Description
Easy, refreshing no-churn lemon ice cream! Combines sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and fresh lemon for a bright and creamy homemade treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups (1 pint) heavy cream, cold
- 1/2 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (from about 3–4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup Limoncello liqueur (for extra lemon flavor and to help prevent ice crystals)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Base: In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. If using Limoncello, stir it in gently. Taste and adjust lemon zest if needed. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate large bowl (or stand mixer bowl), pour in cold heavy cream. Using an electric mixer, whip on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- Combine and Freeze: Gently fold the lemon mixture into the whipped cream until evenly distributed. Do not overmix. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap (pressing it onto the surface).
- Freeze: Place the container in the freezer and freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until solid.
- Serve: Remove from freezer and let sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or cones. Garnish with extra lemon zest, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest!
- Ensure the heavy cream is very cold for proper whipping.
- Be gentle when folding the lemon mixture into the whipped cream to maintain airiness.
- Freezing for at least 6 hours is crucial for the ice cream to set properly.
- For a smoother texture, add 1 tablespoon of vodka or other clear alcohol before freezing.
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- If the ice cream is too tart, add more sweetened condensed milk. If it’s too sweet, add more lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes