This Easy Homemade Cinnamon and Honey Ice Cream is a treat you’ll want all summer! It’s creamy and sweet with a warm spice that makes it special. Who knew ice cream could be so cozy?
Making it is super simple—just mix the ingredients and freeze. I like to top mine with extra honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is crucial for a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the ice cream might be less creamy.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer, maple syrup can be a great substitute for a unique flavor twist!
Whole Milk: This ingredient keeps the ice cream smooth. You can use skim or almond milk, but the texture might be less creamy.
Ground Cinnamon: Fresh ground cinnamon is best for a strong flavor. If you have cinnamon sticks, you can steep them in the milk for a deeper flavor before removing them.
Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. I also love using vanilla bean paste for an extra punch!
How Do You Make Sure Your Ice Cream is Creamy?
Getting creamy ice cream involves a few important techniques. Starting with cold ingredients helps create a smoother texture.
- Combine your ingredients well so everything is evenly mixed.
- Churn according to your ice cream maker’s instructions. This adds air and keeps it fluffy.
- Let it freeze after churning to firm up properly. More time in the freezer leads to a better texture!
Easy Homemade Cinnamon and Honey Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling on top (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 20-25 minutes for churning in the ice cream maker, and at least 2 hours to freeze and firm up. In total, you should allow for around 2 hours and 40 minutes to get this sweet treat ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by gathering a mixing bowl. Add in the heavy cream, whole milk, honey, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, mix everything together until the honey is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and uniform. You should see no streaks of honey or cinnamon.
2. Churning the Ice Cream:
Once your mixture is ready, pour it into your ice cream maker. Follow your machine’s specific instructions, but generally, you’ll need to churn it for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a soft-serve consistency here, so it should thicken up nicely.
3. Freezing to Firm Up:
After churning, transfer the soft ice cream to an airtight container. Seal it well and pop it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 2 hours to achieve that perfect firm texture. It’s worth the wait!
4. Serving Your Ice Cream:
When you’re ready to indulge, take your ice cream out of the freezer. Scoop it into bowls and if you’d like, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch. It makes for a beautiful presentation!
5. Enjoy Every Bite:
Now it’s time to dig in! Take a moment to appreciate the creamy, sweet flavors of cinnamon and honey in every bite. This homemade ice cream is sure to be a favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Sweeteners Instead of Honey?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor twist. Just keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may slightly alter the final texture.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can still make the ice cream. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze it for about 45 minutes, then stir vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process every 30 minutes until it’s fully frozen and creamy.
How Should I Store Homemade Cinnamon and Honey Ice Cream?
Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should maintain its quality for up to 2 weeks. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to This Ice Cream?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chunks of your favorite cookies, nuts, or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning. Just remember that adding mix-ins can change the texture and freezing time slightly.
