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When summer’s oppressive heat descends, there’s nothing more refreshing than a scoop of homemade ice cream—but how about a scoop that transports you to a tropical paradise? That’s exactly what you’ll get with my Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream! The first time I whipped this up, the creamy texture paired with the vibrant guava jam took me completely by surprise. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors danced on my palate, and I couldn’t help but share it with friends and family.

Perfect for warm evenings or as a decadent treat after dinner, this ice cream is a delightful escape from the mundane and an adventure in every bite. With its luxurious cream cheese base and the bright flavor of guava, it’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration. Follow me as I guide you through the simple steps of making this crowd-pleaser that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds (or even thirds!). Trust me; this is one recipe you won’t want to miss out on!

Why is Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream a Must-Try?

Irresistibly Creamy: The luscious cream cheese base creates a rich, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

Bursting with Flavor: Each scoop combines the sweetness of guava jam with the slight tanginess of cream cheese for a delightful taste experience.

Tropical Escape: This ice cream transports you to a sun-soaked beach, perfect for those longing for a tropical getaway.

Homemade Goodness: Ditch the store-bought options and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting this delicious treat right in your kitchen.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a gathering or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Try Serving it with: A side of warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist.

Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base
• 12 ounces cream cheese – provides the luscious creamy texture that makes this ice cream stand out.
• 2¼ cups whole milk – ensures a rich and smooth consistency for the ice cream.
• 1¼ cups heavy cream – adds extra richness and creaminess to your frozen treat.
• 1¼ cups sugar – balances the tangy flavors, creating a delightful sweetness.
• 2 large eggs (beaten until just blended) – contribute to the creamy texture while helping to stabilize the ice cream.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – brightens the flavors of the ice cream and compliments the guava.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, aromatic touch.

For the Guava Jam
• 4 ounces guava paste – the star ingredient that brings a sweet and fruity essence to the ice cream.
• ¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons water – dissolves the guava paste into a spreadable jam consistency.
• Lemon juice (if needed) – adds acidity if the guava jam is too sweet, balancing the flavors perfectly.

For the Crunch
• 12 Maria cookies (crushed into about ½-inch pieces) – provide a delightful crunch and texture contrast in every bite.

This Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream is not just a treat; it’s an experience that will have everyone asking for more!

How to Make Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream

Prepare the Cream Cheese: Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature. This will help it blend smoothly into the ice cream base.
Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is just simmering (around 175˚F) for about 5 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the sugar until it dissolves, then remove from heat.
Temper the Eggs: Transfer the beaten eggs into a mixing bowl. While whisking, slowly add a bit of the hot cream mixture to temper the eggs, then gradually incorporate the rest until combined.
Cook the Mixture: Return the egg and cream mixture to the saucepan over medium heat. Cook while stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (minimum 160˚F). Remove from heat once thickened.
Mix in Cream Cheese: Whisk in the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then stir in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract for that extra burst of flavor. Strain this base through a fine mesh sieve into an airtight container. Let it cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Chill: Cover the custard with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Make the Guava Jam: Slice the guava paste and place it into a small saucepan with the water. Cook over medium heat until it dissolves into a thick jam-like consistency. If it’s too thick, add more water. Taste and adjust acidity with lemon juice if needed. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard base into an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once nearly done, gently fold in the guava jam and crushed Maria cookies a few times—be careful not to overmix! Transfer the mixture to an ice cream container, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkling of extra crushed Maria cookies on top for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream

Fridge: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, enjoy it fresh!

Freezer: Keep the ice cream in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to tightly seal it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn and maintain that creamy goodness.

Reheating: If your ice cream hardens too much in the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping. This will restore its delightful creaminess for serving.

Serving Suggestions: For an eye-catching presentation, serve with additional guava jam drizzled on top and a sprinkle of crushed Maria cookies.

Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to take this creamy delight to new heights with a few personal twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or coconut milk for a vegan version.
Flavored Cream Cheese: Use flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or chocolate, to give the ice cream a unique twist that surprises your taste buds.
Fruit Additions: Toss in real guava chunks or mix in other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for added texture and fruity goodness.
Cookie Crumble: Swap Maria cookies for crushed graham crackers or Oreos to elevate the cookie crunch with different flavors.
Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ice cream base for a warm spice that complements the guava beautifully.
Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup into the mixture before freezing to make a decadent chocolate and guava combination.
Less Sweet: Adjust the sugar content to your liking or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup for a lighter option.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or macadamia nuts, into the mix for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

With each of these variations, you can make this recipe uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream?

On a hot summer day, nothing beats the refreshing delight of a creamy, tropical treat paired with complementary flavors.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast to the sweet creaminess, enhancing every spoonful.
Chilled Mint Tea: The soothing minty freshness balances the rich flavors of the ice cream, making each sip a perfect refresher.
Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch—its richness pairs beautifully with the fruity guava and cream cheese.

Imagine serving this dessert alongside a plate of fresh, zesty fruit. The bright colors and natural sweetness create a stunning visual and flavor contrast that makes for an impressive finish to any meal.

Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats echo the tropical theme and bring a satisfying texture that plays off the ice cream’s creaminess.
Cookies and Cream Crumble: Crunchy bits of cookies add a delightful texture and flavor crunch that works harmoniously with the ice cream.
Bubbly Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine enhances the celebration of flavors and provides an elegant touch for special occasions.

Each of these pairings will elevate your Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream experience, creating a memorable moment for you and your guests!

Expert Tips for Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream

Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature ensures it blends smoothly into the base, avoiding lumps.

Temper the Eggs Carefully: When mixing the hot cream with the eggs, pour slowly while whisking vigorously to prevent scrambling.

Chill Thoroughly: Allow the ice cream base to chill overnight for a richer flavor and smoother texture in your Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream.

Adjust the Jam Sweetness: Taste your guava jam before chilling; if it’s too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can help balance the flavors beautifully.

Don’t Overmix the Ice Cream: When combining the guava jam and crushed cookies, mix just enough to swirl them in for delightful pockets of flavor without losing texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare the ice cream base and the guava jam up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps in the recipe, but let the ice cream mixture chill in the refrigerator overnight. The guava jam can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, be sure to cover both the ice cream base and jam with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. When you’re ready to serve, simply churn the chilled base in your ice cream maker, mix in the guava jam and crushed cookies, freeze for at least 4 hours, and enjoy a delightful homemade treat!

Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What type of cream cheese should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using full-fat cream cheese to achieve the richest, creamiest texture for your Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream. Avoid low-fat or “light” options, as they may not blend as smoothly and could affect the overall creaminess.

How do I store leftover ice cream?
You can store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. It’s important to ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn, which can ruin that divine creamy texture. If you plan to keep it longer, I suggest wrapping it with plastic wrap before sealing for extra protection.

Can I freeze my Guava Jam?
Yes! If you have leftover guava jam, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Pour the jam into an airtight container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can always have some delicious guava jam on hand for your next ice cream adventure!

What should I do if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
Very common! If your ice cream becomes hard after freezing, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping. This will help soften it and restore that dreamy, creamy texture. You can also use a warm ice cream scoop (run it under hot water) for easier serving.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the guava jam?
Definitely! While making the guava jam, taste it before chilling. If you find it too sweet, just add lemon juice a teaspoon at a time until it reaches your desired balance. This is a great way to customize it to your taste while keeping the flavors bright and fresh.

Is this ice cream suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, this Guava Cream Cheese Swirl Ice Cream contains dairy products. However, if you want to make a dairy-free version, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and coconut or almond milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary, but it can still be a delicious treat!