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This pumpkin ice cream recipe is a seasonal favorite turned year-round treat, offering a smooth, creamy texture infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.
Made with real pumpkin purée and lightly sweetened with brown sugar, it balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients.
While not a low-calorie dessert, it delivers a moderate amount of protein from the milk and cream, along with beneficial fats that support satiety.
Pumpkin adds fiber and vitamin A, making this a nutrient-rich option compared to many store-bought alternatives.
The recipe is approachable for any home cook: it’s quick to assemble, requires minimal steps, and the ice cream maker does most of the work, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dessert or weekend entertaining.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat or a festive addition to a fall menu, this ice cream is satisfying, flavorful, and versatile.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Ice Cream Maker
Essential for achieving smooth, creamy texture without ice crystals. Perfect for homemade frozen desserts, allowing consistent results with minimal effort.
Mixing Bowl (Large, Stainless Steel)
Ideal for combining pumpkin, cream, milk, and spices. Its durable surface ensures even mixing and easy whisking, a versatile tool for all cooking needs.
Whisk
Crucial for blending sugar and pumpkin evenly into the cream, ensuring a silky texture. Beyond desserts, a whisk is indispensable for sauces, batters, and emulsifications.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Guarantee accurate measurements of both liquid and dry ingredients, ensuring consistent flavor. Accurate portioning is a must-have for reliable baking and cooking outcomes.
Freezer-Safe Container
Provides proper storage and sets the ice cream to the perfect consistency. A staple in the kitchen for leftovers, meal prep, and homemade frozen treats.
creamy Pumpkin Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Ice Cream Maker (stand mixer attachment)
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Freezer-Safe Container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ice Cream Maker: Before starting, ensure your ice cream maker attachment is fully frozen and ready to go. Most machines require at least 12–24 hours of freezing prior to use. Proper preparation of the canister is essential to achieve a smooth, creamy texture and prevent ice crystals from forming. Assemble the attachment onto your stand mixer, making sure it locks securely in place, and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to pour in your mixture.
- Combine the Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. These dairy ingredients provide the rich, velvety base that makes this ice cream luxuriously smooth. Whisk gently to mix them together, creating a uniform liquid foundation for the flavors to blend into.
- Add Pumpkin and Sweetener: Add the pumpkin purée to the cream mixture, followed by the packed light brown sugar.The pumpkin brings natural sweetness, fiber, and a subtle earthy flavor, while the brown sugar adds warmth and depth. Using a whisk, stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar begins to dissolve and the pumpkin is fully incorporated into the cream. Make sure there are no clumps for a silky consistency.
- Incorporate Spices and Flavorings: Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Add the vanilla extract last. These ingredients create the signature pumpkin pie flavor. Whisk carefully until the spices are evenly distributed, and the mixture is aromatic and inviting. Take a moment to taste—this is your chance to adjust sweetness or spice intensity before freezing.
- Begin Churning the Ice Cream: Turn on the stand mixer so the dasher attachment starts rotating. Slowly pour the prepared ice cream base into the canister, ensuring it flows evenly to prevent splashing. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions, usually about 20–30 minutes. During this time, the ice cream will thicken and gradually take on a creamy, scoopable texture. Avoid opening the machine frequently to maintain a consistent freezing environment.
- Transfer to Freezer-Safe Container: Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, turn off the mixer and carefully remove the ice cream maker attachment. Use a spatula to scrape the ice cream into a pre-chilled, freezer-safe container. Smooth the surface for even freezing and to make scooping easier later.
- Freeze Until Firm: Cover the container with an airtight lid or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.Allow the ice cream to firm up for at least 2 hours. This resting time ensures a perfect texture for serving while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit for 3–5 minutes at room temperature to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or cones, and optionally garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or crushed nuts.Enjoy a smooth, rich, pumpkin-flavored treat any time of year!
Notes
- Always measure pumpkin purée by volume (cups) rather than weight to account for variations in moisture content.
- Use full-fat dairy (heavy cream and whole milk) for the creamiest texture; lower-fat options may result in icier ice cream.
- Let brown sugar dissolve fully in the cream mixture to prevent a grainy texture.
- Chill the ice cream mixture in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes before churning for smoother results.
- Customize spices to taste—add extra cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a more autumnal flavor.
- Make ahead: the ice cream can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the freezer.
Chef’s Secrets: Elevating Pumpkin Flavor
To truly enhance the flavor, use freshly made pumpkin purée if possible; it’s naturally sweeter and more aromatic than canned varieties.
Toasting the spices lightly in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding them to the mixture intensifies the warmth of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.
For an ultra-creamy texture, consider whisking the mixture for a full 2–3 minutes to incorporate tiny air bubbles before churning.
Using full-fat dairy ensures the ice cream stays silky and smooth, while a brief pre-chill in the refrigerator guarantees faster, even freezing in your ice cream maker.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Presentation Ideas
This pumpkin ice cream is versatile for serving. Scoop it into waffle cones for a classic treat, or pair it with warm apple pie for a festive dessert.
Add toppings like caramel drizzle, roasted pecans, or a dusting of cinnamon for extra texture and flavor contrast.
For a lighter touch, serve a single scoop alongside a slice of pumpkin bread or gingerbread cookies.
It also works beautifully as a decadent layer in parfaits, trifle, or even milkshakes for a creamy seasonal twist.
Storage Tips: Maintaining Creamy Perfection
Store the ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Press a piece of parchment or plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the lid to preserve its creamy texture.
Keep the freezer at a consistent temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or lower.
For best results, allow the ice cream to soften for 3–5 minutes at room temperature before scooping.
Homemade pumpkin ice cream is best enjoyed within 1–2 weeks for optimal flavor and creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions: Common Pumpkin Ice Cream Queries
1. Can I use canned pumpkin purée?
Yes, canned pumpkin purée works perfectly. Opt for pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can use a no-churn method by whipping cream separately and folding it into the pumpkin mixture, then freezing in a container, stirring every 30 minutes for the first few hours.
3. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely. Reduce or increase brown sugar according to taste. Keep in mind that less sugar may affect texture, making it slightly harder when frozen.
4. Can I add mix-ins?
Yes! Chocolate chips, crushed gingersnaps, or candied nuts can be folded in during the last 5 minutes of churning for added texture and flavor.
5. How long does it take to soften before serving?
Typically, 3–5 minutes at room temperature is sufficient for easy scooping without melting too quickly.
This recipe is inspired by freshaprilflours and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
