This delightful Blue Moon ice cream is a fun treat with its bright blue color and unique fruity flavor. It’s creamy and simply melts in your mouth, perfect for warm days!
Making this ice cream is a breeze! I just mix the ingredients, freeze, and enjoy scooping it out. I can’t help but smile every time I serve it—the color is just too much fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the ice cream. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead, but expect a creamier texture with heavy cream.
Whole Milk: While whole milk gives a full flavor, you can use 2% milk for a slightly lighter option. Just remember, the creaminess might change a bit.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens your ice cream. For a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup, but they will alter the flavor slightly.
Almond Extract: This gives the ice cream a distinct flavor. If you’re nut-sensitive, you can leave it out or replace it with an additional 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract.
Lemon Zest: This is optional but adds a refreshing twist. If you don’t have lemons, a little orange zest works well, too!
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream Stays Creamy?
To achieve a nice creamy texture and avoid ice crystals in your ice cream, here are some tips to follow:
- Make sure to whisk your mixture until the sugar fully dissolves; this helps with a smooth consistency.
- Churn the ice cream in your ice cream maker until it reaches soft-serve texture. Over-churning can lead to icy ice cream.
- If you choose to add corn syrup, it helps prevent ice crystals and keeps the texture smooth. It’s optional but a great addition!
- Cover the ice cream well in the freezer to minimize the formation of ice crystals.
With these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully smooth and delightful Blue Moon ice cream to enjoy! 😋
Easy Homemade Blue Moon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Blue food coloring (about 10-15 drops, to achieve bright blue color)
- 2 tbsp corn syrup (optional, for smoother texture)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for added fruity note)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blue Moon ice cream requires about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus about 20-25 minutes to churn in an ice cream maker. After that, don’t forget to freeze it for at least 4 hours until it’s nice and firm. Total time to enjoy your homemade ice cream will be around 4 hours and 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by gathering a medium bowl. Whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves completely. This ensures a sweet and creamy base for your ice cream!
2. Add Flavors:
Next, add in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest if you’re using it. Stir everything together nicely to blend those amazing flavors.
3. Add the Blue Color:
Now for the fun part! Slowly add the blue food coloring, starting with about 10 drops. Stir the mixture and keep adding drops until you reach the bright blue shade you want. Watching the color change is always exciting!
4. Smooth It Out:
If you want your ice cream to be super smooth, add the corn syrup now and mix well until everything is blended evenly. It helps prevent ice crystals, making your ice cream creamier.
5. Churn Away:
Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually around 20-25 minutes—until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. It should look fluffy and ready to set!
6. Freeze to Firm:
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Cover it well and pop it into the freezer for at least 4 hours, so it can firm up nicely. This waiting time is the hardest part!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Blue Moon ice cream is ready, scoop it into bowls or cones and serve. Enjoy that creamy, colorful delight and impress your friends and family with your fantastic homemade treat! 🍦💙
FAQ About Easy Homemade Blue Moon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. For the best results, stick with whole milk if you can!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can still make this ice cream by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish and freezing it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within 2-3 weeks for optimal flavor and texture, but be sure to seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk). Sweeten with a suitable vegan sugar or syrup, and the ice cream will still be delicious and vibrant!
