This creamy no-churn peanut butter ice cream is super easy to make! All you need are just a few simple ingredients: peanut butter, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and a little vanilla.
Making this is a breeze! I stir everything together, pop it in the freezer, and in a few hours, I’ve got a delicious treat ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for hot days or anytime cravings! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Creamy Peanut Butter: For a rich taste, use creamy peanut butter. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can swap half for crunchy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter is healthy, but it may affect the creaminess a little.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the ice cream its texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half. While it won’t be as rich, it will still taste good!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds sweetness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter alternate, try using a sugar substitute or coconut milk-based condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the flavor of the ice cream. You could use vanilla bean paste for a richer vanilla flavor or even almond extract for a different twist.
How Do I Get the Creamy Texture Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Whipping the cream correctly is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture without churning. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the heavy cream is cold; this helps it whip better.
- Use a clean mixing bowl and beaters to avoid any grease, which can hinder whipping.
- Whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks. This means the cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture using a spatula. The key here is to be gentle! You want to keep the air in the whipped cream to maintain the fluffy texture.
By carefully mixing, your ice cream will come out light and creamy without all the effort. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Easy No Churn Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time. Then, just let it freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until it’s nice and firm. Perfect for an impromptu treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, the can of sweetened condensed milk, and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and fully blended. This creamy mixture is the heart of your ice cream!
2. Whipping the Cream:
In another bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until it reaches stiff peaks. This texture is essential for keeping your ice cream light and airy.
3. Folding the Mixtures:
Now, it’s time to combine the mixtures! Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. You want your ice cream to stay fluffy, so mix until just combined.
4. Adding Crunch (Optional):
If you want an extra crunch, now’s the time to fold in the chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for some delightful texture throughout your ice cream.
5. Freezing the Mixture:
Pour the peanut butter mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula to make it nice and even. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, then place it in the freezer.
6. Setting the Ice Cream:
Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best results. It’s the waiting game, but trust me, it’s worth it!
7. Scooping and Enjoying:
Once your ice cream is firm, scoop it out into bowls or cones and enjoy! Treat yourself to this creamy, no-churn peanut butter delight. Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy No Churn Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter may create a slightly different texture since it can be less creamy than regular peanut butter. If you do use it, you might want to mix in a little extra sweetened condensed milk to help balance the texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Your peanut butter ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent freezer burn. Just scoop and enjoy whenever you’re craving a sweet treat!
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Flavors?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Feel free to add in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even swirls of chocolate or caramel sauce before freezing. Just be mindful not to over mix the whipped cream when adding extra ingredients to keep it fluffy!
What If My Ice Cream Is Too Hard to Scoop?
If your ice cream is too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your deliciously creamy treat!
