Homemade Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe – Creamy & Delicious
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade blueberry ice cream on a hot summer day. This creamy, fruity delight is packed with the natural sweetness of blueberries, balanced perfectly with the rich creaminess of dairy. Unlike store-bought versions, making blueberry ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful treat. Whether you’re an ice cream enthusiast or trying your hand at homemade frozen desserts for the first time, this blueberry ice cream recipe will become a family favorite.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American, Dessert
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 6
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Blender or food processor
- Ice cream maker
- Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for enhanced flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Mixture
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries and 1/2 cup of sugar.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and form a syrupy consistency (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and blend until smooth. For a chunkier texture, mash with a fork instead.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve if you want a smoother consistency.
- Let the blueberry mixture cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In a separate saucepan, heat the milk, remaining sugar, and salt over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and slightly thickened.
- Gradually add a small amount of the warm milk to the egg yolks while whisking constantly (to temper the eggs and prevent scrambling).
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Stir in the cooled blueberry mixture and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20–25 minutes).
Step 5: Freeze and Serve
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 2–4 hours to firm up.
- Scoop and serve your delicious homemade blueberry ice cream!
Tips for the Best Blueberry Ice Cream
- Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. Frozen blueberries work as well but may need a bit more cooking time.
- Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the blueberry flavor.
- For a creamier texture, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
- Try adding crushed cookies or white chocolate chips for extra texture.
Conclusion
This blueberry ice cream recipe is the perfect homemade treat, combining the natural sweetness of blueberries with a rich, creamy texture. It’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients, making it a great choice for any dessert lover. Whether you’re enjoying it in a cone, a bowl, or as part of a sundae, this homemade ice cream is sure to impress. Try it today and indulge in a delightful, refreshing dessert!
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.