Picture a sun-soaked afternoon, where the sound of laughter dances in the air and the warm breeze carries hints of citrus. This is the moment I discovered the delightful charm of Lemon Curd Ice Cream—a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for cooling down on a warm day. The first time I whipped this up, I was aiming to impress my friends, and what came out of my freezer was pure magic.
You’d be surprised how this elegant dessert comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients. With silky lemon curd mingling with luscious whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk, every bite delivers a burst of summer flavor. Plus, it requires no ice cream maker—just a bowl and a bit of patience while it freezes.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this Lemon Curd Ice Cream is sure to become your new go-to indulgence. Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade ice cream that’s both refreshing and oh-so-easy to make!
Why is Lemon Curd Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With only four ingredients, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for kitchen beginners.
Tangy and Sweet: The balance of luscious lemon curd and sweetened condensed milk results in a heavenly flavor explosion.
No Ice Cream Maker Needed: You don’t need any fancy equipment; just a bowl, a mixer, and patience while it chills.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family night, this ice cream is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in cones, bowls, or paired with shortbread cookies for an added delight.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this refreshing delight!
For the Ice Cream Base
- Lemon Curd – choose store-bought for convenience or whip up homemade for a personal touch of flavor.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – this adds a rich creaminess; don’t substitute with lighter creams for the best texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – it sweetens and stabilizes the mixture, creating that perfect creamy consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – a touch enhances the overall flavor profile without overshadowing the lemon essence.
With these essential ingredients, you’re just a few simple steps away from a refreshing Lemon Curd Ice Cream experience that’s sure to brighten your day!
How to Make Lemon Curd Ice Cream
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Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat 2 cups of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This will give your ice cream that luscious, airy texture.
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Mix the Sweet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of lemon curd until smooth and creamy. The combination should be bright and inviting.
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Fold Gently: Carefully fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream. Keep it light and fluffy—avoid overmixing! If you desire extra lemon flavor, add a few extra spoonfuls of lemon curd and gently swirl it in.
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Prepare for Freezing: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container. Smooth out the top and cover it with plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight if you want it extra firm.
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Serve with Love: Before scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Serve in cones, bowls, or alongside shortbread cookies for a delightful touch.
Optional: Drizzle with extra lemon curd on top for a zesty garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lemon Curd Ice Cream
- Choose Quality Curds: Use fresh or high-quality lemon curd for the best flavor. Homemade lemon curd can elevate your ice cream’s taste dramatically.
- Perfect Whipping: Ensure your cream is cold before whipping; this helps achieve those stiff peaks necessary for a fluffy Lemon Curd Ice Cream.
- Gentle Folding: When mixing, fold gently to maintain airiness. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid.
- Freezing Time Matters: Allow for ample freezing time—6 hours is the minimum, but overnight results in a creamier consistency that can’t be beaten!
- Softening Before Scooping: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to make scooping easier without losing its delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
Lemon Curd Ice Cream is a fabulous choice for meal prep, enabling you to whip up a delightful dessert ahead of time! You can mix the lemon curd, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it until you’re ready to combine with whipped cream. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain that vibrant flavor. On the day you plan to serve, beat the heavy whipping cream and gently fold it into the chilled mix before pouring it into a container for freezing. This means you can enjoy a refreshing treat with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
Picture a sunny gathering filled with laughter, where the tangy sweetness of ice cream is just the beginning of a delightful summer feast.
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Shortbread Cookies: These buttery, crumbly treats perfectly balance the tangy ice cream, adding a lovely texture contrast in every bite. The combination is simply iconic for any dessert spread.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of freshness and natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the lemon’s zestiness. Tossed lightly in sugar, they can elevate your serving for a pop of color.
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Pound Cake Slices: Soft, buttery slices lend a comforting touch, making them the ideal base for a scoop of creamy ice cream. This pairing is like a warm hug on a plate!
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Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: The refreshing mint flavor beautifully complements the citrus tang. Plus, the chocolate adds a decadence that is simply irresistible.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A chilled glass of lightly sweetened iced tea or freshly squeezed lemonade enhances the flavors, bringing that quintessential summer vibe to your meal.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Finish your scoops with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy touch that echoes the ice cream’s creaminess while enhancing overall indulgence.
Each option encourages creative combinations, making your dessert experience as refreshing and enjoyable as the ice cream itself!
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to transform this delicious treat into something uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free condensed milk for a creamy, non-dairy alternative. This version still maintains that rich texture while delivering tropical vibes.
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Extra Zesty: Add the zest of two lemons to the lemon curd mixture for an intensified citrus punch that tickles your taste buds and brightens your ice cream experience.
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Fruity Swirls: Mix in pureed berries (like raspberries or strawberries) for a vibrant, fruity swirl. These natural flavors meld beautifully with the lemon, creating a refreshing berry-lemon fusion that’s as pretty as it is tasty!
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Herbed Delight: Infuse with fresh herbs like basil or mint. Chop them finely, and fold them into the lemon curd mixture to elevate its freshness. Imagine a garden party on a sunny day with this fragrant twist!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once the ice cream is set, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over top for a decadent finish. The combination of tangy and rich chocolate will have everyone clamoring for more.
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Crunchy Texture: Stir in crushed graham crackers or almond slices before freezing for an added layer of texture that complements the creamy ice cream. Each bite becomes a delightful adventure!
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the lemon curd mixture for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the cool sweetness. It’s a bold move that definitely pays off!
Customizing your Lemon Curd Ice Cream is part of the fun! Let your imagination run wild—each variation opens up a world of flavors just waiting to be discovered.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Curd Ice Cream
Fridge: Keep any leftover Lemon Curd Ice Cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezer: For long-term storage, place the ice cream in a freezer-safe container, covering it tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 weeks without losing flavor.
Reheating: If you find the ice cream too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping to achieve that perfect creamy texture.
Serving: Always re-cover any unused ice cream tightly after scooping to maintain its freshness and prevent ice crystals from forming.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of lemon curd should I use?
Absolutely, you can use either store-bought or homemade lemon curd! While store-bought is convenient and saves time, I often recommend making your own if you have the chance. Homemade lemon curd can be richer and fresher, elevating the overall flavor of your Lemon Curd Ice Cream.
How should I store leftover Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
To store Lemon Curd Ice Cream, transfer any leftover portion into an airtight container and keep it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to cover tightly to avoid ice crystals forming, which can affect the texture!
Can I freeze Lemon Curd Ice Cream for longer?
Yes, you can! For best quality, try to consume the Lemon Curd Ice Cream within 2 weeks. However, if stored properly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container, so it maintains its delicious flavor.
What if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
If your ice cream is too firm, no worries! Simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. This little wait will make it easier to scoop while still keeping that delightful, creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
I completely understand wanting to ensure everyone enjoys this treat! This ice cream contains dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can look into dairy-free whipping cream alternatives or a coconut milk-based lemon curd for a delicious non-dairy version.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to the ice cream?
The more the merrier! Once you’ve folded in the lemon curd mixture, consider adding in mix-ins like crushed cookies, fresh berries, or even a splash of limoncello for an adult twist. Just fold them in gently after combining the lemon and cream mixtures. Enjoy experimenting!
Tangy Lemon Curd Ice Cream: A Creamy Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
- Mix sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon curd until smooth.
- Fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream gently.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours.
- Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.