Refreshing KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream – Easy & Delicious!

Making homemade ice cream is one of the most satisfying and delicious experiences in the kitchen.

There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a rich, creamy treat that’s tailor-made to your tastes.

While store-bought ice cream may be convenient, it can never match the freshness and custom flavor you get when you make it yourself.

That’s where the KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe comes in.

With the help of your KitchenAid stand mixer and its ice cream maker attachment, creating your own strawberry ice cream is easier than you might think.

Using a KitchenAid mixer to make ice cream ensures a smoother, creamier texture that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or a first-timer, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, yet results in the most decadent strawberry ice cream.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a cool, homemade treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need for KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream

To create this creamy, dreamy strawberry ice cream, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients, all of which work together to bring out the full flavor of ripe strawberries.

Here’s everything you need:

Fresh Strawberries

The star of this ice cream is the fresh strawberries. Using ripe, in-season strawberries will provide the best flavor and sweetness.

Fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the ice cream, and their juiciness is perfect for creating a luscious base.

You’ll want to wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and slice them before mashing or pureeing them for the mixture.

Heavy Cream and Whole Milk

A perfect strawberry ice cream requires a creamy, smooth texture. That’s where heavy cream and whole milk come in.

The combination of these two ingredients creates a rich base that’s thick and velvety.

Heavy cream adds the needed richness, while the whole milk balances out the fat content, making the texture soft yet indulgent.

Together, they create that satisfying creaminess we all crave in a great ice cream.

Sugar

Sugar is essential for bringing out the sweetness in the strawberries and balancing the richness of the cream.

The sugar helps to break down the strawberries and draw out their natural juices, creating the perfect, smooth base for your ice cream.

You’ll want to use granulated sugar, which dissolves well into the cream and milk mixture, creating that silky smooth consistency.

Vanilla Extract

A dash of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of your ice cream.

While the strawberries steal the show, vanilla adds a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the fruitiness without overpowering it.

It’s an essential ingredient that helps bring all the flavors together.

Lemon Juice (Optional)

While it’s optional, a small amount of lemon juice can work wonders to bring out the natural flavor of the strawberries.

The acidity in lemon juice cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing balance to the ice cream.

It’s a great little secret to help elevate the strawberry taste, making it more vibrant and fresh.

These ingredients are simple but crucial in making your KitchenAid strawberry ice cream smooth, flavorful, and downright irresistible!

Equipment You Need to Make Strawberry Ice Cream

To make this KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream, you don’t need much—just the right equipment to help everything come together perfectly.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools you’ll need:

KitchenAid Stand Mixer and Ice Cream Maker Attachment

The KitchenAid Stand Mixer is the heart of this recipe, and when paired with the KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment, it makes the process both easy and efficient.

The attachment churns the ice cream mixture, mimicking the traditional ice cream maker’s functionality but with less hassle.

It also helps create the smooth and creamy texture that’s hard to achieve by hand.

If you don’t already own this attachment, it’s a worthwhile investment for making homemade ice cream, as it fits directly onto the mixer and is designed for convenience and ease.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Precision is key when making ice cream, and measuring cups and spoons are vital for accuracy.

You’ll want to measure your cream, milk, sugar, and other ingredients carefully to ensure the balance of flavors and the perfect texture.

Be sure to use liquid measuring cups for liquids like milk and cream and standard dry measuring cups for your sugar and strawberries.

Mixing Bowl

A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining your ingredients before adding them to the ice cream maker attachment.

You’ll want one that’s big enough to comfortably whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, and strawberry puree without spilling.

Small Saucepan (Optional)

A small saucepan may be required for heating the cream, milk, and sugar mixture.

Gently warming this mixture helps dissolve the sugar and creates a smoother base for your ice cream.

Just be sure not to boil it, as you only need to warm it enough to dissolve the sugar.

Freezer-Safe Container

Once your ice cream has churned, it will need to freeze to firm up before serving.

A freezer-safe container with an airtight lid is perfect for storing the ice cream while it firms up.

Make sure the container is deep enough to allow the ice cream to expand as it freezes.

With these essential tools, you’ll have everything you need to make smooth, homemade strawberry ice cream with your KitchenAid mixer!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream

Making strawberry ice cream with your KitchenAid is surprisingly simple!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet dessert:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Base

Start by preparing the strawberries. Wash them thoroughly and remove the stems. Slice the strawberries into small pieces to make them easier to mash.

Place the strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle them with sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the natural juices from the fruit.

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the strawberries in a food processor or blender to create a puree.

For a chunkier texture, simply mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher.

Step 2: Combine the Cream, Milk, and Sugar

In a separate bowl or small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and the remaining sugar.

If you’re using a saucepan, heat the mixture over low to medium heat just until the sugar is dissolved (be careful not to let it boil).

If you’re using a bowl, just whisk together the ingredients until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Blend the Strawberry Mixture

Once the cream, milk, and sugar mixture has cooled, combine it with your strawberry puree or mashed strawberries.

Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

If you’re using lemon juice, add it now to enhance the strawberry flavor. Mix everything together until the base is evenly combined and smooth.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

To ensure the ice cream churns effectively, it’s important to chill the mixture before adding it to the KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment.

Cover the mixture and place it in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if possible.

This step helps ensure that the base is at the ideal temperature for churning, leading to a creamier texture.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream with KitchenAid Attachment

Once the mixture is well-chilled, attach the ice cream maker attachment to your KitchenAid stand mixer. Make sure the attachment’s bowl and dasher are securely in place.

Turn your mixer to a low speed, then gradually pour the chilled strawberry mixture into the bowl.

Allow the mixture to churn for about 20-25 minutes or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Be sure to monitor the process closely—the ice cream will thicken as it churns.

Step 6: Freeze the Ice Cream

After churning, the ice cream will still be soft, so transfer it into a freezer-safe container.

Use a spatula to scrape out all the ice cream and smooth the top.

Place the container in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours to firm up. If you like your ice cream a little firmer, you can freeze it longer.

Once frozen, your homemade KitchenAid strawberry ice cream is ready to serve! Enjoy it in bowls, cones, or as a topping for other desserts.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Ice Cream Every Time

To make sure your strawberry ice cream turns out just as you envision—creamy, smooth, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor—follow these helpful tips:

Use Fresh, In-Season Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are the foundation of a great strawberry ice cream.

During peak strawberry season, berries are naturally sweeter and more flavorful, which will shine through in your ice cream.

If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can also use frozen strawberries, but fresh will give you the best results.

Make sure to wash and hull them properly before use, and allow them to sit with sugar to bring out their natural juices.

Balance the Sweetness

While the sugar in the recipe helps bring out the strawberry’s flavor, it’s essential to strike the right balance.

Taste your strawberry puree after adding sugar, and if you feel it needs a little more sweetness, feel free to adjust it to your preference.

Keep in mind that when the ice cream freezes, it may taste slightly less sweet, so err on the side of sweetness while making the base.

Chill Your Mixture Before Churning

Chilling your ice cream mixture before you begin churning is key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture.

A well-chilled mixture reduces the chances of icy crystals forming and helps the ice cream maker attachment churn more effectively.

Ideally, let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight) before using the KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment.

Don’t Over-churn

The KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment churns quickly, and over-churning can lead to a more dense, icy texture.

Keep an eye on the ice cream as it churns—when it reaches a soft-serve consistency, stop the mixer.

Over-churning can also cause the mixture to freeze too hard, so always check to see if the texture is smooth and thickening as it should.

Try Adding Mix-ins

While this strawberry ice cream is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative by adding mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning.

Chopped fresh strawberries, chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, or even small swirls of caramel or strawberry sauce can enhance the texture and add layers of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

While making homemade ice cream is a fun and rewarding process, it doesn’t always go smoothly.

Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to solve them:

Ice Cream is Too Soft After Churning

If your ice cream seems too soft after churning, it could be because the mixture wasn’t chilled long enough before churning.

Make sure to chill your base for several hours, or even overnight, to achieve the best consistency.

Additionally, if your ice cream is too soft, simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for a few more hours until it firms up.

Ice Cream Has Ice Crystals

If you notice ice crystals forming in your ice cream, this could be a result of the mixture not being chilled enough before churning, or the ice cream wasn’t churned long enough.

The key to preventing ice crystals is to ensure your mixture is thoroughly chilled and properly churned, and that you freeze it quickly after churning.

Using full-fat cream and milk also helps create a smoother texture.

Ice Cream is Too Hard to Scoop

When homemade ice cream is too hard to scoop, it may have been in the freezer for too long.

Homemade ice cream freezes much firmer than store-bought versions due to the lack of stabilizers.

If this happens, simply let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

This will soften it slightly, making it easier to serve.

Mixture is Too Runny

If your ice cream mixture is too runny before churning, it could be due to insufficient thickening of the base or not enough cream.

Check the ratio of cream to milk in your recipe and ensure you’ve used enough heavy cream for a creamy texture.

If the mixture seems too thin, try adding a bit more cream or even a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken it before churning.

By keeping these tips in mind and knowing how to troubleshoot any issues that arise, you’ll be able to make the perfect KitchenAid strawberry ice cream every time!

Variations of the KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe

While the classic KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream recipe is a crowd-pleaser on its own, you can easily mix things up with some delicious variations.

Here are a few ideas to add a twist to your homemade ice cream:

Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

For a fun and fruity variation, try adding ripe bananas to your strawberry ice cream.

The natural sweetness and smooth texture of the bananas complement the strawberries perfectly, creating a rich, creamy, and extra refreshing treat.

Simply blend one or two ripe bananas into your strawberry mixture before churning.

It’s an easy way to elevate your ice cream and add an extra layer of flavor.

Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, making vegan strawberry ice cream is simpler than you might think.

