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If you’re a fan of bold, fruity desserts with a creamy twist, then this Black Cherry Ice Cream recipe will be your new go-to summer treat.
Imagine velvety smooth ice cream loaded with the rich, deep flavor of fresh black cherries—sweet, slightly tart, and utterly irresistible.
Whether you’re craving something refreshing on a warm day or looking to impress guests with a homemade dessert, this black cherry ice cream hits all the right notes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even if you don’t have an ice cream maker!
Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade recipe ensures that every scoop is packed with natural cherry flavor and the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that’s not only delicious but feels like a true indulgence.
Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile—whether you make it for a family barbecue, a special occasion, or just because you love ice cream, you’ll find it to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Black Cherry Ice Cream
There’s something about black cherry ice cream that makes it stand out from the crowd of typical ice cream flavors. First off, the cherries themselves are a showstopper.
Black cherries are naturally sweet with just the right amount of tartness, which makes them the ideal fruit for an ice cream that isn’t overly sugary but still perfectly satisfying.
The vibrant, jewel-like color adds a beautiful visual appeal to each scoop, making it even more irresistible.
One of the things that makes this black cherry ice cream so amazing is the rich, creamy texture.
Thanks to a simple combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar, the ice cream base is luxuriously smooth.
The cherries are incorporated in two ways: you’ll get a burst of fruity goodness from chunks of macerated cherries, while the smooth cherry purée swirls throughout the ice cream, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.
The best part? This recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the sweetness to suit your taste, or even mix in other ingredients like chocolate chips or crushed almonds for extra texture and depth.
Plus, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, this recipe is still totally doable. With just a bit of patience, you can have this creamy black cherry ice cream ready to enjoy without needing any fancy equipment.
What’s more, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving up something special for a family gathering.
It’s a perfect blend of indulgent and refreshing, making it the ideal dessert for a warm summer evening. Once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought ice cream the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the recipe, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to create your own batch of delicious homemade Black Cherry Ice Cream.
Don’t worry—these ingredients are simple to find and will ensure that your ice cream turns out rich, smooth, and bursting with cherry flavor.
- Fresh or Frozen Black Cherries: You’ll need about 2 cups of black cherries. Fresh cherries are ideal, but frozen cherries can work perfectly too. If you’re using fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them before using.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret to that luscious, creamy texture. You’ll need 1 cup of heavy cream to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Whole Milk: A cup of whole milk adds a smooth richness to the base of your ice cream, balancing the creaminess of the heavy cream.
- Granulated Sugar: You’ll need ¾ cup of sugar to sweeten the ice cream and bring out the natural sweetness of the cherries.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and gives your ice cream a deep, aromatic sweetness.
- Salt: A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the natural flavors of the cherries and cream.
- Optional Add-ins: If you want to take this recipe up a notch, you can add a splash of lemon juice for a subtle tang, or a dash of almond extract for a nutty undertone. Both options are optional, but they can add interesting layers to the flavor.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to create a perfect batch of homemade black cherry ice cream!
How to Make Black Cherry Ice Cream: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start making your black cherry ice cream. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, and it doesn’t require any complicated steps or special equipment.
Follow these easy-to-follow instructions to create a creamy, fruity delight that will have everyone asking for more.
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Start by preparing your black cherries. If you’re using fresh cherries, wash them thoroughly and remove the pits. Once they’re pitted, chop them into small pieces to release more juice and make them easier to incorporate into the ice cream.
If you prefer, you can leave some cherries whole for texture.
Once chopped, place the cherries in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir to coat the cherries and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. T
his process, called macerating, will draw out the natural juices and help soften the fruit, making it easier to blend into your ice cream base.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
While your cherries are macerating, it’s time to make the creamy base for your ice cream. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, ¾ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Whisk everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
If you prefer a smoother base, you can also heat the mixture gently in a saucepan until it’s warm (but not boiling), then allow it to cool before proceeding. This step helps dissolve the sugar more easily, but it’s completely optional.
Once the base is smooth and the sugar is dissolved, place it in the fridge to chill for at least an hour. Chilling the mixture helps ensure a smoother texture when it freezes.
