These 6 holiday ice cream flavors bring festive joy to your table without the need for a machine. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up creamy, dreamy treats bursting with rich textures and indulgent flavors. From velvety peppermint to spiced gingerbread, each scoop is a celebration of the season’s best tastes. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this recipe is as effortless as it is delicious.
Feel the smooth, luscious texture melt on your tongue, delivering a burst of holiday magic in every bite. Whether it’s the warmth of cinnamon or the coolness of vanilla snow, these flavors are crafted to delight. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, this homemade ice cream is your ticket to a sweet, stress-free holiday dessert. Let the festivities begin!
Ingredients for Homemade Holiday Ice Cream
- 2 cups (16oz/454g) ice cream base (sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream mixture)
- 1 cup (8oz/225g) pumpkin pie slice (or any other holiday-inspired flavor like peppermint, gingerbread, or eggnog)
- Optional: Add-ins like crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or nuts for extra texture and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill the sweetened condensed milk: Place the sweetened condensed milk in the fridge to keep it cold while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the cold heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine the base: Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly pour the chilled sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream. Mix until fully combined. This is your ice cream base.
- Add your flavors: Gently fold in the pumpkin pie slice (or your chosen holiday flavor) and any additional mix-ins. Be creative and experiment with different combinations!
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture into a large resealable container. Smooth the top with a spatula, then cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Serve and store: Once fully frozen, scoop and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 4 weeks.
Flavor Fun: Creative Mix-Ins and Toppings
Take your holiday ice cream to the next level with fun mix-ins and toppings! For a festive twist, try adding crushed gingerbread cookies, peppermint candies, or toasted pecans. Drizzle with caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair. Pro tip: Fold in your mix-ins gently to keep the ice cream light and creamy.
Serve It Up: Presentation Ideas
Make your ice cream the star of the dessert table! Scoop it into waffle cones, sprinkle with holiday-themed sprinkles, or serve alongside warm pie or brownies. For a cozy touch, top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or nutmeg. Bonus: Add a sprig of mint or a candy cane for a festive garnish.
Freezer-Friendly: Storage Tips
Keep your homemade ice cream fresh by storing it in an airtight container with a piece of parchment paper pressed directly onto the surface. This prevents ice crystals from forming. It’ll stay delicious for up to 4 weeks in the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for the perfect texture.
No Machine, No Problem: Equipment Hacks
Don’t have a stand mixer? No worries! A hand mixer or even a whisk and some elbow grease will work. Just make sure your heavy cream is cold and beat it until stiff peaks form. For easier mixing, chill your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10 minutes before starting.
Holiday Variations: Customize Your Creations
Experiment with seasonal flavors to make this recipe your own. Swap pumpkin pie for eggnog, gingerbread, or cranberry sauce. Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt for depth. Get creative: The possibilities are endless, so have fun and make it uniquely yours!
6 Holiday Ice Cream Flavors: Homemade Ice Cream (No Machine)
Equipment
- stand mixer
- hand mixer
- whisk attachment
- resealable container
- air tight container
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups ice cream base 16oz/454g
- 1 cup Pumpkin pie slice 8oz/225g
Instructions
- Place sweetened condensed milk in the fridge to keep cold.
- Beat cold, heavy cream on high in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer) until stiff peaks form.
- Turn down the speed a little and pour the condensed milk into the whipped cream. Now you have your ice cream base you can add in your desired flavors and fixing.
- GO NUTS! experiment and enjoy creating something that is all you.
- Place in a large resealable container and freeze at least 6 hours or overnight before eating.
- Store in the freezer in an air tight container in for 4 week.
