This Easy Homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream combines creamy sweetness with chunks of cinnamon-spiced apples. It’s like having dessert in a scoop!
Making this ice cream is a fun treat! I love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, freeze, and enjoy! Perfect for those cozy nights when you want something special. 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness which balances the sweetness of the ice cream. If you prefer sweeter ice cream, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are excellent alternatives.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Ground spices are essential for that apple pie flavor. If you want a new twist, try adding a bit of cardamom or allspice for extra warmth.
Heavy Cream: This cream makes the ice cream rich and smooth. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can replace some heavy cream with whole milk, but the texture won’t be as creamy.
Graham Crackers: Using crushed graham crackers adds a lovely crunch, mimicking pie crust. If you don’t have them, try crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream is Creamy and Not Icy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is essential for homemade ice cream. Here are some steps to help:
- Make sure to chill the ice cream base thoroughly before churning. A cold mixture churns better and prevents ice crystals.
- Don’t skimp on the churning time; it incorporates air into the mixture, making it fluffy.
- Once churned, transfer it to a container and spread it evenly before freezing, as this helps it freeze uniformly.
With these tips, you’ll get velvety ice cream every time!
Easy Homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or pie crust pieces for added pie texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep time, plus 2 hours of chilling for the ice cream base and 4 hours of freezing time after churning. So, overall, you can look forward to about 6 hours from start to enjoying your homemade ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
Start by melting the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until the apples become tender and caramelized, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then gently stir in the heavy cream until everything is well mixed.
3. Chill the Base:
Cover the ice cream base and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until it is very cold. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture when churning!
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once your base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy texture.
5. Add Apple Filling:
During the last 5 minutes of churning, slowly add the cooled apple filling along with any juices from the pan. If you’re using crushed graham crackers or pie crust pieces for an added texture, now is the time to include them too!
6. Freeze to Firm Up:
After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop.
7. Serve:
Finally, scoop your delightful apple pie ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy the creamy, spiced goodness. This is the perfect treat for warm days or cozy evenings!
Enjoy a delicious homemade treat that tastes just like apple pie in ice cream form!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a lovely tart balance to the sweetness, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter flavor. Just be sure to choose apples that hold their shape well when cooked.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled ice cream base into a shallow container and freeze it. Every 30–45 minutes, stir it vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Continue this process for about 3-4 hours until it’s creamy and frozen.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover apple pie ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last up to 2-3 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it sit out for a few minutes at room temperature to soften slightly before scooping.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add great texture and flavor. You can also add other mix-ins like caramel sauce, chocolate chips, or additional spices to customize your ice cream to your liking.
