This Easy Homemade Key Lime Pie Ice Cream is a refreshing treat that combines the tangy flavor of key limes with creamy goodness. It’s like enjoying a slice of pie, but in ice cream form!
Making this ice cream is super fun! Just mix the ingredients, freeze, and you’re all set. I love topping it with whipped cream—it’s the perfect ending to a hot day! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the ice cream its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with coconut cream. Just remember, the flavor will change a bit but still be delicious.
Half-and-Half: This is a blend of milk and cream. If you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. This will keep the texture smooth and creamy.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that tangy flavor! If key limes are hard to find, you can use regular limes, but it might be a bit less zingy. I personally like using a mix of both for that unique taste.
Graham Crackers: They add that classic crust flavor. If you want to make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. Crushed cookies like Oreo or digestive biscuits can also work for a fun twist!
How Do You Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks?
Whipping the cream properly is crucial for the ice cream’s texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your heavy cream is cold. Cold cream whips better!
- Use a clean, dry bowl and beaters. This helps the cream whip up quicker.
- Start on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high. This prevents splatters and helps incorporate air properly.
- Watch closely! Stiff peaks form when the cream holds its shape but isn’t grainy. Stop as soon as you reach stiff peaks!
With these tips, your ice cream will turn out creamy and luscious every time! Enjoy making this refreshing dessert! 🍦
Easy Homemade Key Lime Pie Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup half-and-half, cold
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- Optional: pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Key Lime Pie Ice Cream will take about 15 minutes of preparation time, followed by at least 6 hours in the freezer to allow it to firm up properly. It’s a simple process you can easily fit into your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This means it will hold its shape well. Once done, set it aside carefully.
2. Combine the Mixture:
In another bowl, add the cold half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if you like. Mix these ingredients together until they are smooth and well combined.
3. Fold in the Whipped Cream:
Now it’s time to combine the two mixtures! Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to keep the mixture airy and fluffy—this will make your ice cream light and creamy!
4. Add the Graham Crackers:
Carefully fold the crushed graham crackers into the mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed. This adds the delightful pie crust flavor to your ice cream!
5. Freeze It:
Transfer the creamy mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula to make it nice and even. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent any freezing issues. Place it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or until it is firmly set.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, take it out of the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly—this makes scooping easier! Then, scoop it into bowls and garnish with some extra key lime zest for a fresh flavor boost.
Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and crunchy-in-every-bite homemade Key Lime Pie Ice Cream! It’s perfect for a warm day or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Whipped Topping Instead of Whipping Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute with an equal amount of store-bought whipped topping. Just fold it into the key lime mixture gently, and you’ll skip the whipping step!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
You can store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. However, for the best texture and flavor, try to enjoy it within a week, as it may start to lose its creaminess over time.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and half-and-half with coconut cream and almond milk, or any non-dairy creamer. Use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative to maintain the creaminess.
What Other Flavors Can I Add?
You can mix things up by adding fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. Alternatively, try adding some chocolate chips or a swirl of your favorite sauce for a fun variation!
