This homemade raw milk ice cream is creamy and rich, made from just a few simple ingredients. It’s a delightful treat that’s super fun to make!
Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll want to skip the store-bought stuff forever! I love adding my favorite fruits for an extra yummy twist. 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Raw Whole Milk: This is the star of the show! It gives ice cream its creamy texture. If you can’t find raw milk, try using whole pasteurized milk for a similar result, but it may not have the same depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness to the ice cream. If you’re looking for a lower fat option, you can use half-and-half, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
Granulated Sugar: Sugar sweetens your ice cream. For a healthier alternative, you might use agave syrup or honey, but note they can change the sweetness level. Start with less and adjust as needed!
Pure Vanilla Extract: Vanilla enhances the flavor beautifully. If you’re out, a bit of almond extract can also work, giving a different but tasty twist.
Pinch of Salt: Salt balances the sweetness. Always remember that a little goes a long way, so just a pinch will do!
How Do I Churn Ice Cream to the Perfect Texture?
Churning your ice cream is a key step that transforms your mixture into creamy goodness. Use an ice cream maker for the best results. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Keep the ice cream machine bowl in the freezer overnight. A well-chilled bowl helps the ice cream freeze faster.
- Churn until you reach a soft-serve consistency, usually 20-25 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s what gives it that famous creamy texture!
- If the ice cream seems too soft after churning, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for 2 hours to firm up.
That’s all there is to it! Enjoy making your own delicious ice cream that’s perfect for warm days!
Easy Homemade Raw Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups raw whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade raw milk ice cream takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, you’ll need to freeze it for at least 2 hours to get that perfect firm texture. So, in total, expect to set aside about 2 hours and 35 minutes before you can enjoy your treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Combine the raw whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved. It’s important to make sure there are no granules left, as this ensures a smooth ice cream texture.
2. Prepare to Churn:
Pour your creamy mixture into the ice cream maker. Each machine is a bit different, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operation. This is the fun part where the magic happens!
3. Churn It Up:
Turn on your ice cream maker and let it churn! You should aim for a soft-serve consistency, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens up and doubles in volume. You can pause and check it to see if it has the right texture.
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
Once the ice cream has reached the right consistency, transfer it to an airtight container. This is super important to avoid ice crystals forming. Place the container in the freezer and let it firm up for at least 2 hours. This will give you that scoopable texture we all love!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After it’s firmed up, scoop the lovely ice cream into bowls. You can enjoy it just as it is or add your favorite toppings like fresh fruits, chocolate syrup, or nuts. It’s the perfect treat to share with family or indulge in all by yourself!
Enjoy your creamy, delicious homemade raw milk ice cream, a simple and delightful dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Raw Milk Ice Cream
Can I Use Store-Bought Milk Instead of Raw Milk?
Yes, you can! If raw milk isn’t available, whole pasteurized milk is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that raw milk has a richer flavor, so the texture and taste of the ice cream may vary slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Homemade ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften it up!
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate Chips or Fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fresh fruits during the last few minutes of churning. This is a great way to customize your ice cream flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Ice Cream?
This ice cream is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with toppings like fresh berries, syrup, or sprinkles. For a fun twist, sandwich it between two cookies for an ice cream sandwich!