Instead of using heavy cream and whole milk, substitute them with coconut milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer.

For the creamy texture, coconut milk is a fantastic option as it has a rich, creamy consistency.

Be sure to use a non-dairy sweetener like agave or maple syrup if you want to keep it fully vegan.

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

If you love the tangy flavor of cheesecake, this variation is for you. Incorporate cream cheese into your ice cream base to give it that rich, creamy cheesecake flavor.

For even more authenticity, swirl in some crushed graham crackers and a bit of vanilla extract.

This recipe creates an irresistible blend of strawberry sweetness with that iconic cheesecake flavor, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions.

Strawberry Sorbet

For a lighter, dairy-free option, you can turn your strawberry ice cream recipe into a refreshing strawberry sorbet.

Replace the dairy with extra fruit juice, such as a splash of lemon or orange juice, to help balance the sweetness and add a bit of citrus zing.

This version is a perfect treat for hot days when you’re craving something fruity and refreshing but without the creaminess of traditional ice cream.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Ice Cream

If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding a chocolate twist to your strawberry ice cream.

Stir in small chunks of chocolate or chocolate chips during the final minutes of churning, or swirl in melted chocolate to give it a marbled effect.

This will give your strawberry ice cream a rich, indulgent chocolate layer that pairs beautifully with the fruity freshness of the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions for KitchenAid Strawberry Ice Cream

Homemade strawberry ice cream is already a treat, but there are plenty of ways to serve and enhance it.

Here are some ideas to elevate your ice cream experience:

Classic Ice Cream Cones

The classic cone is always a winner. Scoop your strawberry ice cream into waffle cones or sugar cones for a fun and portable treat.

You can drizzle the tops with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles for extra texture and flavor.

In a Sundae

Create a decadent strawberry sundae by adding a scoop (or two) of your homemade ice cream to a bowl or glass.

Top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry syrup.

Add a cherry on top for that traditional sundae experience, or even mix in some crumbled cookies for extra crunch.

With Fresh Berries and Mint

To bring out the natural strawberry flavor, serve your ice cream with fresh, seasonal berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.

Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing and aromatic touch.

This combination gives your ice cream a more sophisticated flair, perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches

For a fun, hybrid dessert, use your homemade strawberry ice cream to create ice cream sandwiches with shortcake biscuits or cookies.

The light, fluffy biscuits perfectly complement the rich, creamy ice cream, giving you the best of both worlds.

You can even roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for added texture.

As a Topping for Other Desserts

Strawberry ice cream isn’t just delicious on its own; it also makes an excellent topping for other desserts.

Scoop it over warm fruit cobblers, pies, or brownies for an indulgent dessert experience.

The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warmth of freshly baked goods, creating a satisfying balance of textures.

In a Milkshake

Take your strawberry ice cream to the next level by turning it into a milkshake.

Blend a scoop or two of ice cream with milk and a splash of vanilla extract for a thick, creamy milkshake.

You can even add extra strawberry puree for an extra burst of flavor, or garnish with whipped cream and a cherry for that perfect milkshake presentation.

By using these serving suggestions, you can get even more creative with how you enjoy your homemade KitchenAid strawberry ice cream and make it the highlight of any occasion!

Conclusion

Making strawberry ice cream with your KitchenAid stand mixer is an incredibly rewarding and fun experience.

With a few simple ingredients, the help of your KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment, and a little patience, you can create a deliciously creamy, homemade treat that far surpasses anything store-bought.

Whether you stick with the classic strawberry flavor or try one of the many exciting variations, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for all your ice cream cravings.

The best part about making ice cream at home is the ability to customize it to your taste, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy it fresh.

The next time you’re craving a sweet, fruity dessert, you’ll be prepared to whip up a batch of smooth, rich strawberry ice cream in no time.

Plus, your friends and family will be impressed with your ice cream-making skills—no one will believe it was made in your own kitchen!

So, gather those fresh strawberries, dust off your KitchenAid mixer, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, homemade goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. However, fresh strawberries are ideal because they offer the best flavor and texture.

If you use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them before blending to achieve the desired consistency.

2. How long does the ice cream take to freeze?

After churning your ice cream, it will need at least 4-6 hours in the freezer to firm up.

If you prefer a firmer texture, you can leave it in the freezer for longer.

Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it’s too hard to scoop.

3. Can I make this strawberry ice cream without the KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment?

Yes, you can make strawberry ice cream without the KitchenAid attachment by using a traditional ice cream maker or even a no-churn method.

The churning process in the KitchenAid attachment helps create a smooth texture, but you can still get good results with alternative methods.

4. How can I make this strawberry ice cream dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of this ice cream, simply substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk.

You can also use non-dairy sweeteners like maple syrup or agave to keep it fully vegan.

5. How long will the strawberry ice cream last in the freezer?

Homemade strawberry ice cream will last for about 1-2 weeks in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container.

However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy it within the first few days of making it, as homemade ice cream can get harder and lose its creamy texture over time.