This Easy Homemade Key Lime Pie Ice Cream is a refreshing treat! With zesty lime flavor mixed into creamy goodness, it’s like summer in a scoop. Plus, it has a hint of graham cracker crunch!
Making this ice cream is a breeze! Just mix, freeze, and enjoy. I love serving it with a slice of lime on top to impress friends—like I’m a pro chef or something! 🍦🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Half-and-Half: It adds creaminess without all the fat of heavy cream. You can substitute it with whole milk if necessary, but it won’t be as rich.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for that sweetness and perfect texture. If dairy is a concern, try using sweetened coconut condensed milk. It’s a great alternative!
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled key lime juice will do in a pinch.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They provide the classic crust flavor. For gluten-free options, use crushed gluten-free cookies or almonds.
How Do You Whip Cream to Soft Peaks?
Whipping cream properly is key for ice cream texture! Here’s how to achieve those soft peaks:
- Start with chilled heavy cream to ensure better whipping.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and beat on medium speed until it starts to thicken.
- When swirls form, slow down your mixer to prevent over-whipping! Stop when you see soft peaks, which gently hold shape but still droop.
Be careful not to over-whip; otherwise, it can turn grainy and become butter. It’s all about finding that sweet spot!
Easy Homemade Key Lime Pie Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp key lime zest (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional, for sweetening graham crackers if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Then, you just need to freeze it for at least 6 hours until it is firm. So, set it up ahead of time, and in no time at all, you’ll have a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and half-and-half. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture until soft peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters, the cream will hold a peak that gently bends over at the tip. It should look fluffy and light!
2. Mix in Other Ingredients:
Carefully fold in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and salt to the whipped cream mixture. Use a spatula to combine everything gently until smooth and well mixed. You want to keep that airy texture from the whipped cream!
3. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs:
If you’d like some sweetness to your graham cracker crumbs, mix them with the sugar in a small bowl. Then, fold the graham cracker crumbs into your ice cream mixture until they are evenly distributed. This will give your ice cream that classic key lime pie crust flavor!
4. Freeze:
Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly. Pop it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or until it becomes firm enough to scoop.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop it into bowls, sprinkle some extra key lime zest on top for garnish, and enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Pie Ice Cream! It’s the perfect treat for warm days.
This recipe captures the creamy tang of key lime pie in a delicious and easy-to-make frozen treat. The graham cracker crumbs add that perfect crunchy contrast, just like in the pie crust! Enjoy your homemade delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are not available. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To keep it fresh, press a piece of plastic wrap against the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. It will last up to 2 weeks, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use non-dairy sweetened condensed milk. Ensure the graham crackers are also vegan-friendly for the best results.
What Should I Do If the Ice Cream Is Too Hard to Scoop?
If your ice cream is too hard, simply let it sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Alternatively, you can microwave the outside of the container for about 15 seconds to help ease the scooping process!
