This ice cream is a simple and sweet treat with brown sugar and cinnamon that blend together perfectly. It’s creamy, dreamy, and perfect for hot days!
I love how easy it is to make—you just mix, freeze, and enjoy. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds. It’s just that good! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead, but the creaminess will decrease slightly.
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess as well. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or almond milk can be great options, though they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well, with dark giving a stronger molasses flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar and a little molasses (1 tablespoon per cup of sugar) for a similar taste.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for flavor here, but you can switch it out for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cinnamon is unique for this recipe’s taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream is Creamy?
The key to a creamy ice cream is to properly mix and chill your base before churning. Make sure you’ve dissolved the sugar completely while warming the milk mixture, then allow it to cool before adding the cream and vanilla. This helps create a smoother texture once it’s churned.
- Chill your ice cream maker’s bowl the night before to help speed up the process.
- Churning for the right amount of time is crucial. Over-churning can make it grainy, while under-churning may leave it too soft.
Don’t forget to let it sit out for a few minutes before serving so it’s easier to scoop. Enjoy your homemade ice cream!
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, as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This delightful ice cream takes about 15 minutes to prepare and a minimum of 4 hours to freeze. Make sure to give it enough time to set in the freezer so it reaches that perfect creamy texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Warm the mixture over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature.
2. Combine with Cream and Vanilla:
After your milk mixture has cooled, stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions until you reach a soft-serve consistency. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, but be sure to follow the specific instructions for your machine!
4. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Spread it out evenly and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm and scoopable.
5. Ready to Serve:
Before you serve your ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve it in cones or bowls for a deliciously creamy treat!
6. Enjoy!
Your homemade brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is ready to be devoured! Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that make every scoop delightful.
This recipe truly makes for a wonderfully creamy ice cream with the warm, aromatic flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon—a perfect scoop on a waffle cone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use a different sweetener, you can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar or maple syrup. If using maple syrup, reduce the amount slightly and remember that it will impart a different flavor profile.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make this ice cream without one. Just pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency, usually about 3-4 hours.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in your freezer. It will last for up to 2-3 weeks. To keep it fresh, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing with the lid to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to My Ice Cream?
Definitely! You can fold in mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or cookie pieces after the ice cream has finished churning. Just do this gently, then freeze as instructed for the best results.
