When the sun shines brightly and the heat starts to climb, there’s no better remedy than a refreshing scoop of homemade ice cream. Picture this: creamy, tangy Lemon Curd Ice Cream, a delightful treat that marries the bright zing of lemon with the velvety smoothness of heavy cream. This recipe came to me on an especially warm day, when I craved something cool but wanted to avoid the fuss of an ice cream machine.
Whipping up this no-churn wonder takes just minutes and uses only four simple ingredients, making it the perfect solution for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game without the hassle. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile! You can enjoy it in a cone, between two cookies, or simply on its own while lounging in the yard. Join me in crafting this creamy dream that will surely impress your friends and family, leaving them wondering how something so tasty could be this easy to make. Let’s dive into the bright, zesty world of Lemon Curd Ice Cream!
Why will you love Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
Simplicity at its Finest: With just four ingredients and no ice cream maker required, this recipe makes homemade ice cream accessible to everyone.
Refreshing and Zesty: The blend of lemon curd and heavy cream creates a vibrant, tangy treat that cools you down on hot summer days.
Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes, you can whip this delightful dessert together and have it ready to freeze, saving you valuable time.
Endless Serving Options: Whether in a cone, as a sandwich, or on its own, this ice cream is versatile enough to suit every occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Homemade ice cream is always a hit at gatherings; your friends and family will rave about this light and creamy dessert.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Ingredients
• Create your own refreshing treat!
For the Ice Cream Base
- Lemon Curd – This key ingredient adds a tangy flavor and sweetness; high-quality lemon curd truly elevates the taste.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Opt for full-fat cream to achieve a rich, creamy structure essential for a luscious ice cream.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – This sweet adds a creamy texture and helps balance the tartness of the lemon curd.
- Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor profile, making your Lemon Curd Ice Cream even more delightful.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh Berries – Add fresh berries on top for a burst of color and juicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
- Crushed Shortbread Cookies – Mixing in these cookies gives a lovely crunch and a delicious contrast to the creamy ice cream.
- Extra Lemon Curd – Swirl in additional lemon curd before freezing for an intensified lemon flavor in your ice cream.
How to Make Lemon Curd Ice Cream
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Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 cups of heavy whipping cream with a mixer until stiff peaks form, resembling fluffy clouds that will give your ice cream a lovely texture.
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Mix the Lemon Curd Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of lemon curd until completely smooth. Taste it and adjust the lemon flavor if you’d like more zing!
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Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that light, airy fluffiness. Optionally, you can swirl in more lemon curd here for extra flavor and texture.
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Freeze: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover it with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best results.
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Serve: When ready to enjoy, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve it in bowls, cones, or as a delightful filling between cookies.
Optional: Sprinkle some fresh berries on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
The Lemon Curd Ice Cream is a fantastic dessert for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days! You can prepare the lemon curd base and whip the cream up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to create your ice cream, simply fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream, and follow the freezing instructions. For the best quality, make sure to cover the ice cream tightly in your freezer-safe container to avoid any ice crystals and keep it creamy. Enjoy this flavorful treat anytime with this easy make ahead method!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Curd Ice Cream
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Freezer: Store your Lemon Curd Ice Cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to press plastic wrap directly against the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
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Serving: When it’s time to indulge, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for easier scooping. This tip helps in serving without breaking a sweat!
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Re-Freezing: If you have leftovers, it’s best not to refreeze the ice cream after serving, as it can affect the texture. Enjoy fresh instead!
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Flavor Preservation: For maximum freshness, avoid exposing the ice cream to heat fluctuations by keeping it in the coldest part of your freezer until ready to enjoy.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Variations
Get ready to personalize this delightful treat to suit your taste buds!
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Lime Curd: Swap lemon curd for lime curd for a tropical, zesty twist. The bright flavors will be just as refreshing.
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Berry Swirl: Fold in a berry puree for a beautiful ripple effect, infusing your ice cream with fruity goodness. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries work wonders!
