This creamy ice cream is made with rich brown sugar and a touch of cinnamon, giving it a warm and sweet flavor. It’s super easy to whip up and doesn’t need an ice cream maker!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar gives a deep, caramel-like flavor to this ice cream. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic its taste. About 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar works well.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm, cozy flavor. If you want a twist, you can try using a pinch of nutmeg or even pumpkin pie spice. These can add a unique depth to the taste.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is what makes the ice cream creamy and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the texture might be slightly less creamy.
Whole Milk: This can be swapped with skim milk or almond milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it will result in a less creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract: Always a great addition! If you’re out of vanilla extract, a drop of almond extract can create a lovely flavor. Just be careful, as it can be stronger than vanilla!
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream is Creamy?
Achieving a creamy texture is key for delicious ice cream. Here are some steps to help you get it just right:
- Make sure all ingredients are well mixed before churning. This ensures that the sugar fully dissolves and distributes evenly.
- Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t skip this step, as it incorporates air, making the ice cream light and fluffy.
- Once churned, transfer to a freezer-safe container immediately, and freeze for 2-3 hours to allow it to firm up. This final step is crucial for reaching that perfect scoopable consistency!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 20-25 minutes for churning if you use an ice cream maker, followed by 2-3 hours of freezing time to set it properly. In total, you can expect about 2 hours and 45 minutes before your sweet treat is ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium bowl. Add the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This will help enhance all those lovely flavors.
2. Combine with Cream and Milk:
Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream and whole milk into the bowl. Stir gently until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. This is important for a smooth and creamy ice cream texture!
3. Add Flavor:
Now, add the vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well. The vanilla will enhance the flavor of the ice cream, making it even more delicious!
4. Churn the Mixture:
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You want it to reach a soft-serve consistency.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Once churned, transfer the ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Spread it evenly, then cover it well. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours to let it firm up. This patience pays off with a delightful scoop later!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop your homemade brown sugar cinnamon ice cream into cones or bowls. Enjoy your delicious and creamy treat while it lasts—friends and family will be begging for more!
Celebrate the comfort of classic flavors with this easy-to-make ice cream that warms the heart and satisfies the sweet tooth!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Light Brown Sugar Instead of Dark Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! Light brown sugar works perfectly fine in this recipe. It has a milder flavor compared to dark brown sugar but will still give your ice cream a lovely sweetness.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make this ice cream. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir it with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches your desired consistency, usually about 2-3 hours.
How Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should last about 1-2 weeks. To soften it for easier scooping, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Definitely! Feel free to add in mix-ins like chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or chocolate chips during the last 5 minutes of churning. This will give your ice cream an extra fun texture and flavor!
