Homemade Peach Ice Cream is a refreshing and creamy summer treat that celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe peaches. Made with a rich custard base of cream, milk, and sugar, and flavored with fresh peaches and vanilla, this ice cream delivers a smooth, luscious texture and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Perfect for warm days, backyard gatherings, or simply treating yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peach ice cream is rich, smooth, and full of real peach flavor. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients and doesn’t rely on artificial flavoring. You can use fresh or frozen peaches, and the recipe is easily adaptable for ice cream makers or no-churn methods. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer picnics or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- heavy cream
- whole milk
- granulated sugar
- vanilla extract
- fresh ripe peaches (see note below for quantity and preparation)
Note: While not listed in your original message, most peach ice cream recipes use 2–3 medium peaches (about 1½ cups chopped), peeled and pureed or chopped, depending on desired texture.
Directions
-
Prepare the Peaches:
Peel and dice 2–3 ripe peaches. You can either mash them slightly for a chunky texture or puree them in a blender for a smoother consistency. Set aside. -
Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved. -
Add the Peaches:
Stir in the prepared peaches. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to ensure it’s very cold before churning. -
Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 20–25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. -
Freeze:
Transfer the ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. -
Serve:
Scoop and enjoy! Garnish with peach slices or mint if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: About 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Churn Time: 20–25 minutes
Freeze Time: 4 hours
Total Time: About 6.5 hours (including chilling/freezing)
Variations
- No-Churn Version: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. In a separate bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk (instead of milk and sugar), vanilla, and peach puree. Fold in the whipped cream, pour into a container, and freeze.
- Boozy Twist: Add a tablespoon of peach schnapps or bourbon for a grown-up version.
- Spiced Peach Ice Cream: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the fruit.
- Swirl Style: Reserve half of the peach mixture and swirl it through the ice cream just before freezing for texture and color contrast.
- Yogurt Blend: Replace half of the cream with full-fat Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. Do not refreeze once thawed to prevent ice crystals.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Yes. Drain canned peaches well and chop. If using frozen, thaw and drain before blending or chopping.
Do I need an ice cream maker?
No. You can follow the no-churn variation above using whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk.
How ripe should the peaches be?
Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Under-ripe peaches will lack depth.
Can I add peach chunks?
Yes, fold in chopped peaches after churning for texture. Make sure they’re small and well-drained to avoid ice crystals.
Can I reduce the sugar?
A slight reduction is fine, but sugar helps with texture and consistency in frozen desserts, so don’t reduce too much.
Can I use 2% milk instead of whole?
Yes, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. Whole milk is recommended for richness.
How long will it last in the freezer?
Best enjoyed within 1–2 weeks. Over time, ice crystals may form and affect texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk with a dairy-free cream alternative and adjust sweetener to taste.
What’s the best way to peel peaches?
Score the bottoms, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Skins should peel off easily.
Can I use this base for other fruit flavors?
Absolutely. Replace the peaches with other fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries for variation.
Conclusion
Homemade Peach Ice Cream is the ultimate summer indulgence—smooth, creamy, and packed with fresh fruit flavor. Whether you’re using farm-fresh peaches or frozen ones from your freezer, this simple recipe creates a classic frozen dessert that captures the best of the season. Make a batch for your next gathering or treat yourself to a scoop of sunshine anytime.
Print
Homemade Peach Ice Cream
- Total Time: ~6 hours
- Yield: About 1.5 quarts 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Peach Ice Cream is creamy, fruity, and perfectly sweet—made with real peaches, heavy cream, and vanilla for a refreshing summer treat. Whether you use fresh or frozen peaches, this churned delight is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peaches, peeled and chopped (about 3 medium peaches)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to enhance peach flavor)
Instructions
Prep Peaches:
In a blender or food processor, pulse chopped peaches with lemon juice until chunky or smooth, depending on desired texture. Set aside.
Mix Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until sugar is fully dissolved.
Combine & Chill:
Stir in the peach purée. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
Churn:
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
Freeze:
Transfer churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 2–4 hours for a firmer consistency.
Serve:
Scoop and enjoy! Top with extra fresh peach slices if desired.
Notes
- No ice cream maker? Pour mixture into a shallow pan, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy (about 3–4 hours).
- For extra flavor, fold in peach chunks during the last few minutes of churning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Ice Cream Maker
