Homemade Coffee Ice Cream – A Dreamy Treat

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of homemade coffee ice cream! This luscious frozen treat combines the bold essence of coffee with the smooth texture of classic ice cream. Whether enjoyed on its own or with delicious mix-ins like chocolate chips or caramel, this recipe is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a refreshing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Coffee Flavor – Infused with instant coffee or espresso for a deep, rich taste.
• Creamy and Smooth – The perfect balance of heavy cream and egg yolks creates a luxurious texture.
• Customizable Add-Ins – Elevate it with chocolate, caramel, or your favorite mix-ins.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and enjoy anytime.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee or espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Heat the Base

• In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and instant coffee until the sugar dissolves.
• Heat until steaming but not boiling, stirring occasionally.

2. Temper the Egg Yolks

• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
• Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
• Gradually add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.

3. Thicken the Custard

• Cook over low heat, stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

4. Chill the Mixture

• Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled.

5. Churn the Ice Cream

• Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes).

6. Freeze & Serve

• Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container.
• Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving for a firmer texture.
• Scoop and enjoy your homemade coffee ice cream!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 1 quart (4-6 servings)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Churning & Freezing Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 6-8 hours (including chilling & freezing)

Variations

• Mocha Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cream mixture for a chocolate-coffee twist.
• Caramel Coffee Ice Cream: Swirl in caramel sauce before freezing for extra richness.
• Nutty Coffee Ice Cream: Stir in chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Softening: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

Brewed coffee adds liquid, which may alter the texture. If using, reduce the milk by 1/4 cup.

Do I need an ice cream maker?

For a no-churn version, whip the heavy cream separately, fold it into the cooled custard, and freeze.

How can I make the ice cream softer?

Adding 1-2 tablespoons of alcohol (such as Kahlúa or rum) helps keep it scoopable.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but sugar helps with texture. Reducing too much may make the ice cream harder.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Ensure the base is fully chilled before churning and store it in an airtight container.

Can I use decaf coffee?

Yes, decaf instant coffee works perfectly for a caffeine-free version.

Why is my ice cream too hard?

Homemade ice cream lacks commercial stabilizers. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

What toppings pair well with coffee ice cream?

Chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, biscotti crumbs, or whipped cream complement the flavor beautifully.

Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes, try cornstarch (1 tablespoon) or sweetened condensed milk as an alternative thickener.

Is this ice cream gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Homemade Coffee Ice Cream is a creamy, bold-flavored treat that coffee lovers will adore. Whether you enjoy it plain or with delicious add-ins, it’s a perfect balance of sweetness and rich espresso flavor. Make a batch today and savor the homemade goodness!

Print