Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Step 4: Combine the Strawberry Puree and Cream Mixture

Once the vanilla bean has infused the cream mixture, remove the pod and discard it. Add the strawberry puree to the cream mixture and stir gently until everything is fully combined.

Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or, for the best results, overnight. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will meld.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream

Once the ice cream base has chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. As it churns, the mixture will thicken and become smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Freeze and Serve

Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to an airtight container. For a firmer consistency, freeze the ice cream for an additional 2-3 hours before serving.

When ready to serve, scoop the creamy Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

• Use Fresh Strawberries: The key to a flavorful ice cream is using the freshest strawberries possible. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess water in the base.
• Customize the Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the ice cream by adding more or less sugar depending on the sweetness of the strawberries and your personal preference.
• Make it Swirly: For a fun twist, swirl in some strawberry jam or a caramel sauce during the last few minutes of churning. This will create delicious pockets of extra sweetness in every bite.
• Add Texture: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped chocolate, crushed nuts, or cookie pieces into the ice cream once it has finished churning, then freeze it for a bit longer to set.
• No Ice Cream Maker? No Problem!: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream. Simply pour the chilled mixture into a shallow container, cover it, and freeze. Every 30-45 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency (this process may take 3-4 hours).

Health Benefits of Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

While this ice cream is indulgent and delicious, it also offers some health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Vitamin C Boost: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for skin health, immune function, and overall wellness.
• Calcium and Protein: The heavy cream and whole milk in this ice cream provide a good amount of calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a crowd-pleaser that brings the classic flavors of strawberry and vanilla together in a creamy, dreamy dessert. The fresh strawberries provide a natural sweetness and fruity burst that pairs perfectly with the smooth, fragrant vanilla. Homemade ice cream is always a treat, and making it yourself ensures it’s both fresh and customizable.

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer parties, or just when you need a comforting dessert to unwind with after a long day. Serve it in a bowl, on a cone, or alongside a warm piece of pie for a classic dessert combination that never goes out of style.

Conclusion

If you love ice cream and want a homemade treat that combines the best of summer flavors, Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a must-try. With its smooth, creamy texture and the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries and vanilla, it’s a dessert that’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Plus, you can feel good knowing you’ve made it from scratch with simple, natural ingredients.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a scoop of this refreshing, indulgent ice cream—perfect for any occasion!