Homemade Peach Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade peach ice cream is a nostalgic treat, with ripe peaches providing that burst of summer flavor in every bite. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half-and-half creates a wonderfully creamy base, while the vanilla extract adds a fragrant depth of flavor. The result is a smooth, luscious ice cream with bits of real peach throughout, making it the perfect refreshing dessert for hot days or any time you want to indulge in something sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds fresh peaches – peeled, pitted, and chopped
• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups whole milk, or as needed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the peaches: Peel, pit, and chop the peaches into small pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash them slightly with a fork or potato masher to release some of the juice.
2. Make the peach mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped peaches with the white sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the juices from the peaches.
3. Blend the ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the peaches with half-and-half cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks of peaches for texture, if desired.
4. Adjust the consistency: Pour the blended peach mixture into a bowl and add the whole milk, one cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If you like a thicker ice cream, you may not need all of the whole milk.
5. Chill the mixture: Cover the peach mixture and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until it is well chilled.
6. Freeze the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the ice cream. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on your machine.
7. Harden the ice cream: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the ice cream to firm up.
8. Serve: Scoop and serve the homemade peach ice cream with fresh peach slices or enjoy it as-is. It’s best enjoyed on a warm day with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of crushed nuts.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-3 hours
• Churning Time: 20-25 minutes
• Freezing Time: 4+ hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 6+ hours (including freezing)

Variations

• Peach Swirl: For an extra peachy touch, reserve some of the chopped peaches and swirl them into the ice cream after it’s churned for a more textured and fruit-filled result.
• Add-ins: Try adding crushed graham crackers or crushed shortbread cookies for a crunchy twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
• Non-dairy version: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the dairy ingredients for a dairy-free peach ice cream. Be sure to check for the appropriate thickening agents or stabilizers in your non-dairy options.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store your homemade peach ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After that, it may start to lose some of its texture and flavor.
• Reheating: This ice cream is best served fresh, as the texture may change slightly after being frozen for long periods. Let it sit out for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.

FAQs

Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by placing the mixture in a shallow container. Freeze it for 4-6 hours, stirring every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up the ice crystals and ensure a smooth consistency.

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

While fresh peaches give the best flavor, you can use frozen peaches in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and drain them before blending to avoid excess liquid.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar to suit your taste, but keep in mind that sugar also helps with the texture of the ice cream. A lower sugar content may result in a firmer ice cream.

Can I make this recipe with other fruits?

Yes! This recipe can be adapted to other fruits such as strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries. Just substitute the peaches with your desired fruit and follow the same method.

How can I make this ice cream softer?

If the ice cream becomes too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. You can also add more whole milk to adjust the consistency to your preference before freezing.

How do I store the ice cream to keep it fresh?

Make sure to store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Press a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing it to help maintain freshness.

Can I make this ice cream ahead of time for a party?

Yes, homemade peach ice cream can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

How do I make the ice cream richer?

For a richer texture, you can substitute some of the whole milk with more heavy cream or use a higher-fat milk like half-and-half.

Conclusion

Homemade Peach Ice Cream is a delicious, creamy treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Made with fresh peaches, this ice cream is sweet, smooth, and full of flavor. Whether served as a refreshing dessert on a hot day or as a delightful addition to a family meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its easy preparation and customizable options, you’ll want to make this peach ice cream again and again!

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