This Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream is a sweet treat that’s super simple to make! With creamy vanilla, rich brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon, it’s perfect for warm days.
You only need a few ingredients and a bit of patience while it chills. I love scooping it on top of pie or just straight from the tub—no judgment here! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy cream: This ingredient gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though it might not be as creamy.
Whole milk: Whole milk is essential for a smooth consistency. If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or coconut milk can be good alternatives, but they may change the flavor slightly.
Brown sugar: You can choose between light and dark brown sugar based on how deep you want the caramel flavor to be. If you’re out of brown sugar, you might mix white sugar with a little molasses for a similar taste.
Ground cinnamon: While ground cinnamon is key for flavor, you can substitute it with other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the amount to your taste!
How Can I Make Sure My Ice Cream Is Creamy and Smooth?
To achieve that perfectly creamy texture, focus on a few key points:
- Chill your mixture well! The longer you chill (preferably overnight), the better the flavors meld, and the creaminess improves.
- Don’t skip on churning it well in the ice cream maker. This incorporates air, which is vital for a fluffy texture.
- Once done churning, transfer it immediately to an airtight container. This helps to minimize ice crystals forming while it freezes solid.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy a luscious ice cream every time!
How to Make Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours of chill time in the refrigerator and an additional 4 hours in the freezer to firm up. So overall, you’ll be enjoying your ice cream in about 6 hours, but most of that time is just waiting for it to chill and freeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix them well together, ensuring there are no clumps. This step is important for evenly distributing the flavors in your ice cream.
2. Adding Milk:
Gradually pour the whole milk into the sugar and cinnamon mixture while whisking continuously. This helps to dissolve the sugar and cinnamon fully into the milk. Make sure it’s well combined before moving on to the next step.
3. Incorporating the Cream and Vanilla:
Now, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will give your ice cream a rich and creamy texture!
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait. A chilled base makes for better ice cream.
5. Churning the Ice Cream:
Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until you achieve a soft-serve texture.
6. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula, seal it well, and place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
7. Serving the Ice Cream:
After the ice cream has frozen, it’s time to enjoy! Scoop it into cones or bowls and savor the delicious flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar. So satisfying on a warm day or as a sweet treat anytime!
This recipe yields a creamy, slightly spiced ice cream with lovely warm flavors of cinnamon and caramel-like richness from the brown sugar—perfect for a cozy dessert that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Brown Sugar?
Yes! If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you could use coconut sugar or even maple syrup, but these may alter the final taste slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, simply replace the heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat coconut milk or any plant-based cream. Ensure to check the consistency, as some non-dairy options can be thinner.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Ice Cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of caramel during the last few minutes of churning. Just make sure they are small enough to incorporate smoothly into the ice cream!
How Long Will This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Your brown sugar cinnamon ice cream will stay fresh in an airtight container in the freezer for about 2 weeks. For the best texture, try to avoid leaving it in the freezer for too long, as it can develop ice crystals over time.
