This easy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is a sweet and creamy treat you’ll love! With just a few simple ingredients, it brings cozy flavors to your spoon—perfect for any day!
Making this ice cream is super simple. Just mix, freeze, and scoop—no fancy machines needed! I enjoy it topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, just to make it even sweeter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half or even whole milk for a less creamy feel.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well. Dark brown sugar has a deeper molasses flavor, which I love for added richness. If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar could be used, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Ground Cinnamon: This is crucial for flavor! You can use Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate taste or stick with regular ground cinnamon for that classic kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Vanilla Extract: Always a fantastic addition to ice cream! If you’re out, vanilla bean paste or even a vanilla pod can be a great substitute—it might even enhance the vanilla flavor!
How Do I Ensure Creamy Ice Cream without Ice Crystals?
To make sure your ice cream is smooth and free from ice crystals, chilling the mixture is important. Here’s how to get it right:
- After mixing the ingredients, let the mix cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps with even cooling.
- Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, for the best results.
- When you churn it in your ice cream maker, do so until it’s thick but not overly hard—this ensures a creamy texture.
Lastly, transferring it to the freezer promptly and keeping it covered will prevent freezer burn. Enjoy your homemade ice cream!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy ice cream recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time and requires at least 6 hours total: 2 hours for chilling the mixture and 4 hours or overnight for freezing. A little patience will lead to a delightful creamy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and brown sugar. Turn on the heat to medium and stir frequently until the sugar dissolves, and the milk is hot but not boiling. Once it’s ready, take it off the heat!
2. Add Flavor:
Stir in the ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt until everything is mixed well. Let the mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes so it doesn’t cook the cream in the next step.
3. Blend It All Together:
Pour your brown sugar-cinnamon milk mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then gently stir until everything is combined.
4. Chill Out:
Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until it’s completely cold. This step is important for ensuring a creamy texture!
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once your mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker. Churn according to your maker’s instructions, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
6. Freeze and Firm Up:
After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight so it can firm up nicely.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy it, scoop the delicious ice cream into cones or bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top. Enjoy the sweet flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon!
This recipe yields a delightful, creamy ice cream that’s perfect for warm days or cozy evenings. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
While you can use low-fat or even skim milk, keep in mind that it will result in a creamier texture if you stick with whole milk. For the best creaminess, consider mixing half whole milk and half half-and-half!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To keep it fresh and prevent it from developing ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing with the lid. It should last up to 2 weeks!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can still make this ice cream without one. After chilling the mixture, pour it into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir it every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up crystals until it’s firm and creamy.
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! If you’d like to add mix-ins, do so during the last few minutes of churning in the ice cream maker. Add about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or even cookie pieces for a delicious twist!
