If you’ve been dreaming about a dessert that perfectly combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, then you are in for a treat with this Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe. It is a delightful twist on classic cheesecake, transformed into a luscious, cool ice cream that melts in your mouth. Its smooth texture and vibrant citrus notes make it a refreshing yet indulgent treat that you’ll want to scoop up again and again.

Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet they each play an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and texture that makes this ice cream irresistible.

2 cups heavy cream: Provides the creamy base and luxurious texture critical for authentic ice cream.
1 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that velvety softness without complicated equipment.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that gives the ice cream its signature cheesecake richness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and balances the tart lemon flavor beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to brighten the overall taste.
¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Infuses the ice cream with a fresh and tangy brightness that wakes up your palate.
2 teaspoons lemon zest: Adds an aromatic citrus punch and vibrant color to every bite.
Pinch of salt: Amplifies the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
Optional: Crumbled graham crackers for topping: Adds a delightful crunchy texture and complements the cheesecake flavor beautifully.

How to Make Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Start by softening the cream cheese to room temperature so it blends smoothly without any lumps. Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until creamy and well combined. This step ensures your ice cream base is rich and perfectly smooth, giving you that authentic cheesecake feel in every spoonful.

Step 2: Add the Citrus and Flavors

Next, mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The fresh lemon juice brings a zesty tang, while the zest adds vivid citrus aroma and bursts of flavor. The salt might seem small, but it’s key to balancing and enhancing all these flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cream and Sweetened Condensed Milk

In a separate bowl, gently whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form – this lightens the ice cream and makes it fluffy. Fold the whipped cream carefully into the cream cheese mixture, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk. This combination creates a beautifully smooth custard base without any need for cooking or eggs.

Step 4: Chill and Freeze

Pour the fully mixed ice cream base into a freezer-safe container. Cover it well and freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best texture. The freezing process transforms this mixture into a creamy, tangy frozen dessert that stays soft enough to scoop easily without becoming icy.

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra flair and texture, sprinkle crumbled graham crackers on top before serving. Their subtle crunch and buttery sweetness pair perfectly with the creamy lemon cheesecake ice cream. You might also add a twist of fresh lemon zest or a few mint leaves for a fresh pop of color and aroma.

Side Dishes

This ice cream shines beautifully on its own, but if you want to elevate your dessert, serve it alongside fresh berries or a warm berry compote. The tartness from berries complements the lemon notes while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special occasion, serve scoops in individual glass parfait cups layered with crushed graham crackers and drizzle of honey or lemon curd. You could also create mini ice cream sandwiches using buttery buttery cookies or crushed graham crackers for a delightful handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover ice cream tightly covered in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing freezer odors. Stored properly, the flavors and texture stay fresh for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy your Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe at a later time without sacrificing quality.

Freezing

This ice cream freezes beautifully because it contains no water-heavy ingredients that cause ice crystals. Just make sure it’s sealed well so it doesn’t form freezer burn. When frozen solid, it holds its creamy texture and tangy flavor perfectly.

Reheating

Ice cream is best enjoyed cold and is not meant to be reheated. If your ice cream gets too hard, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly for perfect serving consistency.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is always preferred for the brightness and natural tartness, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, a teaspoon of lemon extract can be a suitable substitute. Just be cautious with the amount, as extracts are concentrated.

Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?

Nope! This Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe is designed to be simple and doesn’t require an ice cream maker. The whipped cream and freezing technique create a creamy texture without churning.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To keep the luscious texture, full-fat coconut cream can replace heavy cream, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives may work as well. However, expect some variation in flavor and texture.

How long does the ice cream need to freeze?

For the best results, freeze the ice cream for at least 6 hours or overnight. This gives it enough time to set into a scoopable, creamy consistency.

Can I add mix-ins like blueberries or crushed cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in berries, crushed graham crackers, or even swirl in some lemon curd after mixing the base but before freezing for extra bursts of flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bright, creamy, and utterly satisfying dessert, this Homemade Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a joyful celebration of summer flavors combined into a smooth, tangy ice cream that’s surprisingly simple to make. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation – I promise every scoop is a little moment of happiness!