This easy homemade ice cream with fresh Georgia peaches is a summer delight! Creamy and sweet, it captures the juicy goodness of ripe peaches in every scoop.
Making it is as fun as eating it! Just mix, churn, and freeze. I like to enjoy mine on a warm day, sun in my face, and a big scoop in my cone. It’s pure happiness! ☀️🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Georgia Peaches: The star of this recipe! Fresh, ripe Georgia peaches provide the best flavor. If you can’t find them, use any juicy peaches or even frozen ones, but make sure they’re unsweetened for the best taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used here, but you could substitute it with honey or agave syrup. Just adjust based on your sweetness preference since these may be sweeter than sugar.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds brightness and balances the sweetness. If you don’t have lemon juice, lime juice can work as a fun alternative, or even a splash of vinegar for tang.
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk: These create that rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a milk alternative like almond or oat milk, though this will change the texture slightly.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Peach Flavor?
The key step is macerating the peaches. This not only brings out their natural juices but also intensifies their sweet flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix diced peaches with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Let them sit for 15 minutes. You’ll notice how they start to release their juices!
- Lightly mash half of the mixture to enhance flavor while leaving chunks for that delightful texture in your ice cream.
Taking time with this step makes a big difference in your end result, ensuring a burst of fresh peach goodness in every scoop! Enjoy your homemade treat! 🍑
Easy Homemade Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups fresh Georgia peaches, peeled and diced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then a little more time for churning and freezing. You’ll spend about 25 minutes to churn the ice cream in an ice cream maker and then let it freeze for at least 4 hours for the perfect texture. So, plan for around 4 hours and 40 minutes until you can enjoy your creamy peach delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by peeling and dicing your fresh Georgia peaches. In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches with 1/4 cup of sugar and the lemon juice. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This step, called macerating, helps to draw out the natural juices and enhances the peach flavor.
2. Mash and Mix:
After letting the peaches sit, take a fork or a potato masher and lightly mash about half of the peaches. You want to release some of their juices while still keeping some chunks for a lovely texture in your ice cream.
3. Whisk the Cream Mixture:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved into the mixture.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, stir the prepared peach mixture into the cream mixture. Make sure everything is blended well so that every scoop of ice cream is packed with delicious peach flavor!
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the entire mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, until the mixture thickens and softens into a creamy ice cream.
6. Freeze to Firm Up:
Once it’s churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze it for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm and ready to scoop.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After freezing, your creamy Georgia peach ice cream is ready! Scoop it into dessert glasses or cones, and you’re set for a sweet treat. Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!
FAQ: Easy Homemade Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using frozen peaches, make sure they are unsweetened and fully thawed before proceeding with the recipe. Drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery ice cream texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this peach ice cream dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk (or another non-dairy milk of your choice). You may need to adjust the sweetness, as non-dairy milks can vary in flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover peach ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep well for about 2-3 weeks. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Ice Cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of caramel during the last few minutes of churning. This adds extra flavor and texture to your ice cream!
