Hey there, coffee lover and ice cream fanatics! Can we all agree that homemade ice cream is a little slice of heaven, especially during those sweltering summer days? And if you’re anything like me, coffee holds a special place in your heart. Well, get ready to treat yourself because I’ve got the ultimate recipe for the best homemade coffee ice cream, and get this -it’s a no-churn recipe with just five simple ingredients (and eggs aren’t included!)

Why go to ice cream shops when you can make your own ice cream? Now, I know what you might be thinking—making ice cream at home sounds complicated and requires fancy equipment.

But fear not! This recipe is designed for simplicity and convenience. You won’t need an ice cream maker, and the ingredient list is delightfully short. With just five easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be on your way to homemade coffee ice cream heaven in no time.

Ingredients for the Best coffee ice cream

You’ll only need 5 simple ingredients for this homemade coffee ice cream, found in any of your local grocery stores. Remember, using good-quality ingredients makes a huge difference!

• Heavy cream. The heavy cream helps create that luxurious, creamy ice cream texture. It’s the ice cream base; its high-fat content adds richness and ensures a smooth mouthfeel.
• Sweetened condensed milk. Serves as the sweetener and also plays a crucial role in the creamy texture of the ice cream. Its thick consistency and sweetness provide a smooth and creamy base while reducing the need for additional sugar.
• Instant coffee. Of course, the key flavor component in coffee ice cream is coffee itself. It infuses the ice cream with that unmistakable coffee flavor. You decide how much coffee flavor you want: the strength and type of coffee used can be adjusted according to personal preference for a varied ice cream flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract. A touch of vanilla extract complements the coffee flavor and adds a hint of warmth and depth to the ice cream. It helps to enhance the overall taste profile and round out the flavors. 
• Salt. A pinch of salt might seem like an unconventional addition, but it actually enhances the flavors in the ice cream. Salt helps to balance the sweetness and intensify the coffee flavor, creating a more complex and well-rounded taste experience.

Substitutions and Add-ons for this creamy coffee Ice Cream

You can make the original recipe, and make a few adjustments for next time with any of these ingredients:

• Don’t have instant coffee granules? No worries! Just swap them out with espresso powder for this homemade Coffee Ice Cream recipe. It’ll give your ice cream that extra kick of bold coffee flavor.
• Want to take your homemade coffee ice cream up a notch? Toss 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips into the mixture. Who can resist the heavenly combination of chocolate and coffee?
• Grab a handful of your favorite nuts—almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts—and sprinkle them in. This is a good way to add crunch to your ice cream and will give a nutty flavor.
• Drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over your coffee ice cream right before serving.
• Crumble up some cookies or biscotti and mix them into your coffee ice cream. The combination of smooth creaminess and the crunch of cookies is amazing.
• Ready to spice things up? Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to your ice cream mixture. It’ll bring a whole new dimension of flavor to your coffee ice cream.
• Want to make dairy-free ice creams? replace any dairy products from the original recipe with non-dairy products. Use a plant-based heavy cream instead of regular heavy cream. Swap the sweetened condensed milk with a vegan version.

Why using good quality ingredients can make a huge difference?

Using good quality ingredients can make or break your recipe. Always opt for high-quality ingredients for best results. Here’s why:

1. Flavor: High-quality ingredients tend to have more pronounced and authentic flavors. When it comes to coffee, using good quality instant coffee or espresso powder can enhance the rich and robust coffee flavor in the ice cream. Cheaper or lower-quality coffee may result in a less satisfying and muted taste.
2. Creaminess: The cream used in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a smooth and creamy texture. Opting for high-quality heavy cream or a plant-based alternative with a higher fat content will contribute to a luscious mouthfeel. Lower-quality creams may lack the richness and creaminess desired in ice cream, resulting in a less satisfying texture.
3. Sweetness: The sweetened condensed milk is responsible for providing sweetness and a creamy consistency to the ice cream. Using good quality sweetened condensed milk ensures a balanced sweetness and smooth texture. Cheaper or lower-quality versions may have a more artificial or cloying taste, affecting the overall enjoyment of the ice cream.
4. Overall Experience: When you use good quality ingredients, the overall experience of eating the ice cream is elevated. The flavors are more vibrant, the texture is smoother, and the indulgence is heightened. Investing in higher-quality ingredients can make the difference between an average homemade ice cream and a truly exceptional one that will impress and satisfy.

How to make this No-Churn Ice Cream

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the cream until it reaches soft peaks. Soft peaks are when the cream holds its shape but still flop when beaters are lifted.

Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant coffee granules (or espresso powder), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the coffee granules are dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

At this point, you can do a taste test and see if you want to add more coffee or any optional add-ons. If you are looking for a rich coffee flavor, you can add more coffee. If you want chocolate chip coffee ice cream, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.

For a crunchy factor, add your choice of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts. Get creative and sprinkle in crushed cookies or biscotti for extra texture. Or, for a touch of indulgence, swirl in some caramel or chocolate sauce.

Once everything is well incorporated, transfer the mixture into a lidded container suitable for freezing. Smooth the top with a spatula.

When the ice cream reaches the desired firmness, usually after about 6 hours of freezing, it’s ready to be enjoyed! Freeze for 4 hours for a soft-serve consistency.

Scoop it into bowls or cones, and eat to your hearts content!

Expert tips for the best ice cream

1. Whipping Cream to Soft Peaks: When whipping the cream, aim for soft peaks rather than stiff peaks. Soft peaks refer to a stage where the cream holds its shape but still has a slight droop. This creates a creamier texture in the ice cream, resulting in a smoother and more luscious final product.
2. Balancing the Coffee Flavor: Adjust the amount of coffee to suit your preference. If you prefer a strong coffee flavor, you can increase the amount of coffee used. Similarly, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect coffee flavor.
3. Experimenting with mix-ins: While chocolate chips and nuts are popular additions, don’t be afraid to get creative with your mix-ins. Crushed toffee or caramel candies can add a delightful caramel crunch, while dried fruit like chopped cherries or raisins can provide a sweet and chewy contrast. You can even try incorporating swirls of fruit preserves or fudge sauce for a burst of flavor in every bite. Let your imagination run wild and customize your ice cream to suit your taste preferences.
4. Patience is Key: Homemade ice cream without an ice cream maker may take longer to freeze and set compared to machine-churned ice cream. Be patient and resist the temptation to sample it too early. Allow enough time for the ice cream to reach the desired firmness before serving.
5. Serving suggestions: Your homemade coffee ice cream can be enjoyed on its own, but why not take it to the next level with some irresistible toppings? Sprinkle some cocoa powder or chocolate shavings over the scoops for a visually appealing touch. For a gourmet twist, drizzle a shot of espresso or coffee liqueur over the ice cream. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it all off with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. These little touches can elevate your dessert experience and make it truly memorable.

How much caffeine is there in coffee ice cream?

The caffeine content in coffee ice cream can vary depending on the brand and the specific type of instant coffee you choose.

Now, when it comes to instant coffee, the caffeine levels can be a bit unpredictable. It all depends on the brand and type you go for.

On average, a single teaspoon of instant coffee packs a punch of about 30 to 60 milligrams of caffeine! That’s a tasty little boost right there!

So, if you’re looking for a sweet treat with a side of energy, coffee ice cream is a great choice. 

Just remember, these numbers are just ballpark figures, so your actual caffeine kick might fall somewhere within that range.

Storing and Freezing tips for this homemade Coffee Ice Cream recipe:

To keep your homemade coffee ice cream at its best, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. 

Ensure that the container is well sealed to prevent any air or moisture from affecting the texture. If you have leftovers, you can layer a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to minimize freezer burn. 

Proper storage will help maintain the ice cream’s flavor and prevent it from becoming overly icy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?

Nope, you don’t need an ice cream maker for this recipe! The beauty of no-churn ice cream is that it doesn’t require any special equipment. All you need is a mixer to whip the cream and a freezer-safe container to chill the ice cream mixture.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming in my ice cream?

To prevent ice crystals, make sure your whipped cream is whipped to stiff peaks and gently fold the coffee mixture into the whipped cream without deflating it. The sweetened condensed milk also helps keep the ice cream creamy and smooth by lowering the freezing point. 

Additionally, covering the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container can help reduce ice crystal formation.

Can I add mix-ins to my coffee ice cream?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with mix-ins. Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips, caramel swirls, crushed cookies, or even a splash of coffee liqueur can be delicious additions. Just fold your mix-ins into the ice cream mixture gently before transferring it to the freezer-safe container to freeze.

Here’s a video of this delicious homemade coffee ice cream recipe, check it out!

Take a look at the links below for more homemade ice cream recipes or take a look a this link for more frozen desserts.

Easy Nutella Ice Cream (with Nutella swirls)

Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream Recipe

Sea Salt Ice Cream Recipe 

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe

Brownie Ice Cream Recipe

Peach Ice Cream Recipe without Eggs

If you make this recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating and leave a comment!