Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe
Yields: 4 quarts | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Attention, blueberry lovers! If you’ve ever dreamt of indulging in a creamy, dreamy dessert bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh blueberries, then this Blueberry Ice Cream recipe is for you. Inspired by the delightful Maine Blueberry Festival featured on the Food Network, this homemade ice cream is nothing short of extraordinary; its luscious texture and rich blueberry flavor will make you wonder why you ever settled for store-bought options. So grab your ingredients and prepare to treat yourself to a dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Description
This delightful blueberry ice cream recipe captures the essence of summer with its fresh and fruity flavor, making it a perfect treat for warm days or special occasions. The combination of fresh blueberries, rich cream, and the perfect amount of sweetness creates an irresistible dessert that is not only delicious but also satisfying. This recipe requires an ice cream machine, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Sugar | 2 cups + 3 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream | 1 quart |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh blueberries | 3 cups |
| Whole milk | To fill the can to the freeze fill line |
Nutritional Information (per serving, yields 16 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1232 |
| Total Fat | 63.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 36.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 516.9 mg |
| Sodium | 297.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 145.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Sugars | 140.4 g |
| Protein | 24.5 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Blueberries: Begin by either pureeing the blueberries in a blender or crushing them with a fork, depending on your preference for a smooth or chunky texture in your ice cream. If you choose to puree, you will create a uniform flavor throughout the ice cream; if you crush, you will have delightful bursts of blueberry goodness in each bite.
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Sweeten the Blueberries: Once you have prepared your blueberries, transfer them to a bowl and sprinkle 3 tablespoons of sugar over the top. Stir gently to combine, and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of your ice cream base. This step not only enhances the sweetness of the blueberries but also helps release their natural juices.
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Beat the Egg Yolks: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks until they are a light yellow color. This process will help to aerate the yolks, creating a lighter base for your ice cream.
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Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the 2 cups of sugar to the beaten yolks, a little at a time, continuing to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This gradual incorporation is key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
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Add the Cream: Once your egg and sugar mixture is fluffy, pour in the heavy cream and mix until fully combined. The rich cream will add a luxurious mouthfeel to your ice cream.
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Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is well mixed into the base. Please avoid imitation vanilla; using pure vanilla extract will make a significant difference in the flavor of your finished ice cream.
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Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step adds volume and a light texture to your ice cream. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate them.
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Combine with Blueberries: Gently fold the prepared blueberries into the ice cream base. If you are using fresh blueberries, you may choose to add a tiny bit of violet paste food coloring to enhance the blueberry hue, but this is optional. If you are using frozen blueberries, the natural color should be vibrant enough without any additional coloring.
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Transfer to Freezer Can: Pour the mixture into a cooled freezer can, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
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Fill with Milk: Add enough whole milk to fill the can to the freeze fill line, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while freezing.
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Freeze the Ice Cream: Finally, follow the manufacturer’s directions for your specific ice cream freezer to churn and freeze the mixture. Typically, this process will take around 30 minutes, resulting in a creamy and refreshing blueberry ice cream that will be perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade blueberry ice cream in bowls or cones, garnished with fresh blueberries or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance. This ice cream is a delightful addition to any dessert table, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite pies or cakes.
Conclusion
Indulging in this Blueberry Ice Cream will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition in your home, particularly during the hot summer months or as a delightful end to a special meal. The combination of fresh blueberries and rich cream creates a dessert that is not only easy to make but also brings joy with every creamy spoonful. So, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this perfect summer treat, reminding you of sun-soaked days and the simple pleasures of life.
With this recipe from “Love With Recipes,” you’ll never look at blueberry ice cream the same way again! Enjoy your homemade creation, and don’t forget to share with friends and family, as it’s too good to keep to yourself!
