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Strawberry Ice Cream (No Churn)

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This homemade no-churn strawberry ice cream is the epitome of summer indulgence, featuring roasted strawberries that elevate the flavor to a whole new level. The caramelized strawberries give the ice cream its rich pink hue, and every scoop bursts with real strawberry goodness.

Perfect for a hot day or any occasion, this creamy and refreshing dessert is incredibly easy to make. The roasting process removes excess water, preventing ice crystals, ensuring a smooth, silky texture. It’s a delightful treat for all ages and can be enjoyed on its own, in cones, or paired with your favorite toppings.

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Full Recipe:

  • 1 kg / 2 lb strawberries, ripe, hulled, and halved
  • 1 tbsp white sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (395g / 13 oz)
  • 2 cups / 500 ml full-fat cream, for whipping

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/320°F (140°C fan).
  2. Place strawberries on a baking tray, sprinkle with sugar, and toss. Spread evenly.
  3. Roast for 45 minutes, rotating the tray halfway, then continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and blitz in a food processor until smooth. Let cool.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat condensed milk and vanilla with the strawberry mixture for about 1 ½ minutes until well combined and aerated.
  5. In another bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks (around 3 minutes).
  6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture. Combine carefully to preserve the airiness.
  7. Pour the mixture into a container, smooth the top, and press a sheet of baking paper on the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for 12+ hours.
  8. Scoop and serve!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 13 hours (including freezing)
Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings

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No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream: A Creamy, Fruity Delight

Strawberry ice cream is a classic, beloved dessert that brings together the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creaminess of rich, velvety ice cream. Traditionally, making ice cream at home would require specialized equipment like an ice cream maker and a meticulous process of churning and freezing. However, with advancements in modern cooking techniques, no-churn ice cream has become a popular method for home cooks, allowing anyone to make delicious, homemade ice cream without the need for fancy equipment.

This no-churn strawberry ice cream recipe stands out for several reasons: the use of roasted strawberries, the creamy texture achieved without an ice cream maker, and the simplicity of the method. Below, we dive deeper into the elements that make this recipe so special and provide insights into why you should try making this at home.

Why No-Churn Ice Cream is a Game-Changer

No-churn ice cream recipes have taken the home-cooking world by storm. They allow you to create a rich and creamy frozen dessert with minimal ingredients and effort. Unlike traditional ice cream, which requires churning to incorporate air and create a smooth texture, no-churn recipes rely on whipped cream and condensed milk to achieve that same creamy consistency.

Here are the primary reasons why no-churn ice cream recipes are so popular:

  • No Special Equipment Needed: The beauty of this no-churn method is that you don’t need an ice cream maker. This recipe uses common kitchen tools, such as a mixer or a whisk, to whip the cream into stiff peaks, creating a light and airy base for the ice cream.
  • Simple Process: The steps involved in making no-churn ice cream are straightforward, making it accessible for beginners and those short on time. You simply prepare the ingredients, fold them together, and freeze the mixture.
  • Rich, Creamy Texture: Despite the absence of churning, no-churn ice cream delivers a silky, scoopable texture. The use of sweetened condensed milk, which is already thick and creamy, helps mimic the richness you’d expect from traditional ice cream.
  • Customizable: No-churn ice cream recipes are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt them to include different flavors, mix-ins, and toppings. Whether it’s fruit, chocolate, or nuts, the possibilities are endless.

The Secret to Intensely Flavored Strawberry Ice Cream

What sets this strawberry ice cream apart from others is the technique of roasting the strawberries before blending them into the ice cream base. Roasting is a method that not only enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries but also reduces the water content in the fruit. This process results in an intensely flavored strawberry purée that prevents the formation of ice crystals, a common issue in fruit-based ice creams.

