This creamy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make at home! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll enjoy a scoop of happiness.
If you’re like me, you might find it hard to resist sneaking a taste straight from the bowl. It’s like a cozy hug in ice cream form! Perfect for sharing or just enjoying on your own.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but it won’t be as creamy.
Whole Milk: Using whole milk adds to the creaminess, but you can substitute with low-fat milk or even nut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember it might affect the texture a bit.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is key for the caramel-like flavor. You can use coconut sugar or white sugar with a bit of molasses if you’re out of brown sugar. Just mix around 1 cup of white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses to mimic that brown sugar taste!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is a must for flavor! If you love a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg as well for some extra warmth.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the overall flavor. You can opt for pure vanilla extract or imitation vanilla, but natural is always better when possible.
Why is Chilling Important in Ice Cream Making?
Chilling the mixture before churning is a simple yet crucial step. It ensures that the ice cream freezes evenly and has a smooth texture. Here’s how to make it effective:
- Make sure the mixture is covered tightly to avoid any odor absorption from the fridge.
- The longer you chill, the better! Overnight chilling gives the flavors more time to develop.
If you skip this, your ice cream can end up icy instead of creamy. So, patience is the name of the game!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus around 2 to 4 hours to chill the mixture in the fridge, and then a few hours to freeze until firm. So, all in all, plan for around 6 hours including chilling and freezing time before you can enjoy your ice cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Warm the mixture over medium heat while stirring often. You want to heat it until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is hot, but make sure it doesn’t boil!
2. Add the Cream and Flavorings:
Once the mixture is hot and the sugar is dissolved, take it off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s well blended.
3. Chill in the Fridge:
Pour the mixture into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge to chill completely. This should take about 2 to 4 hours, but if you have the time, letting it chill overnight will enhance the flavors.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
After the mixture is chilled, take it out of the fridge. Pour it into your ice cream maker and churn it according to your machine’s instructions. This usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes, and you want it to be a soft-serve consistency.
5. Freeze for Firmness:
Once churned, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until it’s firm. This helps it set to the perfect scoopable texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes to soften a bit, making it easier to scoop. Serve generous scoops in waffle cones or bowls, and you’re all set to enjoy your homemade brown sugar cinnamon ice cream!
FAQ About Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can! While whole milk adds creaminess, low-fat milk will also work. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit less rich.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can use a no-churn method. After mixing everything, pour it into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30-60 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals until it’s frozen and creamy. It may take longer to achieve the right consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last for up to 2 weeks, but for the best texture, try to consume it within a week!
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or toffee pieces once the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency during churning. Just fold gently to combine without breaking the ice cream.
