This Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream is a refreshing treat that’s super simple to make! With just a few ingredients, you’ll enjoy the sweet and tropical flavor of pineapple in every scoop.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but canned pineapple works too—just make sure it’s drained well. If you’re short on pineapple, mango might be a fun substitute for a tropical twist.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk: These create a rich texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can use half-and-half, or make it dairy-free with coconut cream and almond milk for a different flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typical here, but you can swap it for honey or agave syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener. Adjust the amount to taste.
Lemon Juice: This is optional, but it brightens the flavor! If you don’t have lemon juice, a bit of lime juice works well too.
How Do You Get Creamy Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, no worries! You can still make this delicious treat.
- After mixing the ingredients, pour the mixture into a shallow dish.
- Place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes, then stir it vigorously with a fork. This breaks up ice crystals.
- Repeat this every 30 minutes for about 2 to 3 hours until it reaches the desired creamy texture.
This method helps create a smoother consistency without the specialized equipment!
Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ice Cream:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to enhance pineapple flavor)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pineapple ice cream will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, it needs to freeze for at least 4 hours to become firm. In total, you’ll spend about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including freezing time, to enjoy this refreshing dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by blending or processing the pineapple chunks in a blender or food processor until smooth. If you’d like some little pineapple bits in your ice cream for texture, pulse a few times instead of blending completely until smooth.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple puree you just made with the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture looks well combined.
3. Churn the Mixture:
Now it’s time to churn! Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when it has a soft-serve consistency.
4. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Use a spatula to smooth the top and cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4 hours or until it’s solid and firm.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to treat yourself, scoop the pineapple ice cream into bowls. Enjoy this delicious and refreshing homemade dessert on a warm day or anytime you crave a sweet treat!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen pineapple works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw it before blending, as this will help to create a smooth puree. You may want to drain any excess liquid for the best consistency.
How Long Will the Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Your homemade pineapple ice cream can last in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve!
Can I Replace Sugar with a Sweetener Like Stevia?
Absolutely! You can use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but be sure to check the conversion rate on the package as they can be much sweeter than regular sugar. Adjust to taste to achieve the desired sweetness.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can still make this ice cream. After mixing the ingredients, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir it vigorously with a fork every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until it reaches a creamy consistency.
