Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe – Easy and Creamy Dessert

Cool off this summer with a bowl of homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream. This creamy treat features swirls of cherry filling and chunks of chocolate, making it a perfect indulgence for all occasions. Easy to prepare, this Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that both kids and adults will love.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is the ideal balance of rich, creamy vanilla and fresh cherry sweetness. It’s not just about the flavor; it’s also about the texture. The combination of chocolate chunks and cherry swirls gives every bite something exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—no need for an egg custard or hours of preparation. In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious homemade ice cream that’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual summer nights.

Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

The best part of this Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is that it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cherry Filling:

• Fresh Cherries: Adds a natural sweetness and a burst of color.
• Granulated Sugar: Helps to sweeten the cherries for the filling.
• Cornstarch: Thicken the cherry filling slightly, giving it a perfect swirl texture.

For the Ice Cream Base:

• Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a thick, creamy, and rich texture to the ice cream.
• Whole Milk: Ensures the ice cream remains smooth and creamy.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the ice cream, balancing the tartness of the cherries.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the ice cream with a deep vanilla flavor.
• Sea Salt: A pinch adds balance to the sweetness and helps bring out the flavor.
• Chocolate Candy Bars: Optional but recommended for added crunch and flavor.

Alternative Ingredients:

If you’re looking for a different twist on this recipe, consider these swaps:

• Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
• For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
• Try adding crushed graham crackers for an additional texture or topping.

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

Creating your homemade Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is straightforward, with just a few simple steps:

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
   Start by pitting and halving the fresh cherries. In a saucepan, mix sugar, water, and cornstarch. Add the cherries and stir until they are well-coated. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the filling thickens. Remove it from heat and allow it to cool. Refrigerate the cherry filling until chilled.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base:
   In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the sugar dissolves. Once combined, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker.
3. Churn the Ice Cream:
   Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream maker. Churn the mixture for about 20-30 minutes until it thickens. When the ice cream starts to form, gradually add in the chocolate chunks.
4. Layer the Ice Cream and Cherry Filling:
   Spoon one-third of the ice cream into a container, followed by a layer of the chilled cherry filling. Repeat the layers two more times. Press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming. Cover the container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

To get the creamiest, most flavorful homemade ice cream, here are a few helpful tips:

• Pre-chill the Ice Cream Bowl: If you’re using a freezer bowl ice cream maker, ensure it’s frozen for at least 24 hours before use.
• Let the Ice Cream Sit: Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve.
• Avoid Ice Crystals: Protect your ice cream from freezer burn by covering the surface with wax paper or plastic wrap. You can also place the container in a freezer-safe bag to keep air out.
• Incorporate Solid Ingredients After Churning: Add solid ingredients like chocolate chunks, fruit, or cookies during the last few minutes of churning, not before.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the dessert with a variety of toppings or pairings:

• Pairing Ideas: This ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm brownies, a drizzle of hot fudge, or a few fresh cherries on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Variations: Want a spicier version? Add a dash of cinnamon to the vanilla base. For a more indulgent treat, you can fold in some crushed brownies or even use salted caramel chunks instead of chocolate.

You can also make this recipe dairy-free by using coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate.

Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream for All Seasons

While Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is perfect for summer, it’s also a fantastic dessert for other seasons. During the winter months, you can make it with frozen cherries, ensuring you can enjoy this creamy treat year-round.

Conclusion

This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe is a true indulgence, combining the sweetness of cherries, the richness of vanilla, and the crunch of chocolate chunks. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a creamy and refreshing dessert that will impress everyone. Perfect for warm summer days or whenever you need a sweet treat, this homemade ice cream offers both comfort and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you enjoy it alone or paired with your favorite dessert, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t wait—try it today and enjoy the blissful combination of cherry and vanilla in each scoop!

FAQ About Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream

More Relevant Recipes

• Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
• Old Fashioned Peach Ice Cream

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