Mascarpone Ice Cream (No Churn!)

This ultra-creamy mascarpone ice cream is the perfect dessert for those who want a rich and indulgent treat. With a no-churn method, this recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require an ice cream maker. The mascarpone cheese brings a unique richness and tangy flavor, while the sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream create a smooth, velvety texture.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 16 oz. heavy whipping cream (~2 cups)

  • 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk

  • 8 oz. mascarpone cheese (~1 cup)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl and whip it using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.

  2. Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and mascarpone to the whipped cream. Gently fold until well combined.

  3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and cover with plastic wrap.

  4. Freeze for at least 5 hours or until firm.

  5. Serve as is or with your favorite ice cream toppings.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 481 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 29g

  • Protein: 8g

  • Fat: 38g

  • Sugar: 29g

What Makes Mascarpone Ice Cream Unique?

Mascarpone cheese is an Italian cream cheese known for its mild, rich flavor and velvety texture. Unlike other cheeses, mascarpone is made by curdling cream rather than milk, resulting in a creamy, buttery consistency that is perfect for desserts. When combined with the other ingredients in this ice cream recipe, mascarpone adds a unique tanginess and depth that elevates the flavor, making this ice cream a standout dessert.

Another defining feature of this recipe is its no-churn nature. Most traditional ice cream recipes require an ice cream machine to churn the mixture while it freezes, but this recipe eliminates that step. The process involves whipping the cream, combining it with the other ingredients, and freezing the mixture until it reaches a solid, scoopable consistency. This not only saves time but also ensures that you can enjoy homemade ice cream without needing any special equipment.

The Simplicity of the No-Churn Method

The no-churn method for making mascarpone ice cream is incredibly simple. By eliminating the need for an ice cream machine, the process becomes much more accessible for those who may not have specialized kitchen equipment. This method works by taking heavy whipping cream and whipping it into stiff peaks. The whipped cream serves as the base for the ice cream and gives it its smooth, airy texture.

Once the cream is whipped, the remaining ingredients, including mascarpone cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract, are gently folded into the whipped cream. This ensures that the mixture is perfectly combined, with no air bubbles lost, which helps maintain the light texture of the ice cream. The result is a creamy and rich ice cream that is just as smooth and indulgent as traditional churned ice cream.

The Key Ingredients that Make This Ice Cream Special

Heavy Whipping Cream: The base ingredient in this mascarpone ice cream is heavy whipping cream, which provides the necessary fat and texture to make the ice cream rich and creamy. When whipped, it forms stiff peaks that give the ice cream its light and airy texture.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is crucial for achieving the right level of sweetness and creaminess. Sweetened condensed milk is thick and rich, making it an ideal ingredient for no-churn ice cream recipes. It adds sweetness and helps bind the ingredients together, providing a smooth consistency when frozen.

Mascarpone Cheese: Mascarpone cheese is the star of this recipe, offering a mild, slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk. It is rich and creamy, giving the ice cream its luxurious texture. When combined with the whipped cream, mascarpone enhances the overall depth of flavor and gives the ice cream a unique taste profile that sets it apart from other ice cream varieties.

Vanilla Extract: While mascarpone cheese and sweetened condensed milk provide the main flavors, a touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall taste of the ice cream. Vanilla extract adds a warm, fragrant note that complements the richness of the other ingredients and gives the ice cream a well-rounded flavor.

Why Choose Mascarpone Ice Cream?

Mascarpone ice cream stands out due to its indulgent texture and flavor. Unlike other ice creams that may be lighter or airier, mascarpone ice cream is dense and creamy, making it perfect for those who crave a more luxurious dessert. The tangy mascarpone cheese balances the sweetness of the other ingredients, creating a complex and satisfying taste that is not overly sweet.

In addition to its rich flavor, this ice cream is incredibly versatile. You can serve it plain for a simple treat, or you can top it with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to tailor the dessert to your preferences or to match the occasion.

The No-Churn Advantage

One of the biggest advantages of this mascarpone ice cream recipe is the no-churn method. Traditionally, ice cream making requires an ice cream machine, which can be costly, takes up space, and adds an extra step to the process. This recipe eliminates the need for an ice cream maker, making it much more accessible for people who may not have one or don’t want to invest in one.

The no-churn method is not only convenient, but it also allows you to prepare the ice cream in advance and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve it. This makes it an ideal dessert for busy families, gatherings, or even for those who simply want to have a delicious treat on hand for when the craving strikes.

Nutritional Information

While this mascarpone ice cream is undeniably rich and indulgent, it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Each serving contains 481 calories, with 38 grams of fat, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 29 grams of sugar. The protein content is also relatively high for an ice cream, with 8 grams per serving. While this ice cream is not a low-calorie dessert, it can be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.

Tips for Perfect Mascarpone Ice Cream

To ensure that your mascarpone ice cream turns out perfectly, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. First, make sure that the heavy whipping cream is cold before whipping it. This will help it whip up to stiff peaks more easily and result in a lighter texture. Additionally, be gentle when folding the mascarpone, condensed milk, and vanilla extract into the whipped cream to avoid deflating the mixture.

Freezing time is also crucial. The ice cream needs at least 5 hours in the freezer to firm up properly. However, if you can, it’s best to let it freeze overnight to achieve the perfect consistency. Once it’s fully frozen, the ice cream will have a smooth, creamy texture that is easy to scoop and serve.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this ultra-creamy mascarpone ice cream is a perfect dessert for those who enjoy rich, indulgent treats with minimal effort. The no-churn method makes it easy to prepare, and the combination of mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract creates a dessert that is as decadent as it is simple. Whether enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings, this ice cream is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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