Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Curd Ice Cream is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. It’s light yet rich, tangy yet sweet, and creamy with just the right texture. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker, making it perfect for busy days or anyone who wants an easy homemade treat. It uses only four basic ingredients, all of which come together seamlessly to create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade lemon curd, this ice cream will elevate your summer desserts with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Whip the Cream
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.

2. Mix the Lemon Curd Base
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon curd until smooth.

3. Combine the Mixtures
   Gently fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream. Be careful not to overmix; the texture should remain light and fluffy. For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add a few spoonfuls of lemon curd and lightly swirl it in.

4. Freeze
   Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container. Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 6 hours (overnight for the best results).

5. Serve and Enjoy!
   Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping. Serve in cones, bowls, or alongside shortbread cookies for an added treat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes (including freezing time)

Variations

• Add Crushed Shortbread Cookies: For a pie-like texture, mix crushed shortbread cookies into the ice cream before freezing.

• Top with Fresh Berries or Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of flavor and color, serve your ice cream with fresh berries or a sprinkle of lemon zest.

• Lime Curd Substitute: For a tangier twist, swap lemon curd with lime curd to make Lime Curd Ice Cream.

Storage/Reheating

This Lemon Curd Ice Cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To serve, allow it to soften at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. If the ice cream becomes too hard after storing, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly.

FAQs

1. How long will this ice cream last in the freezer?

This ice cream can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container.

2. Can I use homemade lemon curd?

Yes, homemade lemon curd works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the ice cream.

3. Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?

Unfortunately, this recipe contains dairy. However, you could try experimenting with dairy-free alternatives for the whipping cream and sweetened condensed milk if needed.

4. Can I use regular whipped cream instead of heavy whipping cream?

For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use heavy whipping cream. Regular whipped cream might not have the same rich consistency.

5. Can I make this ice cream without a mixer?

You can whip the cream by hand using a whisk, but it will take more time and effort to achieve stiff peaks.

6. Can I add other fruits or flavors to the ice cream?

Yes, you can get creative! Try adding pureed berries or other citrus fruits to create new flavor combinations.

7. What if I don’t have a loaf pan to freeze the ice cream?

Any freezer-safe container will work. Just be sure it has enough space to hold the ice cream mixture and can be sealed properly.

8. How do I make this recipe less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of sweetened condensed milk, but keep in mind it may affect the texture.

9. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Store-bought whipped cream can be used, but it might not hold up as well as freshly whipped cream, which provides more structure and volume.

10. How can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

This recipe is specifically designed to be made without an ice cream maker, so you can simply follow the directions and freeze the mixture in a container until solid.

Conclusion

This Lemon Curd Ice Cream is a deliciously simple treat that brings together the best of summer flavors in one creamy, tangy dessert. With just four ingredients, it’s perfect for those hot days when you want a refreshing yet indulgent treat without the hassle of an ice cream machine. Whether you stick to the classic lemon flavor or try one of the many variations, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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