If you’re a fan of the refreshing taste of lime and looking for a cool and creamy treat, look no further than this lime ice cream recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own tangy and creamy lime-flavored ice cream right at home.
To make this delicious lime ice cream, you will need:
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
First, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is heated through. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix together the lime juice and lime zest. Gradually pour this mixture into the cooled cream mixture, stirring well to combine. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the ice cream reaches a soft and creamy consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
When ready to serve, scoop the lime ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy the zesty and refreshing flavors of homemade lime ice cream. You can also garnish it with a twist of lime zest or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients for Lime Ice Cream
- Fresh limes: The star of this recipe, fresh limes will provide the citrusy flavor that makes this ice cream so tasty. You will need about 6-8 limes, depending on their size and juiciness.
- Heavy cream: This ingredient helps to create a creamy and smooth texture in the ice cream. Make sure to use heavy cream with a high fat content for the best results.
- Whole milk: Whole milk adds richness to the ice cream and helps to balance out the tanginess of the limes.
- Sugar: You will need granulated sugar to sweeten the ice cream and enhance the lime flavor.
- Egg yolks: The egg yolks act as a thickening agent and help to create a velvety texture in the ice cream.
- Vanilla extract: Adding a touch of vanilla extract to the ice cream will enhance the overall flavor and complement the tanginess of the limes.
Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, you can start making the lime ice cream. The combination of fresh limes, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract creates a creamy and tangy dessert that is sure to be a hit. Follow the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful lime ice cream and enjoy its refreshing taste.
Steps to Make Lime Ice Cream
Here are the steps to make lime ice cream:
- Gather your ingredients: To make lime ice cream, you will need fresh lime juice, lime zest, sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to use.
- Mix the lime juice and zest: In a bowl, combine the fresh lime juice and zest. This will give your ice cream a tangy and citrusy flavor. Stir well to make sure the zest is evenly distributed in the juice.
- Make the base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. The sugar will add sweetness, while the cream and milk will give your ice cream its creamy and smooth texture. Add the lime juice and zest mixture to the base and stir until well combined.
- Chill the mixture: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will usually take about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream will thicken and freeze as it churns.
- Transfer to a container: Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to a lidded container. Place the container in the freezer to allow the ice cream to harden further. It is best to let it freeze for at least 2-3 hours or overnight.
- Serve and enjoy: When you’re ready to serve, take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. Scoop into bowls or cones, and garnish with fresh lime slices or zest, if desired. Enjoy your homemade lime ice cream!
Tips for Making the Best Lime Ice Cream
1. Choose fresh and juicy limes: The key to a great lime ice cream is using fresh and juicy limes. Opt for limes that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid limes with dull skin or ones that feel soft when squeezed. Fresh limes will ensure a bright and tangy flavor in your ice cream.
2. Get the perfect lime zest: Zesting the limes properly is crucial for extracting maximum flavor. Use a fine grater or a zester to carefully remove the zest, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Aim for about 1 tablespoon of lime zest for every 2 cups of ice cream mixture. The zest will add a vibrant citrus aroma to your ice cream.
- 3. Use fresh lime juice: In addition to zest, freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Roll the limes on the countertop to release more juice before squeezing. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of lime juice for every 2 cups of ice cream mixture.
- 4. Consider using a custard base: For a creamier and smoother texture, consider making a custard base for your lime ice cream. A custard base typically includes egg yolks, sugar, and milk, which adds richness and creaminess to the final product. Heat the mixture over low heat until it thickens, then strain it before freezing.
With these tips in mind, you can create the best lime ice cream with a vibrant citrus flavor and creamy texture. The key is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, and to balance the tanginess of the limes with the right amount of sweetness. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own unique lime ice cream recipe!
Serving and Storing Lime Ice Cream
Serving:
- Scoop the lime ice cream into individual bowls or cones. For a more elegant presentation, you can use a melon baller to create small scoops and serve them in shot glasses or mini dessert cups.
- If desired, garnish the lime ice cream with lime zest or a mint leaf for some extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Lime ice cream pairs well with a variety of desserts, such as fruit pies, cakes, or waffles. Consider serving it alongside your favorite dessert for a refreshing and tangy twist.
Storing:
- Transfer any leftover lime ice cream into an airtight container, such as a freezer-safe plastic tub or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure the container is clean and completely dry before adding the ice cream to avoid ice crystals.
- Place the container in the coldest part of your freezer, such as the back or bottom shelf. This will help maintain a consistent temperature and prevent the ice cream from melting or developing freezer burn.
- Lime ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within the first month.
Tip: If you want to serve the lime ice cream in individual portions, you can use an ice cream scoop to pre-scoop the ice cream onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours to allow the scoops to harden. Once they are frozen, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag for easier serving later on.
