This Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream is a sweet treat that combines creamy goodness with a warm cinnamon flavor. Perfect for those cozy nights or sunny days!
Making this ice cream is a breeze—just mix, freeze, and enjoy. I love making it for friends, and trust me, it’s a hit every time. Who can resist ice cream, right? 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to the ice cream. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use 2% milk instead. For a dairy-free option, try almond milk or oat milk, although these may change the flavor slightly.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that smooth texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, half-and-half works fine, but for a dairy-free substitute, coconut cream can add a nice richness.
Brown Sugar: The star of this recipe! It gives a deep caramel flavor. If you run out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses as a substitute. However, adjust to taste as it may vary slightly.
Ground Cinnamon: This gives that warm spice that’s perfect for fall. Freshly grated nutmeg can be an interesting alternative, or try a mix of other warm spices like allspice or cardamom if you’re feeling adventurous.
Vanilla Extract: You can’t go wrong with pure vanilla for added flavor. Avoid imitation vanilla if possible, but if you have it on hand, it will also work in a pinch!
How Do I Ensure the Ice Cream Is Creamy and Not Icey?
To get a smooth and creamy texture without ice crystals, follow these tips:
- Make sure all your ingredients are well chilled before mixing. This helps the mixture freeze faster in the ice cream maker.
- Churn the mixture in the ice cream maker just until it reaches soft-serve consistency. Over-churning can incorporate too much air and lead to a grainy texture.
- After churning, pack the ice cream tightly into the container to minimize air pockets, then cover it with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires a chill time of at least 2 hours. After churning, you’ll want to freeze it for at least 4 hours to achieve a perfect scoopable texture. In total, you’re looking at about 6 hours and 10 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the whole milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You want it warm enough for the sugar to dissolve—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Just be careful not to let it boil!
2. Add Cream and Vanilla:
Once the sugar has fully dissolved and your mixture is warm, take it off the heat. Stir in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s nice and cold.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
After chilling, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn it, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve texture.
5. Freeze for Firmness:
Transfer your freshly churned ice cream into an airtight container. Seal it tightly and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely firm.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, scoop it into cones or bowls. You can even add some extra cinnamon on top for garnish if you like! Enjoy the rich, sweet flavor of your homemade brown sugar cinnamon ice cream!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Sugar Instead of Brown Sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar. However, keep in mind that brown sugar adds a deeper caramel flavor and a slight moisture that contributes to the creaminess of the ice cream. You might want to add a touch of molasses (about 1 teaspoon) to mimic the flavor of brown sugar.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can still make ice cream without an ice cream maker. After mixing and chilling your ingredients, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir it vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency. This usually takes about 3-4 hours.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To maintain freshness and prevent ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. It should stay good for about 2-3 weeks.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of caramel or maple syrup. Just mix them in gently during the last few minutes of churning in your ice cream maker, or fold them in after churning if you’re making it by hand.
