Let’s be honest, 2020 provided ample opportunity for screaming (audibly and/or inaudibly). With summer 2021 on the horizon, we should collectively agree to start screaming about something awesome: no-churn homemade ice cream! This sweet, satisfying and easy-to-make dessert is the perfect treat to enjoy while basking in the glorious Colorado sun. Here are some pointers and expert hacks that will have your guests’ enthusiastic reviews echoing off the Rockies.
No-Churn vs. Traditional Churn
No machine, no problem! One of the best things about making no-churn ice cream is that all you need are two large bowls, a hand mixer, a loaf pan and THREE basic ingredients. Gone are the days of bulky machines, hand-cranking, ice, salt, egg-custard bases and inconsistent results. Would you believe that the prep for no-churn ice cream takes just ten minutes? Can’t beat that, although you will still need to mix that. ;)
Base Recipe for Vanilla No-Churn
Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups)
Sweetened Condensed Milk (14-oz can)
Vanilla Extract (2 tsp)
You’ll want to start by using a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. It takes approximately three minutes, but you’ll know the peaks are firm when they stand straight up (no dips in the tips). In a separate bowl, combine the condensed milk and the vanilla. Next, gently fold the cream into the bowl containing the condensed milk/vanilla. Finally, slowly pour the entire mixture into a 9x5 loaf pan and let the freezer finish the job! It will take about six hours and voila!
Choose High Quality Ingredients
When utilizing a recipe with so few ingredients, it is important to note that not all ingredients are created equal. Using a high-quality pure vanilla, such as Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla, and the heaviest whipping cream (think high fat content) that you can get your hands on will make a huge difference in this simple approach to homemade ice cream.
Want those old-fashioned vanilla specks in your custom treat? Mix in a bit of vanilla paste or find some vanilla beans and scrape the pods!
Don’t Forget Your Toppings
Satisfy your cravings by jazzing up this easy recipe with toppings. The sky's the limit when talking accoutrements, but consider making the day extra special by breaking out an ice cream charcuterie board. Care about the aesthetics: fresh fruit, nuts, gummy bears, chocolate, sprinkles, local honey, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, cake crumbles, fudge and caramel will delight even the most complex palate.
Don’t love toppings? Mix-ins might be the way to go. Pureed fruit folded in prior to the freezing process adds a fresh twist, while chocolate lovers can rejoice by substituting chocolate condensed milk and cocoa powder in their concoction.
There’s a luxury kitchen suited perfectly for all of your no-churn homemade ice cream endeavors waiting for you at the modern and stylish VerraWest Apartments. Located near the heart of bustling Longmont,CO, entertainment and adventure are never far for VerraWest residents. Contact us for more information and start dreaming about upscale living, hot summer days, and cold ice cream!