Ice Cream With Cheesecake Chunks – Easy Kitchen Guide

Is there anything more delightful than a lazy summer afternoon spent with good friends, laughter, and something sweet to savor? For me, nothing quite beats sharing a generous scoop of ice cream on a warm day. But not just any ice cream—I’m talking about creamy, rich ice cream generously studded with cheesecake chunks. It pairs wonderfully with a hot slice of pie or a simple slice of fresh fruit. It’s the ultimate dessert!

Today, I’m excited to share with you my very own twist on a classic favorite: ice cream with cheesecake chunks. This homemade treasure takes the best of both worlds, combining velvety cheesecake flavor with the delightful coolness of ice cream. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself, this dessert is to die for!

What is ice cream with cheesecake chunks?

This dish is a blissful combination of creamy cheesecake and ice cream, resulting in a luscious dessert that feels like a celebration with each bite. Made using simple ingredients that you probably have on hand, this luscious treat showcases swirls of cheesecake throughout a rich ice cream base, complete with strawberries and graham cracker bits to mimic that classic cheesecake experience.

What is the flavor profile of this dish?

The flavor profile is irresistible. It boasts a creamy, tangy base thanks to the cream cheese, sweetness from the condensed milk and strawberries, and the delightful crunch of graham crackers. It balances sweetness, creaminess, and a little tartness, making this ice cream a refreshing yet decadent option on a hot day. Each scoop is a nostalgic nod to a slice of cheesecake!

Why You’ll Love this dish?

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. I love that it’s customizable; you can swap in whatever fruit you prefer or make it a chocolate delight. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about enjoying a homemade ice cream that strays from the norm. It’s the perfect family-friendly treat that kids and adults alike will adore.

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The Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this tasty delight:

For the Ice Cream Base:

– 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk

– 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

– A pinch of sea salt

– 2 cups cold heavy cream

– 1 cup of blueberries (for added flavor and color)

For the Filling:

– 2 cups strawberries (diced)

– 6 sheets of graham crackers (roughly crushed)

How to make ice cream with cheesecake chunks?

Making this ice cream is simple and enjoyable. Grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into the steps. You’ll be glad you spent the time making this scrumptious treat. Here’s how to get started.

Step-by-step directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Base

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the sweetened condensed milk, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. The goal here is to create a smooth, creamy mixture that will serve as the base of our ice cream. Set this aside for now; it’s going to be the star of the show!

Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream

Next, take another medium bowl and whip the cold heavy cream using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer. Beat until you achieve stiff peaks. Keeping the cream cold makes this step a breeze, so avoid warming it up before you start.

Step 3: Combine the Cream Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Start by folding about one-quarter of the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture. This lightens the cream cheese and makes it easier to combine with the remaining whipped cream. Gently fold in the rest of the whipped cream until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Freeze the Base

Once combined, transfer this fluffy mixture to your freezer for about 3 to 4 hours. This will start the freezing process and help develop that irresistible texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberries

While the ice cream base is chilling, take one cup of strawberries and blend them in a blender until they are smooth. Reserve the other cup of strawberries, diced, for later. These fresh berries add a lovely burst of flavor and color to our delightful dessert.

Step 6: Incorporate Add-Ins

After the initial freezing time is up, take the ice cream mixture out of the freezer. Stir it well to ensure an even consistency. Now, fold in the blended strawberries, most of the diced strawberries, and a good portion of the crushed graham crackers. Save some of the strawberries and graham crackers for the topping!

Step 7: Freeze Again

Pour the completed mixture into a freezer-safe container—my favorite is a classic bread pan. Sprinkle the reserved diced strawberries and crushed graham crackers on top, creating a little visual magic. Cover the container and place it in the freezer for at least 8 hours, best if you can leave it overnight.

Step 8: Serve Gently

Before you scoop, let the ice cream stand at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This slight thawing makes it easier to serve. Dive in, and enjoy your creamy masterpiece!

Tips

– Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cream cheese and dairy for the best flavor.

– Berry Choices: Feel free to replace strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or peaches, according to your preference.

– Make Ahead: This ice cream is great for making a day in advance; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

– Storage Containers: Use airtight containers for longer storage to maintain freshness.

– Graham Cracker Variations: Try using different flavored graham crackers, like cinnamon or honey, for an extra kick.

How Can You Store This ice cream with cheesecake chunks?

For the best storage, transfer your ice cream into an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy this delightful treat over several days, keep it in the back of the freezer (where it’s coldest) to maintain its creamy texture. It will last about 2 weeks, though I doubt it’ll last that long once you taste it!

If some of the ingredients are not available in your pantry, what are some alternative choices you can consider?

If you find yourself missing some ingredients, here are some substitutes you can use:

– Cream Cheese:Mascarpone cheese can work in a pinch for a similar rich texture and flavor.

– Sweetened Condensed Milk: Use homemade sweetened condensed milk if you want a healthier version that contains less sugar.

– Fresh Berries: Frozen berries can be substituted, though they may produce more liquid. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

– Graham Crackers:Digestive biscuits or chocolate cookies can provide a different yet delicious taste.

– Heavy Cream: Trade heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative that adds a tropical flair.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of ice cream with cheesecake chunks comes in at around 340 calories. It packs a good amount of sweetness but is also high in fat due to the cream, so enjoy it as an occasional treat! With protein from the cream cheese and healthy sugars from the strawberries, it can appeal to those looking for indulgence with a bit of nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some fun ways to serve this ice cream:

– With Fresh Fruit: Serve it alongside fresh berries or banana slices to enhance the experience.

– In a Cone: Scooping it into a waffle cone adds a delightful crunch.

– With Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a luxurious finish.

– Over Pie or Brownies: Use it as a scoop atop warm pie slices or brownies for a decadent dessert.

– Blend into a Milkshake: Combine with milk for a luxuriously creamy milkshake.

What other substitutes can I use in ice cream with cheesecake chunks?

Here are additional substitute ideas to consider:

– Vanilla Extract:Almond extract can give a different nutty flavor that pairs well with cream cheese.

– Sour Cream: For more tang, you can use Greek yogurt in place of some cream cheese, balancing it out with extra sweetness.

– Berries: If you want a richer option, cooked down apple pie filling could work.

– Graham Crackers: Use oatmeal cookies for a chewy texture element instead.

– Sweeteners:Maple syrup or honey can be used instead of sweetened condensed milk if you’re aiming for a more natural flavor.

FAQs

Conclusion

So there you have it! A delightful recipe for ice cream with cheesecake chunks that’s perfect for summer days and cozy evenings alike. Whip it up for a gathering or enjoy it on your own—either way, it’s sure to be a hit. I hope you find joy in making this delicious treat, and even more so, in sharing it with friends and family. Here’s to sunny days and sweet scoops! Enjoy every mouthful!

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