Description
This refreshing Watermelon Ice Cream blends the natural sweetness and hydrating qualities of fresh watermelon with creamy heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk for a luscious frozen treat. Enhanced optionally with lime juice for a citrusy twist, it’s a perfect summer dessert that combines easy preparation with delightful flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Watermelon Ice Cream Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lime juice (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon puree: In a blender or food processor, blend the fresh watermelon until smooth. You should have about 2 ½ cups of watermelon puree. For a smoother texture, optionally strain the puree to remove any pulp.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the watermelon puree, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add lime juice: If desired, stir in 2 tablespoons of lime juice to enhance the watermelon flavor with a hint of citrusy brightness.
- Chill the mixture: Refrigerate the combined mixture for at least 2 hours. This chilling process helps develop a creamier ice cream texture when churned.
- Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn following your machine’s instructions, typically around 20-25 minutes, until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze and set: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze it for at least 4 hours, or until it becomes firm and scoopable.
- Serve: Scoop the set watermelon ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy a refreshing, creamy dessert.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain the watermelon puree before mixing.
- Lime juice is optional but adds a nice citrus kick to balance the sweetness.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow container, stirring every 30 minutes until firm to reduce ice crystals.
- Ensure the watermelons are ripe and sweet for best flavor.
- This ice cream is best enjoyed within one week of freezing for optimal taste and texture.
