Peach Ice Cream
This homemade Peach Ice Cream combines the fresh, juicy flavor of ripe peaches with a rich, creamy custard base for an unforgettable dessert. Simple to make, this recipe features wholesome ingredients and the option for customization, whether you prefer chunks of peaches or a smooth, velvety ice cream. Perfect for summer, this treat is bound to be a hit at any gathering.
Equipment
- 1 Ice Cream Maker (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 Mixing Bowls
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Blender or Food Processor
- 1 Whisk or Hand Mixer
- 1 Fine-Mesh Strainer
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons
- 1 airtight container (for storing ice cream)
Ingredients
- 4 large Peaches peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract optional
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice optional, for extra brightness
Instructions
- Prepare the Peaches:
- Peel and chop the peaches into small pieces. Puree the peaches in a blender or food processor until smooth, or leave some chunks for texture.
Make the Custard Base:
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium until the mixture is warm and the sugar is dissolved, but do not let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add about 1 cup of the warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
- Gradually pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (170-175°F or 77-80°C).
Cool the Custard Base:
- Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits. Let the custard cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Combine with Peach Puree:
- Once chilled, stir the peach puree into the custard base. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract if desired, then mix well.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving. Enjoy as-is or with your favorite toppings!
Notes
- Peach Selection: The key to delicious peach ice cream is ripe, sweet peaches. If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain them before pureeing.
- Ice Cream Texture: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir it every 30 minutes for a few hours to break up ice crystals.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk and use a dairy-free egg substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Add-Ins: Customize your peach ice cream with mix-ins such as crushed graham crackers, caramel swirl, or cinnamon for a unique twist.