Effortless Lemon Ice Cream

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Instructions:

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start by whipping the heavy cream. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will only take a few minutes, so keep an eye on it to avoid over-beating. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy, with a smooth consistency that holds its shape when lifted with a spatula.

Step 2: Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk and Lemon Juice

In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice. If you want to amp up the lemon flavor, feel free to add the zest of one or two lemons. The zest adds a bright, aromatic touch that complements the citrusy tartness of the lemon juice. For a little extra depth of flavor, a teaspoon of vanilla extract can also be added, though it’s optional.

Whisk the lemon juice mixture together until fully combined.

Step 3: Fold Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Gently fold the lemon mixture into the whipped cream, using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much—your goal is to keep the mixture light and airy. Fold until everything is fully incorporated, and the mixture has a smooth, creamy texture.

Step 4: Freeze the Ice Cream

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, pie dish, or any other freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer.

Let the ice cream freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is firm and scoopable.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your effortless lemon ice cream is frozen, it’s ready to serve. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness. For an extra touch, you can garnish each serving with a few extra lemon zest shavings, fresh mint leaves, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Why This Lemon Ice Cream is So Special

What makes this recipe so irresistible is its simplicity and the vibrant, fresh flavor it delivers. The heavy whipping cream makes the ice cream luxuriously creamy, while the sweetened condensed milk provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemons. It’s not overly sweet—just the perfect level of tangy citrus that will have you coming back for more.

The fact that this recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker makes it even more appealing. With just a few ingredients and some chill time in the freezer, you can enjoy a refreshing homemade dessert without any special equipment or complicated steps. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra lemons, especially during the summer months when they’re in season.

Variations and Tips:

• Add-ins: You can easily customize this lemon ice cream by adding crushed graham crackers, lemon curd, or even a handful of crushed berries or white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Lemon Lovers: If you love an even more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest or juice slightly.
• No Whipping Cream? You can also try substituting the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option that still delivers that creamy texture.
• Make it a Lemon Swirl: To create a fun swirl effect, add a spoonful of lemon curd or lemon jam to the mixture before freezing, and gently swirl it in.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Effortless Lemon Ice Cream is not only a perfect summer dessert, but it’s also ideal for any occasion where you need a quick and easy treat. Whether it’s a BBQ, a picnic, or simply a family night at home, this ice cream is guaranteed to impress with its creamy texture and refreshing lemon flavor. Plus, since it’s no-churn, it’s one less thing to worry about when planning your next gathering.

Final Thoughts

Homemade ice cream doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With this Effortless Lemon Ice Cream recipe, you get all the refreshing taste of a classic lemon ice cream without any of the fuss. It’s easy, quick, and incredibly satisfying—everything you want in a summer dessert. Give it a try, and you’ll have a cool, creamy treat to beat the heat and brighten any day.