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Chocolate Chips: Add in mini chocolate chips or chunks for a delightful texture contrast and a touch of richness to your lemony treat.
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Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that adds delicious tropical vibes. Full-fat coconut cream makes it luxuriously creamy!
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Minty Fresh: Stir in a touch of mint extract or finely chopped fresh mint for a refreshing herby flavor that pairs nicely with lemon.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in crushed nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to add a delightful crunch and a new texture dimension to your ice cream.
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Ginger Zing: Introduce finely grated fresh ginger into the mixture for a spicy kick that harmonizes with the citrusy notes.
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Chili Heat: If you’re adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into your lemon curd mixture for an unexpected fiery twist that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Lemon Curd Ice Cream
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Use homemade or premium store-bought lemon curd for the best flavor. Fresh, high-quality ingredients make your Lemon Curd Ice Cream truly shine!
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the whipped cream and lemon curd mixture, fold gently to keep your ice cream airy and light. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Freeze Properly: Patience is key; ensure you freeze the mixture for at least 6 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the lemon flavor by tasting the mixture before freezing. A little extra lemon curd can enhance that refreshing zing you desire.
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Creative Serving: Get creative! Serve in waffle cones, over fresh fruit, or as an ice cream sandwich to keep things exciting for your family and friends.
What to Serve with Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the zingy, creamy goodness of this no-churn treat.
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Fresh Berries: The natural sweetness and vibrant colors of berries enhance the tart notes of the lemon curd while adding texture to each bite.
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Shortbread Cookies: Crushed or whole, these buttery cookies provide a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy smoothness of the ice cream beautifully.
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Mint Sprigs: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also offers a refreshing aromatic note that complements the lemony flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an extra layer of creaminess, enriching the ice cream’s already luscious texture.
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Chilled Lemonade: Sip on a glass of homemade lemonade to amplify the lemony zing, ensuring a refreshing palate-cleansing experience before dessert.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: The rich, bitter taste of dark chocolate creates a lovely contrast with the sweet-tart ice cream, making each scoop decadently enjoyable.
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Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies add a nutty flavor and delightful crunch, perfect for dipping into the creamy ice cream or enjoying alongside.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine or Prosecco offers a festive touch, making the dessert feel even more special while enhancing its zesty flavors.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of lemon curd should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality lemon curd, whether store-bought or homemade, as it significantly enhances the flavor of the ice cream. A more tangy and sweet lemon curd will yield a more vibrant ice cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own lemon curd—it only takes a few ingredients and adds a personal touch!
How do I store leftovers of Lemon Curd Ice Cream?
Your Lemon Curd Ice Cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent ice crystals from forming, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the ice cream before sealing. This simple step helps maintain its creamy texture!
Can I freeze this ice cream for longer than 2 weeks?
While it’s best enjoyed within 2 weeks, you can technically freeze Lemon Curd Ice Cream for up to 3 months. Just keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more it may lose that fresh lemon flavor and creamy consistency. If you freeze it longer, allow it to sit out for a bit before serving to soften.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
No worries, this happens sometimes! If your ice cream becomes too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before attempting to serve. This will allow it to soften enough to scoop easily, making your serving experience much more enjoyable. Just remember to keep it covered while it softens to retain its flavor.
Is this Lemon Curd Ice Cream safe for people with allergies?
Great question! Keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy, so it is not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. For a dairy-free option, you might experiment with coconut cream and dairy-free sweetened condensed milk as substitutes, although the flavor and texture may vary somewhat.
Can I use a different type of citrus curd for this recipe?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can absolutely substitute lime curd or even orange curd for a fun twist on this recipe. Just remember that different citrus fruits have varying levels of sweetness and tartness, so you might need to adjust the amount of sugar or sweetened condensed milk accordingly to achieve the desired balance in your ice cream.
Creamy Lemon Curd Ice Cream – No Churn Bliss Awaits You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 cups of heavy whipping cream with a mixer until stiff peaks form.
- 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.
- Gently fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream, avoiding overmixing.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan, smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 6 hours.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.