This Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream is a sweet and creamy treat that’s super refreshing! Just blend fresh pineapple with cream and a few other simple ingredients to make it. 🍍
I love how quickly this ice cream comes together! It’s perfect for hot days and you can even add some chunks of pineapple for extra fun. Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one scoop! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks give the best flavor. You can also use canned pineapple in juice, but be sure to drain it well. I enjoy using a ripe pineapple for natural sweetness!
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Whole milk works great for creaminess. You can use any type of milk including almond or oat milk for a healthier, vegan alternative. Just remember it might change the flavor slightly.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is what I use, but you could replace it with honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. For a lower-sugar version, try a sugar substitute like stevia.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the flavor of the ice cream. If you want a tropical twist, consider using coconut extract instead!
How Do I Get Smooth Ice Cream Without Ice Crystals?
To achieve creamy ice cream, the churning process is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Chill your mixture before pouring it into the ice cream maker. This helps it churn better.
- Keep the ice cream machine bowl in the freezer for at least 24 hours for optimal performance.
- Don’t overfill the ice cream maker—leave some space for the mixture to expand as it churns.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mix into a container and stir it every 30 minutes for the first few hours to break up ice crystals.
These steps will help you achieve that smooth, creamy texture! Enjoy your homemade pineapple ice cream! 🍦
Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (plus extra for mixing in, optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pineapple ice cream will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, you’ll need to wait at least 4 hours for it to freeze completely. In total, plan for about 4 hours and 35 minutes, including freezing time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pineapple Puree:
Start by placing your fresh pineapple chunks in a blender or food processor. Blend until you have a smooth puree. This will be the base of your ice cream and gives it that delicious pineapple flavor!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together your pineapple puree, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary; remember, the cold will dull the sweetness a bit!
3. Churn in the Ice Cream Maker:
Pour the delicious pineapple mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, and you’ll notice it fluffing up as it churns!
4. Add Pineapple Chunks (Optional):
If you want some extra texture and bursts of flavor, add a handful of small pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of churning. This way, they’ll get evenly distributed without getting too mushy!
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Once churned, transfer your homemade ice cream to an airtight container. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to firm up fully. This is the hardest part—you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready, scoop out your creamy and refreshing pineapple ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy the delicious tropical flavor and feel like you’re on a sunny beach! 🍍🍦
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture in your ice cream. The flavor may be slightly different, but it can work in a pinch!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk. It will give your ice cream a delicious tropical twist! 🌴
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 container. Freeze it for about 2 hours, then stir every 30 minutes for an additional 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches your desired consistency.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Your homemade pineapple ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to soften it up a bit!
