This dreamy brown sugar cinnamon ice cream is a treat you won’t want to miss! It’s creamy, sweet, and has a warm cinnamon flavor that feels just like a cozy hug.
I love scooping it on warm pie or just enjoying it by itself—it’s so good, you’ll want to keep it all to yourself. But sharing is caring, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is key for that rich and creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of cream and whole milk. But the cream gives the best results.
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar will give you a more intense flavor with more molasses, which is nice for this recipe. If you only have light brown sugar, that works too! You can even substitute with coconut sugar for a slightly different taste.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm flavor. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger too! Just be mindful of the amounts, as they can be strong.
Bourbon or Rum: This optional ingredient gives depth to the flavor. If you’re not a fan of alcohol, you can skip it. A splash of vanilla extract can enhance flavor as well if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Get the Creamy Texture Just Right?
Achieving the perfect creamy texture in ice cream is all about balance and technique. Start by heating your mixture gently to dissolve the sugar, but don’t let it boil—bubbling can change the texture. After cooling, refrigerating is crucial for thickening.
- Make sure to whisk lots to combine and aerate the mixture, creating a light texture.
- Churning is where the magic happens! Follow your machine’s instructions precisely for the right consistency.
- Freezing in an airtight container helps solidify the ice cream, making each scoop smooth and delightful.
Remember, patience is your friend here—let it chill thoroughly before serving for the best results! Enjoy every spoonful! 😊
Creamy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg for extra warmth
- Optional: 1 tablespoon bourbon or rum for depth (can omit if preferred)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire process takes about 20 minutes of active preparation. Allow for at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator and around 2 additional hours to freeze after churning. Planning ahead is key, so you can enjoy this creamy delight whenever you want!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by gathering a medium-sized saucepan. In it, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg if you’re using it. These ingredients will form the flavorful base of your ice cream.
2. Add Milk and Cream:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Whisk everything together really well! Make sure the sugar and cinnamon dissolve fully into the liquid. This process helps to create creamy texture.
3. Heat Up the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it as it heats. You want the mixture to get hot, but not boil—look for tiny bubbles forming around the edges!
4. Add Flavorings:
Once hot, take it off the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and your bourbon or rum if you’re including it. This adds a lovely depth to the flavor!
5. Cool Down:
Pour the mixture into a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, cover it up and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have time. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Churn Time:
When you’re ready to churn, take the chilled mixture out of the fridge. Pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
7. Freeze to Firm Up:
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and pop it into the freezer for at least 2 hours. This will make it perfect for scooping!
8. Time to Enjoy:
Grab some cones or bowls and scoop out your delicious brown sugar cinnamon ice cream. Savor the creamy flavor and warm spices—it’s perfect for snuggling up on a cozy evening!
Your homemade ice cream will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, but I bet it won’t last that long with how tasty it is! Enjoy every creamy bite!
FAQ: Creamy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk or Cream?
While you can use lower-fat alternatives like 2% milk or half-and-half, it may affect the creaminess of your ice cream. Heavy cream is key for that rich texture, so I recommend using it for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For optimal freshness, finish it within 2 weeks. It may become a bit icy, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it gets too hard.
Can I Add Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or pieces of caramel after churning. Simply fold them in gently before transferring the ice cream to the container for freezing.
What’s the Best Way to Thaw Ice Cream?
To enjoy your ice cream at its best, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will soften it just enough without melting it into a puddle!
