This easy homemade pineapple ice cream is a sweet treat that’s perfect for hot days! With just a few simple ingredients like fresh pineapple, cream, and sugar, it’s super fun to make.
Making ice cream at home is like a mini celebration! I love how creamy and fruity it turns out. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends or just treat yourself after a long day! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh, ripe pineapple gives the best flavor in this ice cream. If fresh pineapples aren’t available, you can use canned pineapple chunks in juice, but be sure to drain them well. I find fresh pineapple adds a bright taste that really shines!
Heavy Cream: The cream adds a rich, smooth texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly.
Whole Milk: Full-fat milk works best for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with 2% milk. However, it won’t be as creamy.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the ice cream. You can use honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener, but adjust the amounts since these are sweeter than granulated sugar.
Lemon Juice: I like to add lemon juice for a hint of brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemon, a bit of lime juice can work well too!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Texture Without an Ice Cream Maker?
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this delicious pineapple ice cream! Just follow these easy steps:
- After chilling the mixture, pour it into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.
- Every 30 minutes, take it out and stir it vigorously with a fork. This helps break up ice crystals and keeps the texture creamy.
- Repeat this process for about 2-3 hours until the ice cream is firm but scoopable.
This method might take a bit longer, but it’s a great way to enjoy homemade ice cream without special equipment!
Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (ripe)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, to enhance flavor)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of active preparation time, plus at least 2 hours for chilling in the refrigerator, and 4 hours in the freezer to firm up. So you can make this delicious ice cream and let it set while you relax or enjoy other activities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple Puree:
Start by placing the fresh pineapple chunks into a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any fibrous bits, but this step is totally optional—I love the texture, so I usually skip it!
2. Mix It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the smooth pineapple puree, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved. It should smell fragrant and delicious!
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s thoroughly cold. This step is important for achieving that perfect creamy texture when you churn it!
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
After chilling, pour the cold pineapple mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve texture. It will be so tempting at this stage!
5. Freeze Until Firm:
Carefully transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Cover it tightly and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm and ready to scoop. I like to make this ahead of time so it’s ready whenever I want a treat!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade pineapple ice cream, scoop it into bowls or cones. You can garnish with extra pineapple pieces or a drizzle of syrup if you like. Sit back, relax, and savor this refreshing tropical delight!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Pineapple Ice Cream
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple! Just make sure to drain it well to remove excess juice before blending. Fresh pineapple does provide a brighter flavor, but canned can work in a pinch!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
To make this ice cream dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice). This will give it a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Your homemade pineapple ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just keep in mind it may become a bit firmer, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! Simply pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir vigorously with a fork every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals, and you’ll have smooth ice cream without an ice cream maker!
