Pumpkin Ice Cream
This smooth and creamy pumpkin ice cream combines real pumpkin, warm spices, and natural sweetness for a comforting dessert. High in fiber, rich in healthy fats, and simple to make, it’s the perfect treat for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or everyday indulgence.
Equipment
- 1 Ice cream maker (frozen and prepped)
- 1 Stand mixer with dasher attachment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Freezer-Safe Container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ice Cream Maker: Before you begin mixing any ingredients, ensure your ice cream maker is fully frozen according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most models require at least 12–24 hours in the freezer for the canister to reach the ideal temperature. A properly frozen canister is essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture in your ice cream. Gather all equipment, including your stand mixer with the dasher attachment, a large mixing bowl, and a freezer-safe container for storing the finished ice cream.
- Combine the Dairy and Pumpkin Base: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Add the pumpkin purée, making sure it’s smooth and free of lumps. Using a whisk, gently combine the liquids and pumpkin until the mixture is uniform. This step ensures that your pumpkin flavor is evenly distributed throughout the ice cream base.
- Sweeten and Spice Your Ice Cream: Add the packed light brown sugar to the cream and pumpkin mixture, followed by the ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the sugar begins to dissolve and the spices are fully incorporated. The mixture should smell fragrant and look smooth, with no grainy sugar remaining. This step is key for developing the rich, warm flavors that make this pumpkin ice cream irresistible.
- Begin the Churning Process: Attach the prepared ice cream maker canister to your stand mixer and ensure the dasher is in place. Turn the mixer on to a slow-to-medium speed and slowly pour the pumpkin-cream mixture into the rotating canister. Pouring gradually helps prevent splashing and ensures even freezing.
- Churn Until Creamy: Allow the ice cream to churn for 20–30 minutes, or according to your ice cream maker’s instructions. During this time, the mixture will thicken and increase in volume as air is incorporated. Check the texture occasionally; it should become soft, smooth, and creamy, similar to a thick milkshake.
- Transfer to Freezer-Safe Container: Once churning is complete, turn off the mixer and carefully remove the canister.Using a spatula, transfer the soft ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top evenly. This container will allow your ice cream to firm up properly during the final freezing step.
- Freeze for Firmness: Place the container in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until the ice cream reaches your desired firmness. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming. While freezing, the flavors will continue to meld, resulting in a rich, well-balanced pumpkin taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer about 5–10 minutes beforehand to soften slightly for easier scooping. Scoop into bowls or cones, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired, and enjoy a creamy, comforting treat that’s perfect for any season.
Notes
- Measure pumpkin carefully: Use measuring cups for pumpkin purée, as moisture content can vary by brand, affecting texture.
- Chill equipment: Ensure your ice cream maker canister is completely frozen for best results.
- Customize sweetness: Adjust brown sugar according to taste or substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Spice adjustments: Increase or reduce cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice depending on preference.
- Soft-serve texture tip: For creamier texture, let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
- Optional add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, pecans, or caramel swirls after churning for extra flavor and texture.
