If you’re looking for the perfect combination of refreshing fruit and creamy dessert, strawberry cheesecake ice cream is a delightful choice. This homemade treat combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, giving you a dessert that satisfies both ice cream and cheesecake lovers. With the added crunch of graham crackers, it mimics the flavor of a classic cheesecake, but in a cool and refreshing ice cream form.
What sets this recipe apart is the cream cheese base, which adds that signature cheesecake flavor to the ice cream. Plus, the layers of strawberry sauce and graham crackers give it the familiar textures you would expect from a cheesecake. If you love experimenting with homemade desserts, you might also enjoy making this tangy Key Lime Cake Recipe, which has a similarly refreshing flavor profile.
Whether you’re looking to wow your friends at a summer barbecue or simply enjoy a special treat at home, strawberry cheesecake ice cream is the perfect choice. Now, let’s get started on how to make this indulgent dessert from scratch.
What Is Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?
Strawberry cheesecake ice cream is a rich, creamy dessert that combines the tanginess of cheesecake with the fresh, sweet flavor of strawberries. The base is made with cream cheese, which gives it that familiar cheesecake flavor, while heavy cream and whole milk ensure the ice cream is rich and smooth. To replicate the texture of a cheesecake crust, we’ll add crushed graham crackers, which bring a pleasant crunch to every bite.
This ice cream is perfect for anyone who loves both fruity flavors and the richness of cheesecake. It’s smoother and creamier than traditional strawberry ice cream due to the addition of cream cheese, and the tartness of the strawberries complements the richness beautifully. Whether served on its own or alongside other desserts, this ice cream is sure to be a hit.
For those who are a fan of combining creamy textures with bold flavors, you might also want to explore a different take on creamy desserts by trying this indulgent Chocolate Mousse Cake.
Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
To make strawberry cheesecake ice cream at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the best option, but frozen strawberries will work too. They provide a burst of fruity flavor and add vibrant color to the ice cream.
- Cream Cheese: The secret to creating that unmistakable cheesecake flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Graham Crackers: Crushed graham crackers mimic the crust of a cheesecake, adding a delicious crunch to the ice cream.
- Heavy Cream and Whole Milk: These form the rich and creamy base of the ice cream.
- Sugar: Both granulated sugar and powdered sugar are used to sweeten the base and the strawberry sauce.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor, enhancing the cheesecake and strawberry notes.
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed ice cream that rivals anything you can find in the store.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream from Scratch
Follow this detailed guide to create your own strawberry cheesecake ice cream at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce
- Wash and hull 1 pound of fresh strawberries.
- Dice the strawberries and place them in a saucepan with ¼ cup of granulated sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
The strawberry sauce will provide swirls of fresh fruit throughout the ice cream, ensuring that each bite bursts with fruity flavor.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Ice Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with ¾ cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to ensure that it is cold before churning.
This cheesecake base will give the ice cream its signature richness and creamy texture, setting it apart from typical fruit-based ice creams.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process usually takes 20-25 minutes.
- Once the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency, stop the machine.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can also make this recipe using a no-churn method, which we’ll cover in the variations section.
Step 4: Assemble the Ice Cream
- In a freezer-safe container, spoon in ⅓ of the churned ice cream.
- Drizzle ⅓ of the strawberry sauce over the ice cream, then sprinkle with ⅓ of the crushed graham crackers.
- Repeat this layering process two more times, until all the ice cream, strawberry sauce, and graham crackers are used up.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect.
Step 5: Freeze and Serve
- Cover the container with plastic wrap or wax paper to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream with friends and family, or savor it as a special treat just for yourself.
Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
- Add a swirl of hot fudge or mix in chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-strawberry combination.
2. Mixed Berry Cheesecake Ice Cream
- Substitute strawberries with a mix of berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, for a more complex fruit flavor.
3. Oreo Cheesecake Ice Cream
- Instead of graham crackers, mix in crushed Oreos to give the ice cream a cookies-and-cream twist.
4. No-Churn Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream! Simply mix the cream cheese, heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla together as described above, then pour the mixture into a loaf pan. Stir in the strawberry sauce and graham crackers, and freeze for 6 hours, stirring every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours to create a creamy texture.
For another twist on cheesecake flavors, check out this delicious Red Velvet Oreo Recipe, which adds a red velvet spin to the classic Oreo combination.
Nutritional Information for Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
While indulgent, homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream offers a balance of rich dairy and fresh fruit. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 644 kcal
- Fat: 45g (27g saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Sugar: 47g
- Protein: 7g
This dessert is a treat, so while it’s rich and decadent, it can certainly fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage and Shelf Life of Homemade Ice Cream
To keep your strawberry cheesecake ice cream fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container, and press a layer of plastic wrap or wax paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- The ice cream will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 1 month, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy it within the first two weeks.
If you’re concerned about freezer burn or keeping the ice cream as fresh as possible, a vacuum-sealed container is the best option for long-term storage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Even though making ice cream at home is fun and rewarding, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:
1. Not Chilling the Ingredients
- Always ensure that the cream cheese, milk, and cream are cold before mixing. Chilling the mixture before churning ensures the best texture.
2. Using Low-Fat Dairy
- To achieve the creamiest texture, stick with full-fat ingredients. Using low-fat milk or cream can result in a less smooth, icy texture.
3. Skipping the Freezing Step
- While the ice cream may look ready after churning, it’s essential to freeze it for several hours to firm up and reach the correct texture.
4. Overmixing the Base
- Avoid overmixing the ice cream base, as this can introduce too much air, leading to an icy texture rather than a creamy one.
If you’re looking for other fun ice cream creations, try pairing your ice cream with this decadent Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake, which complements the fruity and creamy flavors of the ice cream.
Serving Ideas for Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
While strawberry cheesecake ice cream is delicious on its own, you can elevate your serving experience with these creative ideas:
- In Waffle Cones: The crunchy texture of a waffle cone perfectly complements the smoothness of the ice cream.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Scoop the ice cream between two chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies to create indulgent ice cream sandwiches.
- Toppings Galore: Add fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate to take your ice cream to the next level.
- Dessert Pairing: Serve this ice cream alongside a slice of Key Lime Cake for a refreshing dessert duo.
FAQs: Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
What makes cheesecake ice cream different from regular ice cream?
The addition of cream cheese gives cheesecake ice cream a rich, tangy flavor that sets it apart from traditional ice cream flavors.
Can I make strawberry cheesecake ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can use a no-churn method by freezing the mixture in a shallow dish and stirring it every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours to create a smooth texture.
Can I substitute other fruits for the strawberries?
Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a different but equally delicious flavor.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming in homemade ice cream?
To prevent ice crystals, store the ice cream in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface. This prevents air exposure, which causes ice crystals to form.
Conclusion: A Perfect Summer Dessert
Strawberry cheesecake ice cream offers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy cheesecake flavors and the refreshing sweetness of strawberries. Whether you’re looking for a summer treat or a special dessert for any time of the year, this ice cream is sure to please. With its rich texture, bursts of strawberry sauce, and crunchy graham crackers, each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors.
For more delicious recipes that pair well with this ice cream, check out this indulgent Chocolate Mousse Cake, which makes for a heavenly dessert duo. Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the recipe variations!