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White Mountain ice cream is a beloved classic, known for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and nostalgic ties to homemade ice cream traditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or someone looking to create your first batch, this recipe offers a timeless way to enjoy a frozen treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
What sets White Mountain ice cream apart is the process—churning the mixture by hand or with a vintage-style ice cream maker, which ensures a smooth and creamy result.
It’s the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth with a comforting, homemade indulgence.
If you’re ready to dive into the world of homemade ice cream, the White Mountain ice cream recipe will bring you closer to that perfect scoop.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a batch of creamy goodness that rivals even the best store-bought options.
Let’s explore the rich history and flavors behind this dessert, and learn how to make it yourself!
What is White Mountain Ice Cream?
White Mountain ice cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition passed down through generations.
The name “White Mountain” is often associated with the classic ice cream maker brand, White Mountain Freezers, which became synonymous with hand-cranked ice cream makers.
These machines were designed to churn the ice cream mixture slowly and evenly, creating an ultra-creamy texture.
While the White Mountain brand may be most famous for its ice cream makers, the term has come to represent the classic, old-fashioned ice cream style that is made using this particular method.
This type of ice cream is known for its velvety smoothness, with a rich base typically consisting of heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
The beauty of White Mountain ice cream lies in its simplicity. The process focuses on churning the ingredients until they blend together perfectly, then freezing them to a soft, scoopable consistency.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the process of making it by hand, and the result is a treat that’s both delicious and deeply satisfying.
Whether made with an ice cream maker or by hand, White Mountain ice cream delivers a homemade taste that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need for White Mountain Ice Cream
To make a delicious batch of White Mountain ice cream, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that combine to create a smooth and creamy frozen treat.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- Heavy Cream: The star ingredient for creating that rich, creamy texture. The high fat content in heavy cream ensures a smooth, indulgent consistency.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk provides the perfect balance of creaminess without making the ice cream too thick. It complements the heavy cream to give your ice cream a luscious mouthfeel.
- Granulated Sugar: Sugar is crucial for sweetening the base and balancing the richness of the cream. It also helps in achieving that smooth, silky texture as it dissolves.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract brings in a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the cream and enhances the overall taste of the ice cream. You can also use vanilla bean paste or scraped vanilla beans for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- Eggs (for Custard Base): Some White Mountain ice cream recipes include eggs to make a custard base, which adds a silky texture and a more complex flavor. If you want a custard-style ice cream, you’ll need to temper the eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Add-ins: You can customize your White Mountain ice cream with various mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped fruits (like strawberries or peaches), or crushed nuts for extra flavor and texture.
These basic ingredients come together to make a simple yet decadent ice cream that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of heavy cream, milk, and sugar creates a smooth, rich foundation, while the vanilla enhances the flavor and allows for creative customization.
How to Make White Mountain Ice Cream: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making White Mountain ice cream is a satisfying and relatively easy process that allows you to create a creamy, indulgent treat at home.
Whether you’re using a traditional hand-cranked ice cream maker or an electric model, the steps remain similar.
Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own batch of homemade ice cream.
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
Start by mixing the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar together in a large bowl. Stir the ingredients until the sugar is completely dissolved.
This may take a minute or two. If you’re using eggs to create a custard base, you’ll need to separate the yolks from the whites, then whisk the yolks with some sugar and heat the mixture gently until it thickens before adding it to the cream and milk mixture.
This step results in a smoother, richer texture, but it is entirely optional depending on your preferences.
Once your cream and milk mixture is smooth, add in the vanilla extract, and stir to incorporate.
This will infuse the base with the signature flavor that defines White Mountain ice cream.
Step 2: Churn the Ice Cream
Once your base is ready, it’s time to churn it. If you’re using a White Mountain ice cream maker or any other type of ice cream machine, pour the prepared mixture into the machine’s bowl.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your machine, typically adding the mixture to the machine before turning it on.
As the machine churns, the mixture will begin to thicken and freeze.
This process should take between 20-30 minutes, depending on your ice cream maker and how much mixture you’re making.
During this time, the churning motion incorporates air into the mixture, giving the ice cream its light, fluffy texture.
If you’re making the ice cream by hand and don’t have a machine, you’ll need to place the base in a shallow pan, then freeze it.
Every 30 minutes, stir it vigorously with a fork or whisk to break up the ice crystals and create a smoother texture.
This can take a few hours, so patience is key.
Step 3: Freeze and Set
Once your ice cream has churned to the desired consistency (smooth but firm enough to scoop), transfer it to an airtight container for freezing.
This step will give the ice cream time to firm up and achieve that classic scoopable texture.
Cover the container tightly and freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or until it reaches a solid consistency.
