This easy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is creamy and sweet with a hint of warmth from cinnamon. It’s perfect for a hot day or any time you want a sweet treat!
I love how simple this recipe is; you just mix, churn, and freeze! It’s a delightful twist on regular ice cream that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it makes my house smell amazing while it freezes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the texture won’t be as rich.
Whole Milk: Whole milk balances the cream, but 2% or even almond milk can work if you prefer a non-dairy option. Just keep in mind the final texture will change a bit.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel-like flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar, but it won’t have that deep taste. You might also use coconut sugar for a unique twist!
Ground Cinnamon: This spice is key for that warm flavor, but you can swap in nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different taste, depending on your preference.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla gives an amazing depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, consider using vanilla bean paste or even maple extract in a pinch.
How Do You Ensure Smooth Ice Cream Without Ice Crystals?
The key to silky smooth ice cream is the churning process and freezing technique. Churning adds air into the ice cream, making it light and fluffy while helping to keep ice crystals small. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your ice cream maker bowl is fully frozen—usually overnight in the freezer.
- Don’t overfill the ice cream maker; leave space for expansion.
- Once churning is done, transfer the ice cream to a container and press it down to eliminate any air pockets before sealing.
- Freeze for the recommended time for the best texture. The longer you freeze it, the firmer it becomes!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation. After that, it needs to churn for about 20-25 minutes in the ice cream maker. Finally, let it freeze for at least 2 hours until it’s firm. In total, expect about 2 hours and 35 minutes from start to finish, including the freeze time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure they are mixed well so the flavors can blend perfectly. This step is the foundation of your ice cream’s delicious flavor!
2. Adding the Liquid:
Next, pour in the whole milk. Keep whisking until the sugar and cinnamon are completely dissolved in the milk. This may take a minute or so. Then, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is combined. You should have a nice, creamy mixture at this point.
3. Churning the Ice Cream:
Now it’s time to pour your mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn it according to your machine’s instructions, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You want to achieve a soft-serve consistency. Keep an eye on it; you’re just a few minutes away from ice cream!
4. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Once the ice cream has churned to a soft consistency, it’s time to transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Press it down firmly, cover it, and pop it into the freezer for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up. This step is crucial for that perfect scoop!
5. Serving the Ice Cream:
After a couple of hours, your ice cream should be ready to enjoy! Scoop it into cones or bowls, and indulge in the creamy, cinnamon-spiced goodness. It’s perfect by itself or paired with your favorite dessert!
FAQ for Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can absolutely use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute for whole milk! Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess of the ice cream, but it will still taste delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
You can store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To keep it fresh, cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the container to minimize air exposure!
What Should I Do If My Ice Cream Is Too Hard After Freezing?
If your ice cream is too hard to scoop after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help soften it up and make scooping easier!
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even pieces of cookies in the last few minutes of churning. Just be sure they are small enough to blend well with the ice cream!
