This Easy Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream is like summer in a bowl! With ripe peaches and cream, it’s super smooth and sweet. Plus, no fancy ice cream maker is needed!
Every time I make this, I can’t resist sneaking a scoop before it even freezes. It’s just too tasty! 🍑 I love serving it with some extra peach slices on top for a delightful treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Georgia Peaches: Fresh, ripe Georgia peaches are ideal for this recipe. Their natural sweetness makes the ice cream delicious. If you’re not in Georgia, any ripe peaches can work, but try to choose ones that are fragrant and slightly soft to ensure sweetness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the ice cream. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup instead. Just keep in mind that they can alter the flavor a bit.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the ice cream its rich, creamy texture. If you’re trying to reduce calories, you can substitute half and half, but the texture may be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can also be used.
Whole Milk: Regular milk keeps the mixture smooth. Low-fat milk is an option, but it might make the ice cream a bit icy. For those avoiding dairy, almond or oat milk can work, although the flavor will change.
Vanilla Extract: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, feel free to leave it out or you can replace it with almond extract for a different twist!
Lemon Juice: A little acidity balances the sweetness of the peaches. If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice works just fine!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Ice Cream?
A key to achieving a creamy texture is the mixing technique after freezing. Here’s how to do it right:
- After the first hour in the freezer, stir the mixture thoroughly to break up ice crystals that form.
- Use a whisk or hand mixer to really incorporate air into the mixture, making it light and fluffy.
- Repeat this stirring every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours. The more you do it, the creamier your ice cream will be!
This process helps prevent ice crystals from forming, making your peach ice cream smooth and delicious. Don’t skip this step if you want a great result!
How to Make Easy Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large ripe Georgia peaches (about 2 cups peeled and sliced)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and about 3-4 hours for freezing. This includes regular stirring to get the perfect creamy texture. A little patience goes a long way for this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by peeling, pitting, and slicing the peaches. In a medium bowl, toss the peach slices with 1/4 cup of sugar and the lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This process softens the peaches and enhances their natural sweetness.
2. Make the Peach Puree:
Once the peaches have macerated nicely, place them in a blender or food processor. Puree the peaches and their juices until they are mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. This texture adds a great bite to your ice cream.
3. Mix the Cream Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will give your ice cream that delightful creamy base.
4. Combine Peach Puree and Cream Mixture:
Gently fold the peach puree into the cream mixture using a spatula. Make sure to blend until everything is well combined. You want to see beautiful swirls of peach in the creamy mix!
5. Freeze the Mixture:
Pour the peach and cream mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Place it in the freezer and let it chill for about 1 hour.
6. Stir to Break Ice Crystals:
After the first hour, take it out of the freezer. It may start to freeze along the edges. Use a whisk or hand mixer to stir vigorously, breaking up any ice crystals. This will help create that perfect creamy texture.
7. Continue Freezing and Stirring:
Pop it back in the freezer. Repeat the vigorous stirring every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours. You’ll notice it getting creamier and firmer with each stir—keep going!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s fully firm and creamy, scoop the ice cream into sundae glasses or bowls. For a lovely touch, garnish with extra fresh peach slices. Enjoy your delightful Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Georgia Peach Ice Cream
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely before pureeing. If using frozen, you might want to reduce the sugar slightly, as frozen fruit can sometimes be sweeter.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative for This Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk or any other dairy-free milk of your choice. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but delicious in its own right!
How Long Can I Store This Ice Cream?
Your homemade peach ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to add in a splash of cinnamon, a few drops of almond extract, or even some crushed cookies or nuts for added texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently after mixing in the peach puree.
