If you’re looking to brighten your dessert lineup with a refreshing twist, this Orange Ice Cream Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with natural citrus zing and creamy indulgence, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that feels like a sunny day in every bite. The fresh orange juice and zest infuse each scoop with vibrant flavor, while the richness of cream and milk makes it irresistibly smooth. Whether you’re ending a family dinner or treating yourself on a warm afternoon, this Orange Ice Cream Recipe will quickly become your go-to for a cool, citrusy delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Orange Ice Cream Recipe calls for just a handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the luscious texture to delivering that unmistakable fresh orange flavor and creamy consistency.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the rich, velvety texture that makes the ice cream indulgent and smooth.
- 1 cup whole milk: Balances the creaminess and lightens the texture just right.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the base and enhances the fresh orange flavor without overpowering.
- 1 cup fresh orange juice: The star ingredient that delivers vibrant citrus brightness and natural sweetness.
- Zest of 1 orange: Adds intense orange aroma and a zesty punch for depth.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, mellow note that rounds out the citrus perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Orange Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Cream, Milk, and Sugar
Start by combining the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk them together until the sugar has completely dissolved. This ensures your ice cream base will be perfectly sweet and smooth, making every spoonful silky on the tongue.
Step 2: Add Fresh Orange Ingredients
Next, stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The fresh juice and zest bring that unapologetic citrus punch, while the vanilla and salt help balance and elevate the overall flavor profile. Making this step count really sets the stage for a standout Orange Ice Cream Recipe.
Step 3: Churn the Mixture
Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, this process takes about 20 to 25 minutes and transforms the liquid base into a wonderfully creamy, soft-serve texture filled with the fresh brightness of orange.
Step 4: Freeze to Firm Up
After churning, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container and pop it in the freezer for at least two hours. This step lets the ice cream firm up to that perfect scoopable consistency that everyone loves.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, scoop out your homemade Orange Ice Cream into bowls or cones. Whether it’s a casual treat or part of a special dessert, this Orange Ice Cream Recipe is sure to impress and delight with every spoonful.
How to Serve Orange Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can add an extra layer of fun and flavor. Consider fresh mint leaves, a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest, or even chopped candied orange peel. These small touches not only make every serving look inviting but also amplify the fresh citrus essence of the orange ice cream.
Side Dishes
This bright and creamy ice cream pairs wonderfully with light side dishes like crunchy almond biscotti, buttery shortbread cookies, or even a tangy berry compote. These complements add texture and contrast without overshadowing the ice cream’s unique orange flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try serving the Orange Ice Cream in hollowed-out orange halves for a charming presentation. Alternatively, create an ice cream sandwich using soft ginger cookies or layer the ice cream with granola and fresh fruit in a parfait glass. The possibilities are endless and so delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Orange Ice Cream should be stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent ice crystals from forming. Keeping it tightly sealed preserves that creamy texture and vibrant flavor for days to come.
Freezing
Orange Ice Cream freezes beautifully for up to two weeks. Just make sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the container to minimize freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw slightly for the best scoopable consistency.
Reheating
Ice cream doesn’t need reheating, but if it becomes too hard, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. This softens it just enough to scoop easily without losing its creamy texture or losing the refreshing orange zing.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought orange juice for this Orange Ice Cream Recipe?
While fresh orange juice gives the best bright, natural flavor, you can use high-quality store-bought orange juice if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar for the best results.
Do I need an ice cream maker to make this Orange Ice Cream Recipe?
An ice cream maker helps achieve the smooth, creamy texture, but if you don’t have one, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until fully frozen. It takes more time but still yields delicious results.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Using heavy cream is key for that luxurious texture, but you could try substituting half the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter and slightly tangier version. The texture will be less creamy but still tasty and fresh.
Is this Orange Ice Cream Recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This recipe is made with simple, natural ingredients and no alcohol, making it a refreshing and wholesome treat the whole family can enjoy.
How long does homemade Orange Ice Cream last in the freezer?
For the best flavor and texture, consume your Orange Ice Cream within two weeks. Beyond that, it may develop ice crystals and lose some of its fresh orange aroma.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the experience of enjoying a scoop of fresh, creamy, and zingy Orange Ice Cream Recipe made from scratch. It’s simple to make, bursting with real orange flavor, and full of that homemade charm that store-bought versions just can’t match. I hope you give this recipe a try—you might find it becoming a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
Print
Orange Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (churning time)
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including freezing)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Ice Cream Maker (Churning)
- Cuisine: American
Description
This refreshing Orange Ice Cream recipe features a creamy base enriched with fresh orange juice and zest, delivering bright citrus flavors perfect for a delightful homemade dessert. Smooth, rich, and bursting with natural orange aroma, it’s an ideal treat for warm days or any time you crave a fruity frozen delight.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Cream, Milk, and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a smooth base.
- Add Orange and Flavorings: Incorporate the fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the base mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Churn the Mixture: Pour the combined mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically around 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and place it in the freezer for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and firm up for optimal texture.
- Serve: Scoop the orange ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy this creamy, citrus-infused frozen dessert.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor and brightness in your ice cream.
- Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved before churning to avoid grainy texture.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture and stir every 30 minutes until firm, though texture may be less smooth.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of your oranges.
- Allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature before scooping for easier serving.
