Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the classic flavors of creamy vanilla ice cream with the vibrant, sweet-tart essence of cherry. This dessert is perfect for summer days, special occasions, or anytime you crave a deliciously refreshing frozen treat.
The process begins with a rich and smooth vanilla ice cream base, crafted from a blend of heavy cream, whole milk, and a touch of sugar. This base is flavored with pure vanilla extract, creating a classic and creamy foundation that complements the fruity cherry swirl. The vanilla ice cream is churned to a soft-serve consistency in an ice cream maker, ensuring a smooth and airy texture.
The cherry swirl is where the magic happens. Cherries, either fresh or frozen, are simmered with a bit of sugar, lemon juice, and water to create a thick, luscious cherry syrup. This syrup is then swirled through the vanilla ice cream, adding bursts of cherry flavor and a vibrant, marbled appearance.
Once churned and swirled, the ice cream is transferred to a freezer-safe container and allowed to harden in the freezer. The result is a beautifully creamy ice cream with pockets of sweet cherry syrup running through it, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Each scoop of Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a rich, creamy vanilla base with delightful streaks of cherry syrup that provide a burst of fruity sweetness. This combination not only offers a satisfying flavor contrast but also creates an appealing visual effect with its marbled swirls of cherry red throughout the creamy vanilla.
Whether served in a bowl, cone, or as part of a sundae, Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is a treat that brings together the best of both worlds—creamy vanilla and fruity cherry—making it a favorite for anyone who enjoys a classic yet exciting dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cherry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cherry Swirl:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are softened and the mixture has thickened into a syrup, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes, or until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Incorporate the Cherry Swirl:
- Once the ice cream has churned, transfer half of it to a freezer-safe container.
- Spoon half of the cherry syrup over the ice cream, then swirl with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Add the remaining ice cream on top and swirl in the rest of the cherry syrup.
- Cover and freeze the ice cream for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Serve:
- Scoop the Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Tips:
- Use Fresh Cherries: If cherries are in season, using fresh ones will provide the best flavor and texture. If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries work well too.
- Chill the Base: For a smoother texture, chill the ice cream base in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before churning.
- Swirl Technique: To achieve a beautiful swirl, avoid overmixing the cherry syrup into the ice cream. Gently swirl it in for a marbled effect rather than mixing it thoroughly.
- Storage: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Enjoy this creamy, fruity Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream as a refreshing and delicious dessert!
