This creamy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is super easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s perfect for hot days or anytime you want something sweet.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of cinnamon mixed with sweet brown sugar? I often catch myself sneaking a scoop straight from the tub. It’s just that good! 😋
What I love most is how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, freeze, and enjoy. It’s a perfect dessert that makes you feel like a kitchen pro without the hard work!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives this ice cream a rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use 2% milk or even almond milk. Just know the texture may be less creamy.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is essential for that smooth texture. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream can be a great substitute. It’ll add a coconut flavor, but it’s super creamy!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is perfect for this recipe, but you can use dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup would work, just reduce the quantity slightly, as they’re sweeter.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth to the flavor. If you want to switch things up, you can use cinnamon sticks while heating the mixture. Just remove them before chilling.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for flavor. If you don’t have it, vanilla essence will work too. In a pinch, a tablespoon of maple syrup adds nice flavor as well!
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream Has the Right Texture?
Getting the texture just right is often one of the biggest challenges. Here’s how to ensure your ice cream is creamy and delicious:
- Heat the milk and cream carefully, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Avoid boiling to keep the mixture from curdling.
- Chill your mixture before churning. The cold mixture churns better, resulting in less ice crystals.
- Don’t skip the freezing step after churning! This solidifies the ice cream and enhances the texture.
- When you’re churning, keep an eye on the consistency. It should be like soft serve when done—don’t leave it for too long!
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect scoop of ice cream every time! Enjoy your homemade treat! 🍦
How to Make Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This delicious ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours for chilling, and an additional 4 hours to freeze after churning. Overall, plan for about 6 hours to enjoy your ice cream, but most of that time is waiting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
Start by pouring the whole milk, heavy cream, and brown sugar into a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat while stirring occasionally. You want to make sure the brown sugar fully dissolves to create a smooth base, but be careful not to let it boil.
2. Whisk In Flavorings:
Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm, remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well mixed together. This is where the magic happens—your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Chill the Mixture:
After mixing, let the mixture cool down to room temperature. Once cool, cover it and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. A well-chilled mixture is key to creamy ice cream!
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
When you’re ready to make the ice cream, pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20-25 minutes) until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. It will fluff up beautifully!
5. Freeze Until Firm:
After churning, transfer your soft ice cream into an airtight container. Spread it out evenly before sealing. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to firm up. Waiting can be tough, but it’s worth it for that perfect scoop!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your ice cream is fully frozen, scoop it into cones or bowls and enjoy the homemade goodness of brown sugar and cinnamon! It’s a delightful treat that will surely impress your friends and family.
This recipe yields a smooth, creamy ice cream with cozy cinnamon and deep caramel notes from the brown sugar—a simple yet delicious homemade treat. Happy scooping! 🍦
FAQ for Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but keep in mind that the ice cream may be less creamy. For the best texture, try to stick with whole milk or at least 2% milk for a richer taste.
How Do I Prevent Ice Crystals in My Ice Cream?
To help prevent ice crystals, make sure your mixture is well-chilled before churning, and churn it just until it reaches the soft-serve consistency. Also, storing it in an airtight container and minimizing air exposure will keep it smooth!
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! If you want to add mix-ins, fold them in gently after churning the ice cream. Just be sure they’re added before transferring to the freezing container for the best distribution!
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure to press a piece of parchment paper against the surface of the ice cream before sealing it to minimize air contact, which can help maintain texture. Enjoy within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor!
