Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream Recipe – Creamy & Refreshing
If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, this Pineapple Ice Cream Recipe is a must-try! Bursting with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh pineapple, this creamy delight is perfect for hot summer days or any time you crave a refreshing dessert. Unlike store-bought options, homemade pineapple ice cream is free from artificial preservatives and gives you full control over the ingredients. Whether you use an ice cream maker or opt for a no-churn version, this recipe guarantees a luscious, smooth texture with a fruity punch. Let’s dive into this tropical treat!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 4 hours (for freezing)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Cuisine: International
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: 220 kcal
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
- Freezer-safe container
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (enhances flavor and prevents crystallization)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 egg yolks (for extra creaminess, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Puree
- In a blender or food processor, add the pineapple chunks and blend until smooth.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the puree to remove fibrous bits.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- If using egg yolks for a custard base, whisk them in a separate bowl.
- Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly.
- Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Stir the heavy cream into the cooled milk mixture.
- Fold in the pineapple puree and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream (If Using Ice Cream Maker)
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker.
- Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes) until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture.
Step 5: No-Churn Method (Without Ice Cream Maker)
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for 1 hour, then stir well with a fork or whisk to break up ice crystals.
- Repeat every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours, until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones.
- Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade tropical treat!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Sugar: 25g
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free version: Substitute coconut milk and coconut cream for the dairy ingredients.
- For extra flavor: Add shredded coconut or a splash of rum for a piña colada twist.
- For a lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
This Pineapple Ice Cream Recipe is the perfect homemade dessert for anyone who loves tropical flavors. Easy to make and incredibly refreshing, it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of summer year-round!
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.