This Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream is creamy and sweet, making it a perfect treat for warm days. The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon gives it a cozy flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Making this ice cream is super fun! Just mix, freeze, and enjoy the smooth, delicious result. I love serving it with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top—because why not? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the ice cream a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use 2% milk, but it might be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk for a bit of tropical flair!
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a rich and silky mouthfeel. If you’re trying to cut calories, you could use half-and-half, but keep in mind it won’t be as creamy. For a vegan version, consider using a rich plant-based cream like cashew cream.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use white sugar, but the taste will be different. Mixing brown and white sugars can create a nice balance too.
Ground Cinnamon: Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with cinnamon extract in smaller amounts. For a twist, try using a blend of spices like pumpkin pie spice!
Why is Chilling Important for Ice Cream?
Chilling the ice cream base is crucial for getting the right texture. When your mixture is cold, it churns better in the ice cream maker, leading to a smoother final product. If your base isn’t cold enough, the ice cream might become icy or grainy.
- Make sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent anything from getting in while chilling.
- A safe bet is to chill it overnight; this way, you know it’s ready to go when you are!
Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This ice cream recipe will take about 15 minutes of hands-on prep time, followed by a chilling time of at least 4 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator. After churning in the ice cream maker, freeze for at least 2 more hours until firm. So, total time is about 6 hours but most of it is just waiting! Trust me, it’s worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the whole milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk the mixture frequently until the sugar dissolves and it becomes warm but doesn’t boil—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Just watch closely, we don’t want it bubbling away!
2. Combine and Flavor:
Once it’s warm, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. If you’re adding nutmeg for that extra touch of warmth, go ahead and whisk it in now. The mixture should feel silky and sweet at this stage! Yum!
3. Strain the Mixture:
Next, pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This step helps keep your ice cream smooth by removing any cinnamon clumps or undissolved sugar. It’s like giving the ice cream a spa treatment!
4. Chill Time:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—or even overnight. This helps the flavors develop and ensures your mixture is really cold for churning.
5. Churn to Perfection:
When you’re ready to make the ice cream, pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions; usually, it will churn for about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. It’s exciting to watch it transform!
6. Freeze to Firm:
Transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula, seal it up, and pop it in the freezer for at least 2 hours to firm up. The waiting is tough, but oh so worth it!
7. Scoop & Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to enjoy your homemade brown sugar cinnamon ice cream! Scoop it into cones or bowls. You can even sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for that finishing touch. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall any time of the year!
This ice cream is perfect for cinnamon lovers who want a simple but flavorful homemade dessert. The brown sugar adds a rich molasses note, while the cinnamon offers warm spice tones that make each bite comforting and sweet. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use a Different Milk Alternative?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the creaminess may vary slightly, but coconut milk makes a fantastic rich alternative!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep well for about 2-3 weeks. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, you can decrease the amount of brown sugar to 1/2 cup or even less. Just remember that the sweetness balances the cinnamon, so a small adjustment makes a big difference!
Is It Necessary to Chill the Mixture Overnight?
While chilling the mixture for at least 4 hours is recommended for best results, if you’re in a pinch, you can chill it for about 2 hours. Just ensure it’s really cold before churning for a smoother consistency in your ice cream.