Step 3: Blend the Cherries into the Base
Now that your cherries have macerated and your ice cream base is chilled, it’s time to combine the two. Using a blender or food processor, blend half of the macerated cherries into a smooth purée.
You can leave the other half as is to maintain some chunky texture in your ice cream.
Pour the purée into the chilled ice cream base and stir gently to incorporate. If you prefer a completely smooth ice cream, feel free to blend everything together.
If you want a bit of cherry texture in your ice cream, add the remaining whole or chopped cherries to the mixture, stirring them in lightly.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
If you have an ice cream maker, now’s the time to use it! Pour the cherry-cream mixture into your ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning. Usually, this takes about 20-25 minutes, but it varies depending on your machine.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! Simply pour the mixture into an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
After about 45 minutes, take it out and stir it with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours, until it reaches the perfect ice cream consistency.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Once your ice cream is churned or stirred to a creamy consistency, transfer it into an airtight container. Use a spatula to smooth the top, and then cover it tightly.
Place the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.
If you’ve made your ice cream without a machine, be sure to let it freeze completely for the best texture before serving.
Tips for the Best Black Cherry Ice Cream
To ensure that your Black Cherry Ice Cream turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips that will elevate your homemade creation:
1. Use Fresh, Ripe Black Cherries
The key to a truly flavorful black cherry ice cream lies in the quality of the cherries. Fresh, ripe black cherries will give you the most intense and natural flavor.
When in season, use fresh cherries for their rich taste and vibrant color. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries are a great alternative, but try to opt for high-quality frozen fruit without added sugar or preservatives.
2. Don’t Skip the Macerating Step
Macerating your cherries by tossing them with sugar before mixing them into the ice cream base is crucial for drawing out their natural juices and flavors.
This process helps create a more concentrated cherry flavor and ensures that your ice cream will be full of juicy cherry goodness.
3. Chill the Ice Cream Base
For a smoother, creamier texture, be sure to chill your ice cream base for at least an hour before churning. This helps the mixture freeze more evenly, reducing the likelihood of ice crystals forming and ensuring your ice cream has that rich, velvety texture.
4. Add Mix-ins for Extra Flavor and Texture
While the basic black cherry ice cream is delicious on its own, you can always take it up a notch by adding a few fun mix-ins.
Consider adding chocolate chips, crushed almonds, or a swirl of fudge for some extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to add these toward the end of churning to prevent them from getting too blended into the base.
5. Store Properly for Best Texture
To maintain the best texture, store your ice cream in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer. For ultimate smoothness, you can place a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap directly on top of the ice cream before sealing the container, which helps prevent ice crystals from forming during storage.
6. Let It Sit Before Serving
When you’re ready to serve your black cherry ice cream, take it out of the freezer about 5–10 minutes before scooping. This allows it to soften just enough to scoop smoothly, without compromising its texture.
How to Serve and Enjoy Your Black Cherry Ice Cream
Now that your black cherry ice cream is perfectly churned and frozen, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Here are some fun and delicious ways to serve and savor your homemade creation.
Serve in a Bowl or Cone
The most classic way to enjoy your black cherry ice cream is simply in a bowl or cone. For a fun presentation, add a few whole or chopped cherries on top for garnish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a little chocolate sauce or caramel over the top for a delightful contrast with the cherry’s tangy sweetness.
Make a Black Cherry Sundae
Take your ice cream to the next level by turning it into a sundae. Start with a scoop of black cherry ice cream, then layer it with toppings like whipped cream, crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or even a maraschino cherry. For an added touch, drizzle warm chocolate or cherry sauce for a decadent treat.
Pair with Fresh Fruit or Baked Goods
Black cherry ice cream pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, which complement its sweetness with a hint of tartness.
You can also serve it alongside warm, freshly baked goods such as chocolate chip cookies or brownies. The contrast between the cold, creamy ice cream and warm baked goods is pure dessert bliss.
Serve as a Frozen Dessert Cake
If you’re hosting a special occasion, you can turn your black cherry ice cream into a stunning frozen dessert cake.
