Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Ice cream is a timeless treat, beloved by people of all ages.
Whether you’re enjoying a cone on a hot summer day or indulging in a scoop as a late-night snack, there’s something incredibly satisfying about this frozen dessert.
But if you’re looking to elevate your homemade ice cream game, then a cream cheese ice cream recipe is just what you need.
The addition of cream cheese to this ice cream creates a smooth and velvety texture with a subtle tang, making it a delightful twist on classic ice cream flavors.
This recipe is the perfect balance of rich and refreshing, providing a creamy base that pairs well with any mix-ins or toppings you may want to add.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned dessert maker, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a delicious homemade ice cream that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Ice Cream Recipe
The Creamy Texture
The magic of this cream cheese ice cream lies in its texture.
Unlike traditional ice creams that rely solely on cream and milk, the addition of cream cheese transforms this treat into something truly special.
The cream cheese not only adds richness but also imparts a smooth, velvety feel that’s irresistible.
With every scoop, you get the perfect balance between creamy and tangy, making each bite a refreshing yet indulgent experience.
This texture is unlike any other homemade ice cream, and it’s all thanks to the cream cheese, which creates an airy yet dense consistency that will melt in your mouth.
Versatile Flavor Base
One of the best aspects of cream cheese ice cream is its versatility.
The basic cream cheese base provides a wonderfully neutral canvas that can be dressed up with a variety of flavors.
Whether you want to swirl in some fresh fruit, add chocolate chunks, or experiment with extracts like almond or hazelnut, the options are endless.
You can even mix in crushed cookies or candy to create your dream ice cream flavor.
Cream cheese ice cream is as much about the flavor combinations as it is about the texture.
It’s perfect for experimenting with different ingredients, so feel free to get creative and customize it based on your taste preferences.
Perfect for Hot Days or Special Occasions
Imagine enjoying a scoop of rich, creamy ice cream on a hot day, or serving it as the grand finale to a dinner party.
This cream cheese ice cream is not just an everyday dessert — it’s an indulgence that feels like a treat for any occasion.
Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday celebration, or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to be the star of the show.
Moreover, this ice cream can be made ahead of time and stored in your freezer, so it’s an ideal dessert to prepare when you have guests over or when you just want to treat yourself without any last-minute preparation.
Health Benefits of Cream Cheese Ice Cream
While cream cheese ice cream is certainly a treat to indulge in, it does offer a few health benefits due to its key ingredients:
- Rich Source of Calcium: Thanks to the milk and cream, this ice cream provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Calcium also plays a role in muscle function and nerve signaling. - High in Healthy Fats: The heavy cream and cream cheese used in this recipe contain healthy fats that are beneficial for maintaining healthy brain function and hormone regulation.
These fats can also help improve the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K. - Protein Content: While not a primary protein source, the cream cheese and heavy cream provide a small amount of protein that contributes to muscle repair and immune function.
- Mood-Boosting: Dairy products like cream cheese are known to contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep patterns.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cream Cheese Ice Cream
Creating the perfect cream cheese ice cream requires just a few simple ingredients, but each one plays an important role in ensuring the final result is rich, smooth, and full of flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Cream Cheese
The key ingredient in this recipe is, of course, the cream cheese.
Choose full-fat cream cheese for the best results — it provides a rich and creamy texture while also contributing a subtle tangy flavor.
This is what gives the ice cream its signature taste and sets it apart from more traditional ice cream recipes.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream, or whipping cream, is essential for giving the ice cream its richness and smooth texture.
It helps create that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this homemade ice cream feel so indulgent.
Make sure to use full-fat heavy cream for the best outcome.
Milk
Along with the heavy cream, whole milk adds to the ice cream’s creamy base while helping to achieve the perfect consistency.
A balance between the milk and cream is crucial to keep the texture smooth, without being overly dense.
Sugar
Sugar provides the sweetness needed to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
You can use granulated sugar or adjust to your taste preference depending on how sweet you like your ice cream.
Vanilla Extract
A splash of pure vanilla extract brings a classic, aromatic flavor that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
It adds depth to the overall taste of the ice cream and elevates the other ingredients.
Optional Mix-ins
One of the best things about this ice cream recipe is how versatile it is.
You can add your favorite mix-ins, such as fresh berries, chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even a swirl of caramel or fudge.
These are optional, but they allow you to get creative and customize the ice cream to suit your taste.
How to Make Cream Cheese Ice Cream from Scratch
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to make the magic happen!
The process is simple, and with a few easy steps, you’ll have a rich, creamy ice cream ready for the freezer.
Here’s how to make cream cheese ice cream from scratch:
Step 1: Preparing the Cream Cheese Base
Start by softening the cream cheese.
