To the ice cream lover in you who is also craving a homemade frozen treat that doesn’t need you to go out of your way, sit back — because we’ve got you covered. And wait until we tell you — you don’t even need an ice cream machine for this! In this article, we will guide you through the delicious world of no-churn ice cream made simply with an ice cube tray. So what are you waiting for? Read up!
No-churn ice cream has taken the dessert world by storm, offering a hassle-free alternative to traditional churned varieties. The key lies in simplicity – a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience result in a creamy, luscious frozen delight. By using an ice cube tray, we're taking this concept to a whole new level, allowing for portion control and a unique presentation.
To get started, gather the following basic ingredients:
Aside from the ice cube tray, you'll need a mixing bowl, an electric mixer or whisk, and a spatula. This uncomplicated setup ensures that you can make this delicious treat without investing in specialized equipment.
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This is the foundation of your no-churn ice cream, providing the airy and fluffy texture that makes it so irresistible.
Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream. This combination creates a sweet and flavourful base for your ice cream. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream – a light hand is key.
Now comes the fun part – adding your favorite mix-ins. Whether it's chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit, this is your chance to tailor the ice cream to your liking. The ice cube tray compartments make it easy to experiment with different flavors in each cube.
Carefully spoon or pour the ice cream mixture into the ice cube tray. Ensure even distribution to create uniform mini-ice cream cubes. This step allows for convenient portioning and a visually appealing final product.
Pop the filled ice cube tray into the freezer and let the magic happen. It typically takes a few hours for the no-churn ice cream to set. Once frozen, remove the tray and marvel at your bite-sized frozen treats. Pop them out and savor the creamy goodness.
Don't be afraid to get creative with flavors. From classic vanilla to exotic combinations like mango coconut or mint chocolate chip, the possibilities are endless.
Adjust the texture by varying the whipping time for the heavy cream. A longer whip results in a firmer ice cream, while a shorter whip yields a softer, more scoopable texture.
If you manage to resist devouring all your ice cream cubes in one sitting, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. This ensures they stay fresh and flavourful for future indulgences.