Homemade Gingerbread Ice Cream Recipe
Introduction
This homemade gingerbread ice cream captures the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread in a creamy frozen treat. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a unique dessert twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low fat milk
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 Tbsp molasses
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, and molasses. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely and the molasses is fully incorporated.
- Step 2: Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 25 minutes until it reaches a soft ice cream consistency.
- Step 3: Transfer the soft ice cream into a container, cover it with plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer to firm up for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, toast the spices lightly before mixing to enhance their aroma.
- Substitute dark molasses with maple syrup for a milder sweetness.
- Add crushed gingerbread cookies or chocolate chips during the last minutes of churning for added texture.
Storage
Store the gingerbread ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, making scooping easier.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth and creamy to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I use whole milk instead of low fat milk?
Absolutely, whole milk will make the ice cream richer and creamier but may also increase the fat content.
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Homemade Gingerbread Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes (including freezing time)
- Yield: Approximately 1 quart (4 servings) 1x
Description
This Homemade Gingerbread Ice Cream captures the cozy, spiced flavors of gingerbread in a creamy frozen treat. Combining warm holiday spices like ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg with molasses, this recipe delivers a rich and flavorful ice cream that’s perfect for festive gatherings or comforting desserts year-round.
Ingredients
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low fat milk
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
Other Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp molasses
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, low fat milk, sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, ground cloves, freshly grated nutmeg, and molasses. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the molasses is completely incorporated into the base.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the spiced mixture into your ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this will take about 25 minutes for the mixture to reach a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Transfer the soft ice cream into a container and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up and develop a perfect scoopable texture.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground.
- Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before churning to avoid grainy texture.
- Molasses provides the classic gingerbread depth; you can adjust the amount slightly to taste.
- Allowing the ice cream to firm in the freezer overnight improves texture considerably.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can place the mixture in a shallow dish, freeze, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until firm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (churning time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Ice Cream Maker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: gingerbread ice cream, holiday dessert, spiced ice cream, homemade ice cream, winter dessert
