No-Churn Ice Cream is the easiest way to make creamy, homemade frozen desserts—no ice cream maker required. With just a few ingredients and a bit of mixing, you can whip up this delicious Creamy Dessert in virtually any flavor you like. Whether you’re making it for a party, family treat, or just because, these recipes are simple, versatile, and seriously satisfying.
Why You’ll Love No-Churn Ice Cream
No-Churn Ice Cream is a standout Creamy Dessert:
- No Equipment Needed: Skip the ice cream maker for fuss-free prep.
- Quick to Make: Just 15 minutes of hands-on time.
- Silky Smooth: Rivals traditional ice cream’s rich texture.
- Endlessly Customizable: Mix in your favorite flavors or toppings.
- I love making this Creamy Dessert with my kids—it’s fun and always a hit!
Ingredients for No-Churn Ice Cream
Here’s what you’ll need for No-Churn Ice Cream (serves 8):
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Ingredient Tips:
- Heavy Cream: Cold for best whipping; use full-fat for richness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and creamy texture; don’t use evaporated milk.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure extract for authentic flavor; adjust for other extracts if desired.
- Salt: Enhances flavors without making it salty.
- Mix-Ins: See Variations for ideas like chocolate chips or fruit.
Directions for No-Churn Ice Cream
Let’s create this delightful No-Churn Ice Cream!
Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, I beat 2 cups cold heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3–5 minutes.
Mix Condensed Milk Base
In a separate bowl, I combine 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, stirring until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
I gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture using a spatula, keeping the mixture light and airy.
Add Flavorings
I stir in any desired mix-ins or flavorings (see Variations below) until evenly distributed.
Freeze
I transfer the mixture to a 9×5-inch loaf pan or freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. I freeze for 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results, until firm.
Serve
I let the ice cream soften at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping and serving.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Freeze Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: ~6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 35g carbs, 5g protein, 20g fat, 0g fiber
Variations
- Chocolate Bliss: Mix in ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder or ½ cup melted chocolate.
- Strawberry Swirl: Fold in 1 cup pureed strawberries for a fruity Creamy Dessert.
- Mint Chip: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract and ¾ cup mini chocolate chips.
- Peanut Butter Dream: Swirl in ½ cup creamy peanut butter.
- Cookies & Cream: Stir in 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
Serving Ideas:
- Scoop into cones or bowls, topping with sprinkles or hot fudge.
- Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for a festive touch.
- Pair with warm brownies for an indulgent dessert combo.
- Garnish with crushed nuts or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
Storage
I store No-Churn Ice Cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks to maintain its creamy texture. I cover tightly to prevent ice crystals and keep it in the coldest part of the freezer. Before serving, I let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for easier scooping. Reheating is not needed—just serve directly from the freezer after softening slightly.
FAQs :
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for No-Churn Ice Cream?
No, I use heavy cream for whipping to achieve the Creamy Dessert texture; milk won’t work.
Is No-Churn Ice Cream as creamy as traditional ice cream?
Yes, I find the whipped cream and condensed milk make it just as smooth and rich.
Can I make No-Churn Ice Cream dairy-free?
I swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Do I need to stir No-Churn Ice Cream while it freezes?
No, I just freeze it without stirring for a hassle-free Creamy Dessert.
Can I double the No-Churn Ice Cream recipe?
Yes, I double the ingredients and use a larger container to freeze it successfully.
More Summer Dessert Ideas You’ll Love
- Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- Strawberry Shortcake Cake (with sponge cake)
- Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Sweet, Simple Deligh
Conclusion
No-Churn Ice Cream is a simple and fun way to create homemade ice cream without the hassle of machines or complicated steps. With just a few ingredients and your favorite mix-ins, you can make a dessert that’s better than store-bought and totally customizable. Whether you’re going classic or creative, it’s a frozen treat you’ll make again and again.
No-Churn Ice Cream Recipes
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix-ins of choice e.g., chocolate chips, fruit, cookie pieces, caramel swirls
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with vanilla extract and any desired flavorings or mix-ins.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container and smooth the top.
- Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
- Scoop and serve as desired with additional toppings.
Notes
- You can create endless flavor combinations by switching out the vanilla and mix-ins.
- For chocolate ice cream, mix in 1/2 cup cocoa powder with the condensed milk.
- Fruit purées or jam ribbons make great natural flavor additions.
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