This creamy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug. It’s made with just a few ingredients and that lovely cinnamon flavor makes it extra special!
Honestly, this ice cream is perfect for topping pies or just enjoying by itself. I may or may not have eaten it straight from the tub! 😅 It’s super simple to whip up too.
I love making it when I’m in the mood for something sweet but don’t want to fuss in the kitchen. Just mix, chill, and enjoy. Deliciousness achieved! 🥄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Sugar: This ingredient gives the ice cream its distinct caramel-like flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses to mimic the taste. About 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar will do the trick!
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream ensures a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk can work, but the ice cream may be less creamy. Coconut cream can also be a great dairy-free substitute.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for flavor, but if you want a twist, you can try using nutmeg or a blend of fall spices like allspice. Just remember, cinnamon is the star here, so use sparingly with substitutes.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the overall flavor. If you have vanilla bean paste, it adds a wonderful touch. You can also skip this if desired, but it’s worth the extra flavor boost.
Why Is Heating the Mixture Important?
Heating the cream and milk mixture helps dissolve the sugar and activate the flavors. It’s a crucial step for making sure everything blends well together. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in the saucepan before adding the cream. This helps to distribute the dry ingredients.
- Heat on medium until the mixture is warm, stirring often. Do not let it boil, as that can affect the final texture of the ice cream.
- Let it cool completely before churning. This step makes sure the ice cream churns properly and sets off a creamy texture!
Remember to churn it only until it thickens; you want that soft-serve consistency before freezing it. Enjoy your homemade treat! 🍦
How to Make Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then at least 3 hours in the freezer to set. If you have an ice cream maker, you’re all set to create a delightful homemade dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, start by combining the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This will ensure that the flavors blend well together before you add the wet ingredients.
2. Add the Cream and Milk:
Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk into the saucepan with the sugar mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Heat the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture gently. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (but don’t let it boil!). This usually takes a few minutes.
4. Cool Down:
Once the sugar has dissolved and it’s warmed through, take the mixture off the heat and let it cool to room temperature. This step is important so that your ice cream maker works properly.
5. Add Vanilla:
After the mixture has cooled, stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a nice flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
6. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the cooled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this will take about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft, creamy consistency.
7. Freeze Until Firm:
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 3 hours, or until it’s firm. This is the most challenging part – waiting for it to freeze!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ice cream is ready, scoop it into cones or bowls. Enjoy your homemade, creamy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream while it’s fresh and delicious!
Now go ahead and indulge in every bite! 🍦
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Light Brown Sugar Instead of Dark Brown Sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar in this recipe! It will still give you a lovely flavor, although dark brown sugar has a deeper molasses taste. Both will work wonderfully for this creamy ice cream.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! You can make the ice cream without one. After mixing all the ingredients, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes with a fork for about 3-4 hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond or oat milk. The flavors will vary slightly, but you’ll still get a delicious ice cream treat!
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness and creaminess. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften for easier scooping.