The waiting game can be the hardest part, but it’s essential for achieving the perfect homemade ice cream texture.
Once frozen, your White Mountain ice cream is ready to serve!
Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a cone, or topped with your favorite additions, you’ll savor every bite of this homemade frozen delight.
Tips for Perfecting Your White Mountain Ice Cream
Making homemade ice cream is an art, and with a few simple adjustments, you can elevate your White Mountain ice cream to perfection.
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the creamiest, most flavorful results:
Adjust the Sweetness
Not everyone has the same taste when it comes to sweetness.
If you prefer your ice cream a bit sweeter, feel free to increase the amount of sugar slightly.
If you like a more subtle sweetness, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
Just make sure to taste the base before churning to ensure it meets your personal preference.
Achieve the Perfect Creaminess
To make sure your ice cream is velvety smooth, it’s crucial to get the right balance of fat and water.
Stick to whole milk and heavy cream, as lower-fat alternatives can result in a more icy, less creamy texture.
If you’re looking for an extra-creamy result, you can increase the ratio of heavy cream to milk.
Don’t Over-Churn
Churning is essential to making creamy ice cream, but over-churning can lead to an overly firm texture.
Be sure to stop churning once the ice cream is thick and scoopable, as further churning can cause the ice crystals to break down and become too hard once frozen.
Let It Set Properly
After churning, the ice cream will be at a soft-serve consistency, so don’t rush the final freeze.
Be patient and allow the ice cream to set in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until it reaches the desired firmness.
This extra step helps develop the perfect scoopable texture and makes all the difference when it comes to enjoying your homemade treat.
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, always use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
If possible, opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation vanilla.
Fresh cream and milk will provide a richer flavor profile than older products, and if you’re using eggs, make sure they’re fresh as well to achieve the best texture.
Fun Variations of White Mountain Ice Cream
One of the best things about making your own White Mountain ice cream is the ability to customize it with fun, creative flavors and add-ins.
While the classic vanilla is delicious on its own, here are some fun variations to try that can elevate your homemade ice cream experience:
Chocolate Chip White Mountain Ice Cream
Add an irresistible twist to your White Mountain ice cream by mixing in some semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks.
The rich chocolate pieces provide a delightful contrast to the creamy base, creating a classic chocolate chip ice cream that’s perfect for any chocolate lover.
Fruit-Infused White Mountain Ice Cream
Fruit and cream are a match made in heaven! Consider incorporating fresh or frozen fruits like strawberries, peaches, blueberries, or raspberries into your ice cream.
Blend the fruit into the base for a smooth infusion or fold in chunky pieces for some texture.
For an added twist, you can swirl in fruit purees for a vibrant, flavorful variation.
Nutty White Mountain Ice Cream
If you love a bit of crunch in your ice cream, add chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans to your White Mountain ice cream.
Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them will bring out their natural flavors and add a rich depth to your ice cream.
For a twist, mix in some caramelized nuts for extra sweetness and texture.
Chocolate Swirl White Mountain Ice Cream
Create a luscious chocolate swirl by melting some dark or milk chocolate and drizzling it into the ice cream base just before it’s fully churned.
As the machine continues to churn, the chocolate will swirl through the ice cream, creating ribbons of chocolatey goodness.
For an extra indulgent treat, you can even add a touch of cocoa powder to the base for an enhanced chocolate flavor.
Coffee-Infused White Mountain Ice Cream
For coffee lovers, infusing your White Mountain ice cream with a rich coffee flavor is a must-try.
Simply brew some strong coffee or espresso and add it to the cream and milk mixture.
The bitterness of the coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet, creamy base, creating a decadent coffee ice cream that’s perfect for an afternoon treat.
Mint Chocolate Chip White Mountain Ice Cream
Bring a refreshing twist to your White Mountain ice cream with a minty flavor.
Add a few drops of mint extract to the base, then fold in chocolate chips or shaved chocolate for the ultimate mint chocolate chip ice cream.
This variation is refreshing and perfect for those hot summer days.
Cookie Dough White Mountain Ice Cream
Who doesn’t love cookie dough in their ice cream? Make your own edible cookie dough by combining flour, butter, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, then folding it into your ice cream base just before it finishes churning.
The chewy dough pieces combined with the creamy ice cream create a fun and irresistible treat.
By experimenting with different ingredients and mix-ins, you can create a variety of fun flavors that will impress family and friends.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to White Mountain ice cream, so feel free to get creative and enjoy a new ice cream flavor with every batch you make!
