the chilled apple mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and apple mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the apples into the ice cream. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
- Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Pie Ice Cream
• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality cream, milk, and fresh apples. The sweetness of the Honeycrisp apples is key to this recipe’s success.
• Chill Everything: Ensure that both the ice cream base and the ice cream maker bowl are very cold. This helps the mixture thicken and churn properly.
• Don’t Overcrowd with Add-ins: Stick to just one or two add-ins, like snickerdoodles, and make sure they are finely chopped to avoid large chunks in each bite.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Apple Pie Ice Cream is already rich and flavorful, but you can make it even more special with a few pairing ideas:
• Top it with Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the ice cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Add Extra Flavor: For a unique twist, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla or cinnamon extract for deeper flavor.
• Bourbon Infusion: For an adult version, add a tablespoon of bourbon or spiced rum to the mixture before churning.
• Apple Compote: A dollop of apple compote on top of each scoop will take this dessert to the next level.
Seasonal and Health Benefits of Apple Pie Ice Cream
This Apple Pie Ice Cream is perfect for the fall season, bringing the comforting warmth of apple pie with a cool twist. The use of Honeycrisp apples provides a rich source of vitamins and fiber, making this dessert a slightly healthier option compared to store-bought alternatives. Plus, you can feel good knowing there are no artificial preservatives in this homemade treat.
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with a scoop of homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream. Whether served as a dessert at your Thanksgiving feast or enjoyed on a quiet evening, this ice cream offers a delightful taste of tradition with a creamy, modern twist.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Ice Cream is the perfect blend of indulgence and nostalgia. Its combination of caramelized apples, creamy ice cream, and snickerdoodle cookie pieces offers a unique twist on a classic dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it after a holiday meal or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening, this homemade ice cream delivers both comfort and delight. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to create this delectable treat any time the craving strikes.
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the warmth of apple pie with the coolness of ice cream, this Apple Pie Ice Cream recipe is a must-try. Plus, with its customizable options for dietary preferences, it’s a versatile treat that everyone can enjoy.
FAQ
1. Can I use other apple varieties in this Apple Pie Ice Cream?
Yes, you can substitute the Honeycrisp apples with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Gala apples for a sweeter, softer texture. Choose apples that hold their shape well when cooked.
2. Can I make Apple Pie Ice Cream without an ice cream machine?
Absolutely! You can make this ice cream without a machine by following the no-churn method. After mixing the base, freeze the mixture in a loaf pan, stirring every 30 minutes for the first two hours to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
3. How do I store Apple Pie Ice Cream?
Store your Apple Pie Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To keep it fresh, press a piece of parchment paper or wax paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream. It will stay fresh for up to one month.
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Apple Pie Ice Cream:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4-6 hours (includes freezing time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churned
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Apple Pie Ice Cream brings together the creamy goodness of homemade ice cream with the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie. With caramelized apples and crunchy snickerdoodle cookies, this dessert is the perfect fall treat. It’s a unique twist on apple pie, with a creamy base and delightful textures, making it a hit for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced into ¼ inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups snickerdoodles, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar. Add diced apples and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 10-15 minutes until apples are tender. Refrigerate until cooled.
- In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, and remaining cinnamon. Whisk until sugar is fully dissolved.
- Churn the ice cream mixture in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 25 minutes). In the last 2 minutes, add the chopped snickerdoodle cookies and continue churning.
- Spoon half of the ice cream into a shallow container. Add half of the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and apples. Use a knife to swirl the apple mixture into the ice cream.
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving for easy scooping.
Notes
- Ensure that both the ice cream base and the ice cream bowl are cold to ensure smooth churning.
- Chill the apple mixture to prevent melting the ice cream during assembly.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free snickerdoodles or other crunchy cookies.
- If the ice cream is too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scoop
- Calories: 735
- Sugar: 61g
- Sodium: 279mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 27g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 79g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 142mg
