How to Make Delicious Ice Cream with a Food Processor

Ice cream. Is there a more delightful word in the English language? This frozen treat conjures up images of summer days, birthday parties, and sweet memories made with loved ones. But what if I told you that you can skip the lines at the ice cream parlor and make your own homemade version, easily, with a tool you probably already have in your kitchen – a food processor?

That’s right! With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty food processor, you can whip up a batch of creamy, dreamy ice cream that will have everyone screaming for more.

Gathering Your Ice Cream Ingredients

The beauty of making ice cream at home is that you can customize it to your liking. Want to add a swirl of caramel? Go for it! Feeling adventurous and want to try a pinch of chili powder? Why not! But before we get too creative, let’s start with a basic vanilla ice cream recipe that serves as a perfect base for any flavor combination you can dream up.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-ins:

• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup chopped strawberries

Tools of the Trade

Besides your star player – the food processor – you will also need:

• A mixing bowl
• A whisk
• An airtight container for freezing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Guide to Food Processor Ice Cream

1. Combine and Chill: In your mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is dissolved. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial for achieving that perfectly creamy texture.

2. Process to Perfection: Pour the chilled ice cream mixture into your food processor. Pulse the mixture for about 30 seconds to break up any ice crystals that may have formed. Then, process on high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is thick, smooth, and doubled in volume. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles soft-serve ice cream.

   Food Processor Making Ice Cream

3. Mix-in Magic (Optional): If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit, now’s the time! Gently fold them into the ice cream mixture using a spatula.

4. Freeze and Enjoy: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container, ensuring to spread it evenly. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

   Containers of Ice Cream in the Freezer

Tips for Ice Cream Extraordinaire

• Don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free alternative.

• For richer flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of extract. Scrape the seeds from one vanilla bean and add them along with the paste for an extra flavor boost.

• Having trouble getting your ice cream to freeze solid? Make sure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower.

• Be patient! Freezing time can vary depending on your freezer. Resist the urge to churn for less time, as a longer freeze allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Making ice cream in a food processor is a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy, and the result is a delicious and personalized treat.

What are you waiting for? Dust off your food processor and get churning! You’ll be amazed at what you can create.

Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us! We would love to see your culinary masterpieces. Tag us on social media with #FamilyCuisineIceCream.