If your cream cheese is cold from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it for a few seconds to soften it.
This will make it easier to blend and avoid any lumps in your ice cream mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
This step ensures that the cream cheese base will be perfectly creamy and not overly lumpy.
Step 2: Adding the Dairy
Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, it’s time to add the heavy cream and milk.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while stirring to incorporate.
This creates the smooth and creamy ice cream base.
Continue mixing until everything is fully blended together.
You want the mixture to be smooth and homogenous, with no streaks of cream cheese or milk remaining.
Step 3: Churning the Ice Cream
Now that your ice cream base is ready, it’s time to churn!
If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typically, it takes about 20-25 minutes of churning for the ice cream to thicken up to the perfect consistency.
If you’re adding any mix-ins (like chocolate chips or crushed cookies), you can toss them in towards the end of the churning process.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can still make this recipe.
Simply transfer the mixture into an airtight container, and place it in the freezer.
Every 30 minutes, take it out and give it a stir with a fork to break up any ice crystals.
Repeat this process for about 2-3 hours until the ice cream is thick and creamy.
Step 4: Freezing the Ice Cream
Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it into an airtight container.
Smooth the top with a spatula, and cover the container with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
This step allows the ice cream to set fully and develop its rich, creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Cream Cheese Ice Cream
Making the perfect cream cheese ice cream is all about attention to detail.
Here are some essential tips to ensure that your homemade ice cream turns out rich, creamy, and utterly delicious.
1. Use Full-Fat Dairy for Creaminess
For the best texture, always opt for full-fat cream cheese, heavy cream, and whole milk.
These ingredients contribute to a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel and prevent the ice cream from becoming too icy or dense.
The fat content helps the ice cream remain smooth and scoopable, even after freezing.
2. Make Sure Your Cream Cheese is Softened
Before mixing the cream cheese with the other ingredients, be sure it is softened to room temperature.
This ensures it blends smoothly with the sugar and vanilla extract, avoiding any lumps in your ice cream base.
If you forget to soften it beforehand, you can microwave it for a few seconds to speed up the process.
3. Flavor Variations to Experiment With
While the basic cream cheese ice cream recipe is already a winner, it’s easy to experiment with different flavors.
Here are a few ideas to elevate your ice cream:
- Citrus Twist: Add lemon or lime zest to the base for a refreshing, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate to create a rich chocolate version of this ice cream.
- Nutty Goodness: Toasted nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, can be swirled in for an extra crunch and depth of flavor.
Feel free to get creative and tailor the flavor to your preferences.
4. No Ice Cream Maker? No Problem!
If you don’t own an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe with a simple freezer method.
Once the mixture is prepared, pour it into an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
To achieve the perfect creamy texture, stir the mixture every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to prevent ice crystals from forming.
This method will still result in a smooth, homemade ice cream.
5. Let the Ice Cream Softened Before Serving
Homemade ice cream can be a bit firmer than store-bought versions due to the lack of preservatives and stabilizers.
If you find that the ice cream is too hard straight out of the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving.
This makes it easier to scoop and enhances the creamy texture.
How to Serve and Enjoy Cream Cheese Ice Cream
Now that your cream cheese ice cream is ready, let’s talk about how to serve and enjoy this creamy delight!
Creative Serving Ideas
There are countless ways to enjoy your homemade cream cheese ice cream. Here are some fun and delicious serving suggestions:
- In a Cone: Classic and simple! Serve the ice cream in a waffle cone or sugar cone for a nostalgic treat.
You can also drizzle some chocolate sauce or sprinkle nuts on top for added texture and flavor. - Ice Cream Sundae: Turn your ice cream into a sundae by topping it with whipped cream, a cherry, chocolate syrup, or any of your favorite toppings.
A drizzle of caramel or fudge sauce works wonderfully with the tangy cream cheese base. - Over Fruit or Pie: If you’re looking for a lighter dessert, serve your cream cheese ice cream over fresh berries or a slice of pie.
It’s especially wonderful with fruit pies like cherry, peach, or apple.
Pairing With Other Desserts
Cream cheese ice cream pairs beautifully with a wide range of other desserts. Consider serving it alongside:
- Cake: A slice of rich chocolate cake or a light sponge cake complements the creamy, tangy ice cream.
- Brownies: The richness of brownies with a scoop of ice cream on top is a decadent combination.
- Crisps and Crumbles: Top a warm apple or peach crisp with a scoop of cream cheese ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.
Storage Tips
Homemade ice cream doesn’t contain the preservatives found in store-bought versions, so proper storage is key to keeping it fresh.
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer, and make sure to press plastic wrap or parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the lid.
This will prevent ice crystals from forming and help preserve the creamy texture.
