South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream is the perfect way to celebrate summer. Made with fresh, juicy peaches, this ice cream is creamy, sweet, and bursting with flavor. It’s the ideal treat to enjoy on a hot day, whether at a backyard barbecue or as a refreshing dessert after dinner. This easy recipe will help you make a batch of ice cream that captures the essence of ripe South Carolina peaches.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream
- 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped peaches with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar and the lemon juice.
- Stir to coat the peaches, then cover and let sit for 30 minutes to allow the peaches to release their juices.
- After 30 minutes, mash the peaches slightly, leaving some small chunks for texture.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Stir in the mashed peaches and their juices until well combined.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Step 4: Freeze the Ice Cream
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Step 5: Serve
- Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. Garnish with fresh peach slices if desired.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Peach Ripeness: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. South Carolina peaches are known for their sweetness, so make sure they are fully ripe before using.
- Texture: If you prefer a smoother ice cream, blend the peaches completely before adding them to the mixture.
- Chill the Base: For a quicker churn, chill the ice cream base in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before adding it to the ice cream maker.
Variations
- Peach & Cream Swirl: Swirl in 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk during the last few minutes of churning for a creamy swirl.
- Peach & Berry Ice Cream: Add 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the peach mixture for a fruity combination.
- Honey Peach Ice Cream: Replace 1/4 cup of the sugar with honey for a rich, floral sweetness that pairs well with the peaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches if fresh peaches are not available. Thaw the peaches completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. How Should I Store Homemade Peach Ice Cream?
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.
3. Do I Need an Ice Cream Maker for This Recipe?
An ice cream maker is recommended for the best texture, but you can make this recipe without one by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish, freezing, and stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
4. Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or another non-dairy milk, but the texture may be slightly different.
South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream is a delightful way to savor the taste of summer. With its creamy texture and the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh peaches, this ice cream is a refreshing and satisfying treat for any hot day. Feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a taste of the South in every scoop.
Happy churning!
