Nothing beats the refreshing and zesty flavor of lemon, especially when it's transformed into a rich, creamy ice cream. We all know that summer and ice cream are a match made in heaven, but when you add a citrusy twist like lemon, it takes the classic dessert to a whole new level.

In this article, we'll guide you through an easy and delicious lemon ice cream recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home.

3-Ingredient Lemon Ice Cream Recipe | No Ice Cream Machine

Video by The Cooking Foodie

<h3>Gathering Ingredients</h3>

Before we begin, we need to gather the right ingredients for this simple yet indulgent treat. For the base of the lemon ice cream, we'll need heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and, of course, fresh lemons. The tangy lemon zest and juice are what give this ice cream its bright and fresh flavor, so make sure to use the best quality lemons you can find. If you like a little extra sweetness to balance the tang, you can always adjust the sugar to your preference.

<h3>Preparing the Base</h3>

The first step in making lemon ice cream is preparing the base. Start by combining the heavy cream and whole milk in a medium saucepan. We'll gently heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through. This step helps to dissolve the sugar, so we can create a smooth, sweet base. Once the milk and cream mixture is warm, add the sugar and stir until it's completely dissolved. This ensures the base will be creamy and smooth once frozen.

Next, we'll add the lemon zest and juice. The zest gives the ice cream its fragrant, citrusy aroma, while the juice adds the perfect amount of tang. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, ensuring everything is fully mixed together.

<h3>Chilling the Mixture</h3>

Once the base is prepared, we need to let it cool down to room temperature. Afterward, we place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. Chilling the mixture not only ensures that it will freeze properly in the ice cream maker, but it also enhances the lemony flavor. If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing the bowl in an ice bath, but be sure to let it cool completely before moving on to the next step.

<h3>Churning the Ice Cream</h3>

Now comes the fun part! Using an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most ice cream makers take around 20 to 25 minutes to churn the mixture into a soft-serve consistency. We'll keep an eye on it to make sure it reaches the perfect texture, which should be creamy, smooth, and slightly firm.

If you don't have an ice cream maker, don't worry! You can still make this lemon ice cream by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish and placing it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the ice cream reaches the desired consistency.

<h3>Freezing and Serving</h3>

Once the lemon ice cream has reached the perfect texture, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to firm up for at least 2 hours. This final freezing step ensures that the ice cream will hold its shape when served.

When you're ready to enjoy your homemade lemon ice cream, simply scoop it into bowls or cones and savor the refreshing, creamy flavor. You can garnish it with a few extra lemon zest or a sprig of mint for added flair. It's the perfect dessert to cool off with on a warm day, and it's sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.

<h3>Conclusion: A Simple, Zesty Treat</h3>

Making homemade lemon ice cream is a fun and rewarding process, and it's a great way to enjoy the bright and tangy flavor of lemons. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, we can create a creamy, refreshing treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether we're enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends and family, this lemon ice cream is sure to satisfy our sweet tooth while keeping things cool and refreshing.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some fresh lemons and start making your own batch of lemon ice cream today!