This Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream is a refreshing treat! With just four simple ingredients, you get a creamy, dreamy delight that’s perfect for warm days.
You won’t believe how delicious this is—you’ll want to make it all summer long! 🍍 I love serving it with fresh fruit on top for an extra fun twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the ice cream rich and creamy. If you need a lighter option, you can swap it with coconut cream for a tropical twist. However, it may slightly change the texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is crucial for sweetness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using coconut milk or almond milk mixed with a bit of sugar, but the texture will differ.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives amazing flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, canned crushed pineapple (drained well) works too. Just be sure to pick one without added sugar for the best taste.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a nice flavor depth. If you don’t have it, almond extract can be a fun alternative for a different twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Whipped Cream?
Whipping the cream to stiff peaks is key for a fluffy ice cream. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your heavy cream is very cold—this helps it whip up better.
- Use a clean bowl and beaters for best results without any fat residue.
- Start on low speed to get the cream frothy, then increase to high until stiff peaks form. A tip: the cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters.
By following these tips, your ice cream will turn out wonderfully creamy and delicious!
How to Make Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks, pureed (or you can use drained crushed pineapple)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: small pineapple pieces for mix-in or garnish
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to freeze it for at least 6 hours (or overnight) to get that perfect ice cream consistency. So overall, plan for about 6 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish—most of it is just waiting for it to freeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, start by whipping the chilled heavy cream. Use an electric mixer to beat it until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape well when you lift the beaters out. Just keep an eye on it; it can go from whipped to over-whipped pretty quickly!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and the pureed pineapple. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture brings all the delicious pineapple flavor to your ice cream.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Next, gently fold the pineapple mixture into your whipped cream. Use a spatula or a large spoon and be careful not to deflate the cream too much. You want everything to be nicely blended but still light and fluffy!
4. Add Pineapple Pieces (Optional):
If you want a little extra texture and chunks in your ice cream, fold in some small pineapple pieces at this point. It can add a delightful surprise when you scoop into your ice cream!
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Transfer the entire mixture to a freezer-safe container. Smooth out the top with a spatula to even it out, then cover it well. Pop it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results, until it’s nice and firm.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the creamy pineapple ice cream into bowls or cones. You can even garnish with some more pineapple pieces if you like. Sit back and savor the refreshing taste of your homemade treat!
Enjoy your delicious homemade pineapple ice cream! 🍍✨
FAQ for Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Can I Use Frozen Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you want to use frozen pineapple, make sure to thaw it completely and then puree it. Just try to drain any excess liquid to avoid affecting the ice cream texture.
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream, and use coconut condensed milk or a homemade sweetened condensed milk made from dates or coconut milk. This will give you a creamy texture without dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store your leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last up to two weeks, but for the best texture and flavor, try to enjoy it within the first week. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make it easier!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or toasted coconut for different flavors and textures. Just fold them in after combining the pineapple mixture with the whipped cream!
