There is nothing quite like the refreshing, velvety texture and bright, zesty flavor of homemade ice cream to brighten your day, and this Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe delivers exactly that. Imagine the creamy richness of traditional ice cream combined with the vibrant, sun-kissed taste of fresh orange juice and zest, creating a luscious dessert that’s both indulgent and invigorating. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself on a warm afternoon, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a harmonious symphony of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe, it will become a treasured go-to for your dessert cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe. Each component has its own role: from the silky texture provided by heavy cream to the bright citrus notes amplified by fresh orange zest and juice, these ingredients come together beautifully to build an unforgettable flavor.
- 4 large egg yolks: These add richness and help create a creamy, custard-like base that’s smooth and luxurious.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing the tartness of the oranges without overpowering their natural flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Contributes to a silky texture and lightness in the ice cream.
- 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 4 oranges): Packs intense citrus flavor and vibrant aroma, enhancing every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to round out the flavors and elevate the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The key to creaminess and that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice (from about 4 oranges): Brings zesty freshness and natural sweetness with a burst of citrus sunshine.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, complementing the bright orange flavors perfectly.
How to Make Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ice Cream Base
Start by chilling your ice cream machine’s bowl for at least 24 hours—this ensures your ice cream churns to the perfect consistency without any icy bits. While waiting, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and pale yellow, which adds body and richness to your orange cream base.
Step 2: Heat the Milk
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and salt and bring it just to a simmer. Pull the pan off the heat right before it boils to preserve the delicate flavors and avoid scalding the milk, which could throw off the final texture.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture
Slowly add about half a cup of the hot milk to your egg yolk and sugar mixture, whisking constantly. This gentle heating process is key to preventing the eggs from scrambling and ensures a silky custard base.
Step 4: Thicken the Custard
Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining hot milk. Turn the heat to low and stir constantly until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It usually takes a few minutes, and patience here pays off with a luxurious texture.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Strain the custard to catch any cooked egg bits, then stir in the heavy cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until everything is beautifully combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to avoid skin formation and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the base to chill thoroughly.
Step 6: Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the cold mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the machine’s instructions. Expect about 25 minutes until the texture resembles soft-serve. This step transforms the custard into that iconic creamy treat.
Step 7: Freeze to Firm Up
Transfer the churned ice cream into a shallow container or loaf pan, pressing plastic wrap right on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm and scoopable.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect softness and maximum flavor release. Now you’re set to relish the delightful Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe you made from scratch!
How to Serve Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation by garnishing with thin orange slices, a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest, or even a few fresh mint leaves. These touches not only add a pop of color but also complement the refreshing citrus essence of the ice cream.
Side Dishes
This ice cream pairs wonderfully with light desserts like almond biscotti, crisp shortbread cookies, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a warm slice of pound cake or a tart fruit crumble to balance the creamy texture with contrasting elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl: serve scoops nestled in hollowed-out orange halves for a visually stunning citrus theme, or place a quenelle atop a petite pavlova to combine creamy and crispy textures. You can even create an orange cream ice cream sandwich between two thin, buttery cookies for a fun twist that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftover Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe—though I doubt it will last long—store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed against the surface to keep it fresh and prevent ice crystals from forming, ensuring every scoop tastes just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
This ice cream freezes beautifully for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it is well sealed to maintain the creamy texture and vibrant orange flavor. When ready to indulge again, thaw it just enough to scoop easily for a perfect dessert experience every time.
Reheating
Since ice cream is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, let your Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe soften a bit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to get the ideal creamy consistency without melting it completely.
FAQs
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?
While orange extract can provide some citrus flavor, it lacks the fresh brightness and natural sweetness that fresh juice and zest bring. For the best version of the Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe, I highly recommend using fresh oranges for that vibrant, authentic taste.
Is it necessary to use egg yolks in this recipe?
Egg yolks add a rich, custard-like texture and help thicken the base for that creamy mouthfeel we all love in homemade ice cream. While you can find egg-free recipes, this traditional version benefits greatly from the yolks to achieve its indulgent creaminess.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can still enjoy this recipe! After mixing the base, pour it into a shallow container and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until the ice cream is set. It might take a bit longer, but the flavor will be just as spectacular.
Can I substitute sugar with a natural sweetener?
You can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind they may alter the taste and texture slightly. Granulated sugar helps achieve the classic consistency and sweetness balance for this Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe.
How long can I store homemade ice cream in the freezer?
For the best texture and flavor, consume homemade ice cream within 2 weeks. Over time, even well-stored ice cream can develop ice crystals that affect creaminess, but this Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe holds up well when properly sealed.
Final Thoughts
Making this Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe is more than just preparing a dessert; it’s a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with the scent of fresh oranges and the anticipation of tasting something truly special. Once you master this recipe, the vibrant flavors and creamy texture will make it an instant favorite that’s perfect anytime you crave a refreshing treat. So don’t wait—grab those oranges, fire up your ice cream machine, and let this delicious recipe become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Orange Cream Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and refreshing homemade Orange Ice Cream recipe combines the bright citrus flavor of fresh oranges with a rich custard base. Churned to perfection and frozen to a smooth consistency, this dessert offers a delightful balance of tangy orange zest and sweetness, perfect for warm days or as a vibrant treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Custard Base
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Flavorings & Cream
- 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 4 oranges)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice (from about 4 oranges)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Chill the Ice Cream Bowl. Place the ice cream bowl in the freezer for at least 24 hours or until it is completely solid and you cannot hear any water sloshing when shaken. In the meantime, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and pale yellow.
- Heat the Milk. Pour the whole milk and salt into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer, making sure it does not boil, then remove from heat.
- Temper the Eggs. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk to the egg yolk and sugar mixture while whisking constantly. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling by gradually raising their temperature.
- Cook the Custard. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take a few minutes.
- Strain and Mix Flavors. Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits. Then, stir in the heavy cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 3 hours to chill thoroughly.
- Churn the Ice Cream. Pour the chilled custard mixture into the pre-frozen ice cream bowl and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 25 minutes, until it reaches the thick texture of soft-serve ice cream.
- Freeze Until Firm. Transfer the churned ice cream to a shallow container or loaf pan. Press plastic wrap or wax paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until fully solidified.
- Serve. Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the ice cream bowl is thoroughly frozen for best churning results.
- Do not boil the milk to maintain a smooth custard texture.
- Tempering the egg yolks is crucial to prevent scrambling.
- Pressing plastic wrap on the surface of the custard and final ice cream prevents skin and ice crystals formation.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide the most vibrant flavor.
- Allow ice cream to soften slightly before serving for optimal texture.