For the best results, homemade ice cream should be consumed within 1-2 weeks, but if stored properly, it can last up to a month.
Recipe Variation
- Citrus Twist Cream Cheese Ice Cream: Add lemon or lime zest to the cream cheese base for a refreshing, tangy flavor.
You can also add a small amount of citrus juice for an extra burst of brightness. - Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ¼ cup of cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate to the base to create a rich, chocolatey version of this ice cream.
This pairs beautifully with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or chocolate chips. - Nutty Goodness: Add toasted nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts to the mixture for a crunchy contrast and a deeper flavor profile.
You can mix them in during the last few minutes of churning or swirl them into the finished ice cream for texture. - Berry Swirl: Puree some fresh berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) and swirl them into the ice cream base before freezing.
The fruit adds both color and flavor, enhancing the cream cheese tang with fruity sweetness. - Caramel Pecan: Mix in a swirl of caramel sauce and roasted pecans for a dessert that balances creamy, sweet, and nutty elements.
Storage Instructions
Airtight Container: After churning the ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent air from getting in and forming ice crystals.
Plastic Wrap: To preserve the creamy texture and prevent freezer burn, press a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the lid of the container.
Freezing Time: Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best texture and flavor.
The ice cream can be kept in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.
Softening Before Serving: Homemade ice cream can be firmer than store-bought varieties.
Let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Cream Cheese Ice Cream
Making your own ice cream at home is a fun and rewarding experience, and this cream cheese ice cream recipe takes it to the next level.
With its rich, creamy texture and the subtle tang of cream cheese, this ice cream is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Whether you enjoy it on its own or mix in some fun flavors and toppings, the possibilities are endless.
Homemade ice cream is a treat that brings joy to any occasion, and it’s even better when you can customize it to your liking.
The best part? You can make it ahead of time, store it in your freezer, and always have a sweet treat ready when you need it.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get your ice cream maker ready, and create this luscious dessert that’s bound to impress family and friends alike.
Don’t forget to share your ice cream creations with us — we’d love to see how you customize your batch!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Ice Cream
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, it will affect the texture and creaminess of the ice cream.
Full-fat cream cheese creates the richest and smoothest base, so for the best result, it’s recommended to use regular, full-fat cream cheese.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might want to experiment with other lower-fat ingredients, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
2. How do I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
No ice cream maker? No problem! Simply pour the prepared ice cream base into an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
Stir the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals.
This method gives you that creamy texture without the need for any special equipment.
It might take a little extra time, but the result will still be delicious!
3. Can I add fruit to the ice cream?
Absolutely! Adding fruit is a great way to add extra flavor to your cream cheese ice cream.
Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or peaches all pair beautifully with the creamy base.
You can either fold in the fruit after churning or layer it in during the freezing process.
If using fruit with a lot of moisture, like watermelon or citrus, make sure to drain any excess juice before adding it to the mixture to avoid making the ice cream too runny.
4. How long does homemade cream cheese ice cream last in the freezer?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks for the freshest taste and texture.
However, if stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to a month in the freezer.
Just be sure to keep it tightly sealed to prevent ice crystals from forming.
5. Can I make this ice cream dairy-free?
While this recipe is based on dairy ingredients, you can try substituting the dairy products with dairy-free alternatives.
Look for dairy-free cream cheese, coconut milk, or almond milk as replacements.
Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions or those looking for a vegan version.
Cream Cheese Ice Cream
Equipment
- Ice cream maker (optional, 1)
- Hand Mixer or Whisk – 1
- Large mixing bowl (1)
- Airtight Container for Freezing (1)
- Spatula (1)
Ingredients
- 8 oz 226g – Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup 240ml – Heavy Cream
- 1 cup 240ml – Whole Milk
- 3/4 cup 150g – Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon – Vanilla Extract
- Optional Mix-ins: chocolate chips, crushed cookies, fresh fruit, etc.
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
- Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until smooth and well-blended.
Add the Dairy:
- Slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk to the cream cheese mixture, stirring continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- If using an ice cream maker: Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes).
- If not using an ice cream maker: Pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to achieve a smooth consistency.
Freeze:
- Once the ice cream has reached a thick, creamy texture, transfer it to an airtight container and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover tightly and freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Serve:
- Allow the ice cream to soften for 5-10 minutes before scooping and serving.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit to customize the flavor. Add them during the last few minutes of churning or after freezing for a swirl effect.
- No Ice Cream Maker? No worries! Just freeze the mixture in an airtight container and stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to ensure the creamy texture.
- Storage: Homemade ice cream is best within 1-2 weeks but can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Make it Lighter: For a lower-calorie version, you can experiment with reduced-fat cream cheese and lighter dairy options like almond milk or coconut cream, though this may affect the texture and richness.