Serving Ideas for White Mountain Ice Cream
Once your White Mountain ice cream is perfectly churned and frozen, it’s time to serve it up! Whether you prefer it in a simple bowl or you want to get a bit more creative with your presentation, here are some fun ideas to make your ice cream experience even more delightful:
Classic Cone or Bowl
Sometimes, simplicity is the best. Serve your White Mountain ice cream in a classic waffle cone or a decorative bowl.
For an extra touch, you can dip the edges of the cone in melted chocolate and sprinkle on crushed nuts or sprinkles for a fun and festive look.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Why not elevate your ice cream experience by creating a sundae bar?
Offer a variety of toppings such as hot fudge, caramel sauce, fresh fruit, whipped cream, crushed cookies, or candy.
Let everyone build their own personalized sundae masterpiece, choosing from a range of mix-ins and sauces to suit their tastes.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Use cookies or brownies as the base and sandwich a scoop of White Mountain ice cream between them to create homemade ice cream sandwiches.
For a fun twist, roll the edges of the sandwich in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed nuts.
These are perfect for parties or a casual treat!
Ice Cream Floats
Give your White Mountain ice cream a bubbly twist by turning it into a float.
Place a scoop of ice cream in a tall glass and pour over soda, such as root beer, cola, or even sparkling fruit juice.
This nostalgic treat will be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ice Cream Cake
For a special occasion, turn your White Mountain ice cream into a delicious ice cream cake.
Layer ice cream with cake (either homemade or store-bought), drizzle with hot fudge or caramel, and freeze the layers to set.
You can even add crunchy layers with crushed cookies or nuts for added texture.
Conclusion
Making White Mountain ice cream at home is an incredibly satisfying experience that results in a rich, creamy, and decadent treat.
The process is easy, and with a few tips and tricks, you can create an ice cream that rivals anything from the store.
Whether you stick to the classic vanilla flavor or get creative with fun variations, this homemade ice cream will always be a crowd-pleaser.
The beauty of White Mountain ice cream is its versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite mix-ins and serve it in a variety of ways.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this homemade treat will add a touch of nostalgia and indulgence to every occasion.
So, gather your ingredients, churn away, and enjoy the process of making your own batch of White Mountain ice cream that’s as delicious as it is fun to make.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make White Mountain Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make White Mountain ice cream by freezing the base in a shallow dish and stirring it every 30 minutes to break up the ice crystals.
This manual process helps create a smooth texture, although it might take a little longer than using an ice cream machine.
2. How Long Does It Take to Make White Mountain Ice Cream?
The total time for making White Mountain ice cream depends on your method.
If you’re using an ice cream maker, it typically takes 20-30 minutes of churning, plus at least 4 hours of freezing time to firm up.
Without an ice cream maker, the process can take several hours of stirring and freezing, but the result is just as rewarding.
3. Can I Make White Mountain Ice Cream in Advance?
Absolutely! White Mountain ice cream can be made in advance.
Once churned and frozen, it will stay fresh for up to a week if stored properly in an airtight container.
Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it’s too firm after being in the freezer for a while.
4. How Do I Prevent Ice Crystals in My Ice Cream?
To minimize ice crystals, be sure to churn your ice cream thoroughly to incorporate air and break up any ice.
If you’re making it by hand, stir it every 30 minutes while it freezes to keep the texture smooth.
Additionally, adding a small amount of alcohol, like vodka or liqueur, can help prevent large ice crystals and make your ice cream even creamier.
5. Can I Use Non-Dairy Alternatives to Make White Mountain Ice Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version of White Mountain ice cream, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
You’ll want to choose full-fat options for the creamiest results. You can also use plant-based sugars or sweeteners to cater to your dietary preferences.
White Mountain Ice Cream
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (1 machine, either hand-cranked or electric)
- Mixing Bowls (2 medium bowls for mixing)
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Whisk (for mixing)
- Spatula (for scraping the ice cream)
- Airtight Container – for storing the ice cream
Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- Optional: 4 large Egg Yolks for a custard base
Instructions
Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. If using eggs, separate the yolks from the whites and whisk the yolks with sugar in a saucepan. Gently heat over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly, then add to the milk and cream mixture.
Add the Vanilla:
- Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing well. If you used eggs to make a custard base, ensure the mixture is cooled before moving to the next step.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the ice cream base into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, usually churning for 20-30 minutes. The mixture should thicken and take on a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze and Set:
- Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours or until the ice cream has set and is firm enough to scoop.
Serve:
- Scoop the White Mountain ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy! Add optional toppings like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or fruit for extra flavor.
Notes
- Eggs: Using eggs will create a richer, custard-style ice cream, but it’s not necessary. The recipe will still turn out creamy without them.
- Freezing Tip: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the base in a shallow container, stirring it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals.
- Customization: This recipe is easily customizable—add-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts can be folded into the mixture right before freezing.