Key Benefits of Roasting Strawberries for Ice Cream:

  • Intensifies Flavor: Roasting concentrates the natural sugars in strawberries, producing a deeper, richer flavor compared to raw strawberries. This step is especially important because the condensed milk and cream used in no-churn ice cream can sometimes dilute the fruit’s natural taste.
  • Reduces Water Content: Fruit contains a significant amount of water, which can lead to ice crystals when frozen. By roasting the strawberries, you remove much of this excess moisture, ensuring that the ice cream remains smooth and creamy.
  • Enhances Color: Roasting also deepens the strawberries’ vibrant red color, giving the ice cream a naturally beautiful pink hue without the need for artificial coloring.

Creamy Without Churning: How It Works

In traditional ice cream recipes, churning plays a crucial role in creating a smooth texture by introducing air and breaking up ice crystals as the mixture freezes. The no-churn method, however, bypasses this need through two key components:

  1. Whipped Cream: By whipping the cream until it forms stiff peaks, you incorporate air into the ice cream base. This step mimics the effect of churning, giving the ice cream its creamy, airy consistency.
  2. Sweetened Condensed Milk: The condensed milk serves as the sweetener and binding agent. It has a thick, smooth texture that adds body to the ice cream. Its sugar content also helps lower the freezing point, preventing the formation of large ice crystals.

Together, these two ingredients create a stable base that can be frozen without the need for churning. The result is an ice cream that is just as rich, creamy, and indulgent as traditionally churned ice cream.

Healthier Homemade Ice Cream

Another benefit of making ice cream at home is that you have full control over the ingredients. Store-bought ice creams often contain artificial flavorings, preservatives, and excessive amounts of sugar. By contrast, this homemade version uses real, whole ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner, more natural dessert.

Here’s why this no-churn strawberry ice cream can be considered a healthier option:

  • Real Fruit: The recipe calls for fresh strawberries, giving you the authentic taste of strawberries without relying on artificial flavors.
  • No Additives or Preservatives: Unlike commercial ice creams that often contain stabilizers and preservatives, this homemade version is free from unnecessary additives.
  • Customizable Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. The roasting process naturally intensifies the sweetness of the strawberries, so you may find that you need less sugar than what you’d expect from a traditional recipe.
  • No Artificial Coloring: The beautiful pink hue of the ice cream comes entirely from the strawberries themselves, thanks to the roasting process, which enhances their natural color.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Once your strawberry ice cream is ready, the fun part begins—serving it! There are many ways to enjoy this delicious treat, and you can get creative with how you present it.

Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Classic Scoop: Serve the ice cream in bowls or cones for a traditional ice cream experience. Add fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or sprinkles for extra flair.
  • Ice Cream Sandwiches: Scoop the ice cream between two soft cookies for a delightful summer treat.
  • Ice Cream Sundae: Create a sundae with layers of ice cream, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
  • Milkshake: Blend a scoop of this ice cream with milk for a thick, creamy strawberry milkshake.

How to Store No-Churn Ice Cream

Homemade no-churn ice cream can be stored in the freezer for several weeks, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness and flavor. To store it properly:

  • Use an Airtight Container: Store the ice cream in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent freezer burn and the absorption of unwanted odors.
  • Press a Layer of Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper on the Surface: This step helps prevent the formation of ice crystals on the surface of the ice cream.
  • Let it Soften Before Scooping: If the ice cream is too hard to scoop right out of the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes until it softens slightly.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe

Making ice cream at home has never been easier, thanks to the no-churn method. This strawberry ice cream, in particular, is a showstopper because of its use of roasted strawberries, which bring an unparalleled depth of flavor and natural sweetness. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the luxurious results, makes it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in homemade ice cream without the hassle of churning.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible, fun to make, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, with no artificial ingredients and the freedom to customize it to your liking, you can enjoy a healthier, fresher version of a classic dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, if you’re craving a deliciously creamy and flavorful frozen treat, this no-churn strawberry ice cream is the perfect recipe to try. You’ll love the results, and your taste buds will thank you!

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