Description
This homemade Orange Ice Cream recipe combines the vibrant flavors of fresh orange juice and zest with creamy dairy, creating a refreshing and delightful dessert perfect for warm weather. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, it requires no baking and delivers a smooth, citrusy treat that can be customized with optional add-ins like candied orange peel or white chocolate chips.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (strained)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: a few drops of orange food coloring for a more vibrant color
Instructions
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, orange zest, freshly squeezed and strained orange juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved. If you are using orange food coloring, stir it in at this point to enhance the color.
- Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled. This step is crucial for ensuring your ice cream churns properly and achieves the best texture.
- Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20 to 25 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze until firm: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until it is firm enough to scoop.
- Serve: Scoop out the ice cream into bowls or cones and serve chilled. Enjoy immediately for the best creamy texture.
Notes
- For extra texture and flavor, fold in candied orange peel or mini white chocolate chips after churning before freezing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream and almond milk in place of heavy cream and whole milk.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar quantity according to your preference before chilling.
- Use fresh, high-quality orange juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours chilling and 4 hours freezing)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
