Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
- Peel and Chop Peaches: Start by peeling the peaches. The easiest way to do this is to blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins should slip off easily. After peeling, chop the peaches into small pieces.
- Macerate Peaches: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped peaches with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and the lemon juice. Stir well, then cover and let sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps to release the juices from the peaches.
Step 2: Puree the Peaches
- Blend Peaches: After the peaches have macerated, pour the mixture into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some of the peach pieces to mix in later.
Step 3: Make the Ice Cream Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Peach Puree: Stir in the peach puree until well combined. If you reserved some peach chunks, fold them into the mixture now.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
- Prepare Ice Cream Maker: Set up your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Churn: Pour the peach ice cream mixture into the ice cream maker and churn until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, but times can vary depending on your machine.
Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream
- Transfer to Container: Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container.
- Freeze: Place the container in the freezer for at least 2-4 hours to firm up.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop and Serve: When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve in bowls or cones, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Homemade Peach Ice Cream
- Ripe Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches are not in season, you can use frozen peaches. Thaw them before using.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your peaches and personal preference.
- Chill the Mixture: For a quicker churn, chill the peach ice cream mixture in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before adding it to the ice cream maker.
- Mix-Ins: Consider adding mix-ins like crushed cookies, graham cracker crumbs, or white chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Why Homemade Peach Ice Cream?
Making peach ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. It’s a fun and rewarding process that results in a creamy, delicious dessert bursting with fresh peach flavor. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a special treat, homemade peach ice cream is sure to delight!
Variations to Try
- Peach and Berry Ice Cream: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries to the peach puree for a fruity twist.
- Peach Cobbler Ice Cream: Mix in pieces of baked pie crust or cobbler topping for a delightful crunch.
- Peach Honey Ice Cream: Replace part of the sugar with honey for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Enjoy making and savoring this homemade peach ice cream, a perfect way to celebrate the delightful taste of fresh peaches!