Imagine a dessert so effortlessly delicious that it requires zero churning, minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor explosion! This lemon no-churn ice cream is your ticket to cooling down with a tangy, sweet treat that's impossibly easy to make. Whether you're a novice baker or a dessert enthusiast, this recipe will transform your summer afternoons into a zesty, creamy paradise that'll have everyone begging for your secret.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Chill a large mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 15 minutes before starting to ensure maximum cream volume.
- In the chilled bowl, pour the heavy cream and begin whipping at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, approximately 3-4 minutes. The cream should hold its shape and stand up when the whisk is lifted.
- In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gently whisk these ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
- Carefully fold the lemon mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Use a gentle folding motion to maintain the cream's light and airy texture, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed without deflating the whipped cream.
- Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, ensuring no air can enter.
- Place in the freezer and allow to set for 6-8 hours or overnight until firm.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Chill your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand - this is crucial for achieving those perfect, fluffy whipped cream peaks.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Bottled juice just won't compare!
- Fold the mixture gently to preserve the air in the whipped cream - this ensures a light, creamy texture.
- For extra indulgence, consider adding a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or a drizzle of lemon curd before freezing.
- Always cover the ice cream tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming and to maintain its smooth consistency.
- If you want a more intense lemon flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make scooping easier and creamier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 110mg
