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!
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Prep Time15 minutesmins
Total Time6 hourshrs15 minutesmins
Servings: 5cups
Equipment
1 electric mixer or whip
Ingredients
2cupsheavy whipping creamchilled
14ouncessweetened condensed milk1 can
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
3teaspoonsinstant coffee
1/2teaspoon salt
Instructions
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.
2 cups(473.2ml) heavy whipping cream
Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant coffee granules (or espresso powder), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until the coffee granules are dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
14 ounces(396.9g) sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 3 teaspoons instant coffee, 1/2 teaspoon(0.5teaspoon) salt
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!
Notes
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.