Creamy Lemon Ice Cream Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Treat
This delightful Creamy Lemon Ice Cream recipe, originally submitted by a lady from San Angelo, Texas, brings together the tangy brightness of lemons with the lusciousness of cream cheese and whipped cream, creating a refreshing dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. Found in an old issue of Taste of Home, this recipe delivers a wonderfully creamy texture and zesty flavor that will surely become a beloved staple in your household, especially as the temperatures soar.
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Creamy Lemon Ice Cream |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4 hours |
| Total Time | 4 hours 20 minutes |
| Yield | 1 gallon |
| Servings | Varies (approximately 8-10) |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Review Count | 2 |
Ingredients
To create this delicious ice cream, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 3 (8 oz) packages |
| Sugar | 3 cups |
| Lemon gelatin | 1 (3 oz) package |
| Half-and-half cream | 2 cups |
| Lemon juice | 2/3 cup |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Optional: Food coloring | As desired |
Nutritional Information
This ice cream, while indulgent, can be enjoyed in moderation. Here are the nutritional details per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 5699.7 |
| Total Fat | 244.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 152.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 872 mg |
| Sodium | 1894.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 811.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 678.2 g |
| Protein | 96.9 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Creamy Lemon Ice Cream:
-
Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and lemon gelatin. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to thoroughly mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
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Incorporate Liquids: Gradually add the half-and-half cream, lemon juice, and pure vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat well until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous.
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Fold in Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture, ensuring not to deflate the whipped cream too much. This will help give your ice cream a light and airy texture.
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Adjust Consistency: Stir in enough milk to the mixture until it reaches a total volume of 1 gallon. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and consistency for your ice cream.
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Optional Coloring: If you wish to add a touch of color, this is the time to stir in a few drops of food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
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Freeze Mixture: Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves churning the mixture until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
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Store Extra Mixture: If you have any remaining mixture, refrigerate it until you are ready to freeze it. This will help minimize waste and allow you to enjoy even more delicious ice cream later!
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Ripen Ice Cream: Once your ice cream is churned, transfer it to a lidded container and allow it to ripen in the ice cream maker or firm up in your regular freezer for an additional 2-4 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a creamy texture.
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Serve: Before serving, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve in bowls or cones, garnished with lemon zest or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.
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Enjoy: Savor every bite of this delightful lemon ice cream, a perfect treat for hot summer days or any occasion that calls for a sweet and refreshing dessert!
This Creamy Lemon Ice Cream not only provides a satisfying end to a summer meal but also serves as a delightful pick-me-up on warm afternoons. With its vibrant flavor and creamy texture, it is sure to impress family and friends alike, creating memories that last long after the ice cream is gone. So gather your ingredients, and let the fun begin in your kitchen!