Simply layer the ice cream between layers of cake, like a sponge or shortbread, and freeze until firm. When serving, slice it like a cake for an impressive dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
This black cherry ice cream is ideal for barbecues, picnics, or any outdoor summer gathering. Scoop it into individual bowls or cones, or even serve it in a big bowl for guests to help themselves.
To make it extra festive, top with a few sprigs of mint or an extra sprinkle of crushed nuts for a decorative touch.
Enjoy Straight from the Container
Of course, sometimes the best way to enjoy homemade ice cream is just to scoop it directly from the container!
Whether you’re on your porch enjoying a warm evening or curled up with a good movie, black cherry ice cream is the perfect treat to unwind with.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade Black Cherry Ice Cream—it’s a true celebration of summer’s best fruit, paired with a creamy base that will make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re an ice cream enthusiast or simply looking for a way to enjoy cherries in a fun, refreshing way, this recipe is sure to impress.
With its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, along with a smooth, velvety texture, you’ll find yourself reaching for scoop after scoop.
Making ice cream at home gives you the opportunity to control the ingredients and create something truly special, and once you’ve tasted this black cherry ice cream, you’ll be hooked.
So, gather your ingredients, take your time to enjoy the process, and indulge in the delicious results. After all, there’s nothing more satisfying than enjoying a bowl of homemade ice cream with the freshest, juiciest cherries around.
We hope this recipe becomes your go-to summer treat. Don’t forget to share your creation and let us know how you made it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply follow the steps for preparing and chilling the base. After mixing the cherry purée into the base, pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze.
Every 30 minutes, take it out and stir with a fork to break up ice crystals. Do this for about 2-3 hours until the ice cream is firm and creamy.
2. How do I store homemade black cherry ice cream?
To keep your homemade black cherry ice cream fresh and maintain its creamy texture, store it in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer.
For best results, press a layer of plastic wrap or wax paper directly on top of the ice cream before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
3. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly well for this recipe, especially if fresh cherries are out of season. Just make sure to thaw them before using and drain off any excess liquid that might form.
Frozen cherries will still deliver that delicious tart-sweet flavor and will blend nicely into the ice cream.
4. How long does it take for the ice cream to freeze completely?
Once your ice cream is churned or stirred to the right consistency, you’ll need to let it freeze for at least 4 hours. If you’re making it without a machine, it may take 5-6 hours, with intermittent stirring every 30 minutes to achieve the right texture.
5. Can I add other fruits or mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your black cherry ice cream by adding other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even a swirl of strawberry jam.
You can also add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a ribbon of fudge to create your own unique twist on this classic flavor.
Black Cherry Ice Cream
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (optional): 1 unit
- Mixing Bowl – 1 large
- Blender/Food Processor – 1 unit
- Spatula: 1 unit
- Airtight Container (for freezing, 1 unit)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen black cherries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional:
- 2 tsp lemon juice or almond extract for added flavor
Instructions
Prepare the cherries:
- If using fresh cherries, wash and pit them before chopping into small pieces. If using frozen cherries, thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Place the cherries in a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of sugar, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate, which helps release the juices.
Make the ice cream base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, ¾ cup sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Blend the cherries:
- Blend half of the macerated cherries in a food processor or blender until smooth. Add the cherry purée to the ice cream base and stir to combine. Add the remaining chopped cherries for texture, or blend them in for a smooth consistency.
Churn the ice cream:
- If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes). If you don’t have an ice cream maker, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it reaches the desired consistency.
Freeze:
- Once the ice cream is churned or stirred to a creamy consistency, transfer it to an airtight container, smooth the top with a spatula, and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Serve and enjoy:
- Once frozen, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping. Serve in bowls or cones and enjoy!
Notes
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, feel free to adjust the sugar to taste.
- Cherries: Using fresh cherries in season will give you the best flavor, but frozen cherries can work just as well, especially if fresh ones are unavailable.
- Mix-ins: You can add other mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, crushed almonds, or a swirl of fudge for added texture and flavor.
- No ice cream maker: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! Follow the no-churn method, and stir every 30 minutes as the ice cream freezes to ensure a smooth texture.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Allow it to soften a bit before serving if it becomes too hard.
