This Easy No-Churn Peanut Butter Ice Cream is a dream for peanut butter lovers! It’s creamy, sweet, and super simple to make without any ice cream machine.
Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking bites right from the tub! Just mix, freeze, and you’re ready to enjoy this tasty treat anytime. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives your ice cream its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipping cream instead, but the texture won’t be as rich.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: It adds sweetness and creaminess without needing to churn it. If you prefer a dairy-free version, look for coconut condensed milk as a substitute.
Peanut Butter: I love creamy peanut butter for its smooth consistency. Chunky peanut butter also works great if you like those little nutty bits in your ice cream. For a nut-free option, sunflower butter can be used.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, a splash of maple syrup can add a nice twist!
How Do You Perfectly Fold Ingredients Without Deflating Cream?
Folding is an essential technique when combining whipped cream with denser mixtures. The goal is to keep that fluffy texture! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by adding a small amount of the whipped cream to the peanut butter mixture.
- Use a spatula to gently lift and fold, bringing the mixture from the bottom of the bowl over the top.
- Repeat this gently! The more you mix, the more air you lose. Stop as soon as it looks combined with slight streaks.
With a gentle touch, your ice cream will have a light and airy texture that’s just perfect!
How to Make Easy No-Churn Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth or chunky based on preference)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of salt to enhance flavor
- Optional garnish: chopped peanuts or peanut butter drizzles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful peanut butter ice cream recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a chilling time of at least 6 hours or overnight. So, it’s mostly hands-off time in the freezer. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or to prep in advance for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. This might take a couple of minutes. You want it to be light and fluffy!
2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract. If you like, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed—no lumps here!
3. Fold the Mixtures Together:
Now, gently fold the peanut butter mixture into the whipped cream. Use a spatula and carefully combine them without deflating the whipped cream too much. You can fold until just combined, and it’s okay if there are a few streaks of cream left—this gives it a pretty marbled look!
4. Transfer to Container:
Pour your ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container or a loaf pan. Smooth the top with your spatula. If you want, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top or create some peanut butter swirls for extra flair!
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Cover your container with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to dig in, take the ice cream out and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop. Give it a try in bowls or cups, and maybe add some extra chopped peanuts or a drizzle of peanut butter on top. Enjoy your deliciously creamy, homemade no-churn peanut butter ice cream!
This recipe yields a smooth, rich peanut buttery ice cream without the need for an ice cream maker, perfect for a sweet treat any time you crave it! 🍦
FAQ about Easy No-Churn Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, natural peanut butter often has a more fluid consistency and less sweetness. If using natural peanut butter, you might want to add a bit of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and to help with texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover peanut butter ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within two weeks for optimal flavor and texture, but it can last for up to a month!
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate Chips or Candy?
Absolutely! If you’d like to add chocolate chips, chopped cookies, or candies, fold them in gently after combining the peanut butter mixture with the whipped cream. Just be careful not to-overmix!
Why Is My Ice Cream Not Freezing Properly?
If your ice cream isn’t freezing well, ensure that you’re using cold ingredients and that your freezer is set to the correct temperature (0°F or -18°C). Also, make sure the airtight container is properly sealed to prevent ice crystals from forming.
