Homemade Peach Ice Cream

Introduction

There’s something special about homemade peach ice cream that captures the essence of summer. The sweetness of fresh, ripe peaches combined with the rich creaminess of the base makes for a dessert that’s not only delicious but nostalgic as well. I recently made this homemade peach ice cream for a family gathering, and let me tell you, it was an absolute hit! My family couldn’t stop raving about it, and everyone wanted seconds. The texture was smooth and creamy, and the peach flavor shone through perfectly. It was a refreshing treat that reminded us of those lazy summer afternoons spent enjoying ice cream on the porch.

Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this homemade peach ice cream recipe is bound to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients come together beautifully to create a dessert that will make everyone smile.

Ingredients

To make this delicious homemade peach ice cream, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh peaches – peeled, pitted, and chopped
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 pint half-and-half cream
• 1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 12 fluid ounce can evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups whole milk (or as needed)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peaches:
   Dice the fresh peaches and mix them with the sugar in a bowl. Let this sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the juice from the peaches, which will enhance the flavor.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
   In a separate large bowl, combine the half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Peaches with Ice Cream Base:
   Add the peaches and sugar mixture to the milk and cream mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the peaches are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Freeze the Ice Cream:
   Pour the combined mixture into a gallon ice cream freezer container. Add enough whole milk to fill the container up to the fill line, which is about 2 cups. This will help adjust the consistency and volume of your ice cream.
5. Freeze and Enjoy:
   Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream machine. Once the mixture has frozen and thickened, transfer it to a container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours to allow it to firm up further. The longer you freeze it, the firmer it will become.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 scoop (about ½ cup)
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 40mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 29g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding refrigeration time for the ice cream maker)
• Chill Time: 2-3 hours
• Freezing Time: 30-40 minutes (or per your ice cream machine’s instructions)

How to Serve

To serve your homemade peach ice cream and make it even more delightful, try these suggestions:

• Serve the ice cream in bowls or cones for a traditional treat.
• Top with fresh peach slices for extra fruity goodness.
• Add a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce for a touch of sweetness.
• Garnish with crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for some crunch.
• Pair it with other summer desserts like warm peach cobbler for a delicious combo.

Additional Tips

1. Chill Your Ice Cream Maker: To ensure your ice cream freezes faster, chill your ice cream maker’s container for several hours before use.
2. Peach Ripeness Matters: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh peaches. They should be fragrant and give slightly to the touch when squeezed.
3. Sweetness Adjustment: Taste your peach mixture before adding it to the ice cream base. If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, add a little more sugar.
4. Homemade Toppings: Try making homemade toppings like peach syrup or candied pecans to add an extra layer of flavor.
5. Check Consistency: If the ice cream is too soft after freezing, let it sit for a few minutes to soften before serving.

Recipe Variations

While this peach ice cream is delicious as is, there are many ways to make it your own. Here are some variations you might enjoy:

• Berry Peach Ice Cream: Add a handful of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to the peach mixture for a fruity twist.
• Peach Yogurt Ice Cream: Swap out some of the half-and-half for Greek yogurt to add creaminess and tang.
• Vegan Peach Ice Cream: Substitute the half-and-half and whole milk with coconut milk and use dairy-free condensed milk.
• Peach Melba Ice Cream: Swirl raspberry sauce into the finished ice cream for a classic combination of peach and raspberry.

Serving Suggestions

• For a Sweet Breakfast: Serve a scoop of peach ice cream on top of warm pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast treat.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Scoop the ice cream between two soft cookies for a fun, handheld dessert.
• With Grilled Peaches: Grill halved peaches on the barbecue and serve them with a scoop of peach ice cream for a summery dessert.
• Peach Ice Cream Cake: Layer peach ice cream with sponge cake and whipped cream to make a simple ice cream cake.

Freezing and Storage

Homemade ice cream can be stored in your freezer for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent freezer burn. If you notice the ice cream becoming too hard, let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping to soften it.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.

Q2: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
A2: Yes, you can pour the mixture into a shallow pan, freeze it, and stir every 30 minutes to prevent ice crystals from forming. This method will take longer.

Q3: How long does the ice cream need to freeze before serving?
A3: After making the ice cream in the machine, freeze it for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to firm up.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without the sweetened condensed milk?
A4: You could use additional sugar and cream to replace the sweetened condensed milk, but the texture and sweetness may change.

Q5: Can I add other fruits to the ice cream?
A5: Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mango for a different flavor.

Q6: How can I make this ice cream less sweet?
A6: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute to control the sweetness.

Q7: How do I know if the ice cream is done?
A7: The ice cream should have thickened and should not pour easily. Test it with a spoon to ensure the consistency is creamy.

Q8: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the ice cream?
A8: Yes! Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips in the last few minutes of churning for added texture.

Q9: Is this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance?
A9: You can make a lactose-free version by using lactose-free milk and cream alternatives.

Q10: Can I make this ice cream without vanilla extract?
A10: While vanilla enhances the flavor, it’s not essential. You can skip it or try using almond extract for a different flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade peach ice cream recipe is a simple yet incredibly rewarding treat to make at home. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and creamy milk creates a dessert that is perfect for warm weather or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. With a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can make an ice cream that rivals store-bought versions. Plus, the variations and tips allow you to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual family dessert, homemade peach ice cream is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Print