There’s nothing quite like the rich, tangy, and slightly sweet taste of fresh blackberries turned into a luscious homemade dessert. This Blackberry Ice Cream Recipe is a summer favorite, offering the perfect balance of creaminess and natural fruit flavor. Whether you’re making it for a backyard BBQ, a family dessert, or simply treating yourself on a hot day, this recipe will become a go-to in your ice cream collection.
Homemade ice cream has the added benefit of being free from preservatives and artificial flavors, allowing the boldness of blackberries to truly shine. This recipe uses fresh or frozen blackberries, heavy cream, and simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. With minimal effort and some patience, you’ll be rewarded with a decadent and creamy blackberry ice cream that’s as good as any premium store-bought version—if not better!
Blackberry Ice Cream Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: American, Dessert
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Course: Dessert, Frozen Treat
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Active Time: 20 minutes
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Resting/Chilling Time: 4–6 hours (or overnight)
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Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes (includes chilling and freezing)
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Servings: 6–8 servings
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Calories (per serving): Approx. 260 kcal
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 260
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Fat: 17g
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Saturated Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 26g
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Sugar: 24g
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Protein: 2g
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Fiber: 2g
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Cholesterol: 55mg
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Sodium: 30mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and measurements.
Equipment Needed
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Blender or food processor
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Fine-mesh sieve
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Medium saucepan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Ice cream maker (or loaf pan for no-churn version)
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Spatula
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Airtight freezer-safe container
Ingredients
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2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (thawed if frozen)
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Optional: 1 tablespoon corn syrup or honey (for smoother texture)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Blackberry Puree
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In a blender or food processor, add the blackberries and blend until smooth.
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Pour the blackberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove seeds. Use a spoon to press the puree through, extracting as much juice as possible.
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Stir in the lemon juice and 1/4 cup of sugar. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
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In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, whole milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved (do not boil).
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Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. If using corn syrup or honey, add it at this stage.
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Add the blackberry puree to the cream mixture and mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
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Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20–25 minutes).
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Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it into an airtight freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
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Freeze the churned ice cream for at least 2–4 hours until firm.
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Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping and serving.
Tips & Variations
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No Ice Cream Maker?
Pour the chilled mixture into a metal loaf pan, cover tightly, and freeze. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for the first 2–3 hours to break up ice crystals for a creamier texture. -
Swirls or Add-ins:
Add a swirl of blackberry jam or chunks of white chocolate during the last few minutes of churning. -
Sweetness Adjustment:
Taste the blackberry puree before mixing. If your berries are particularly tart, you may need to add a bit more sugar. -
For Vegan Version:
Use full-fat coconut milk or a mix of almond and coconut cream instead of dairy, and replace sugar with maple syrup or agave.
Serving Suggestions
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Scoop into waffle cones or bowls.
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Top with fresh blackberries and a sprig of mint.
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Pair with a warm brownie or shortcake.
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Drizzle with blackberry coulis or melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Ice Cream Recipe
This recipe brings together the freshness of seasonal fruit with the luxurious texture of homemade ice cream. It’s perfect for fruit lovers, summer gatherings, and anyone who appreciates classic frozen desserts with a twist. Unlike commercial brands, you have full control over sweetness, texture, and flavor depth.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying homemade ice cream for the first time, this Blackberry Ice Cream Recipe is a delightful treat that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Making your own ice cream at home isn’t just fun—it’s also healthier and often more flavorful. This recipe celebrates the natural sweetness and bold color of blackberries in a way that’s both refreshing and indulgent. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a creamy, fruity dessert that’s perfect for sunny days or anytime you’re craving something special.
So go ahead—grab a basket of blackberries and churn up your own batch of this dreamy dessert. Once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought ice cream the same way again!

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.