There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, juicy peaches in the summertime—and what better way to enjoy them than in a scoop of Homemade Peach Ice Cream? This creamy, dreamy dessert is bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, balanced by a rich, velvety base. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this ice cream is the perfect way to savor the flavors of the season. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, even without an ice cream maker!
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delicious ice cream, including step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and why this recipe is a must-try. Let’s get churning!
Why You’ll Love This Peach Ice Cream
- Fresh and Flavorful: Made with ripe peaches, this ice cream is bursting with natural sweetness and fruity flavor.
- Creamy and Smooth: The rich custard base ensures a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- No Ice Cream Maker Needed: You can make this ice cream with or without a machine.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or just a sweet treat on a hot day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious ice cream:
For the Peach Puree:
- 4-5 ripe peaches, peeled and pitted (about 2 cups chopped)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 4 large egg yolks (optional, for a custard base)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peach Puree
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp, if desired. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks (if using). Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
- Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
Step 3: Combine and Churn
- Once the ice cream base is chilled, stir in the peach puree.
- Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Freeze and Serve
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Scoop and serve with fresh peach slices, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for extra flair.
Tips for Customization
- Add Texture: Stir in chopped peaches, toasted pecans, or crumbled shortbread cookies before freezing.
- Make It Boozy: Add a splash of bourbon or peach schnapps for an adult twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream and milk.
- Extra Peachy: Use white peaches or a mix of peach varieties for a more complex flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes! Thaw frozen peaches before blending. They work just as well as fresh peaches.
2. How do I store leftover ice cream?
Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
3. Can I make this without eggs?
Absolutely! Skip the egg yolks and use a simple no-churn base with whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk.
4. What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
No problem! Follow the no-churn method by freezing the mixture in a shallow dish and stirring every 30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Peach Ice Cream is a sweet, creamy, and refreshing way to celebrate the flavors of summer. With its rich custard base and vibrant peach flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this ice cream is a treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us. Happy scooping!
