When summer arrives, a refreshing dessert like strawberry shortcake ice cream is hard to resist. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the creamy goodness of homemade ice cream, making it an ideal treat for warm days.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
To create this dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Whole milk (2 cups)
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups)
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp)
- Kosher salt (1/4 tsp)
- Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups, divided)
- Angel food cake (3 cups, cubed)
- Fresh strawberries (1 lb, diced)
- Halved strawberries for serving
For more information on the benefits of using fresh strawberries, you can visit this article on strawberry nutrition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
- Preparing the Ice Cream BaseStart by making the base of your ice cream using milk, cream, vanilla, salt, and sugar. This will create a rich foundation for your dessert.
- Toasting the Cake for a Crunchy TextureToast the cubed angel food cake until golden brown to add a delightful crunch to your homemade ice cream. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to use angel food cake, check out this collection of angel food cake recipes.
- Creating the Strawberry SauceCook the strawberries with sugar to create a sweet sauce that adds a burst of fruity flavor.
- Freezing and Layering for the Perfect Ice CreamAfter freezing the ice cream base, layer it with the strawberry sauce and toasted cake pieces to ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Customizing Your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Feel free to personalize your dessert with these variations:
- Swap vanilla extract for almond or lemon extract.
- Add mix-ins like balsamic reduction or chocolate chips.
- Use pound cake or shortbread cookies instead of angel food cake for a different twist. For more inspiration on mix-ins, explore this guide to creative ice cream add-ins.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
For the best results when making this dessert:
- Chill the base overnight to enhance the flavors.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste.
- Store your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Here are some ideas for serving:
- Top with strawberry compote and whipped cream for added sweetness.
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce to enhance the dessert.
- Serve alongside other treats like brownies or traditional shortcake for a complete dessert experience. For more serving ideas, check out this list of ice cream toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them before cooking.
How Can I Get More Swirls?
For more pronounced swirls, layer the strawberry sauce and cake more frequently as you assemble the dessert.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
You can still make this treat by using a no-churn method with store-bought vanilla ice cream.
How Long Can I Store It?
Store your dessert in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the freezer.
Conclusion
This recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of strawberry shortcake in ice cream form. Whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with variations, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.