If you have a soft spot for the sweet, tangy burst of fresh fruit folded perfectly into creamy richness, you are going to adore this Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe. It’s a dreamy way to celebrate blueberries, capturing their natural vibrancy and flavor with a smooth, velvety texture that feels like summer in every bite. This recipe manages to be surprisingly simple while delivering an indulgent treat that brightens up any dessert moment. A combination of fresh blueberries, a hint of cream cheese to boost creaminess, and a touch of lemon juice for sparkle makes this Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe a standout on any ice cream lover’s list.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step. Each element in this Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe is carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and that fresh blueberry punch.
- 1 Cup Milk: The base liquid that keeps everything smooth and creamy.
- ½ Cup Half and Half: Adds richness without being too heavy, perfect for that luscious texture.
- 1 Teaspoon Cream Cheese (Room Temperature): This secret ingredient elevates creaminess; if you prefer, substitute with ¼ teaspoon guar gum for a similar effect.
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste: Enhances the flavor complexity with warm, sweet undertones.
- 1 Cup Blueberries (Fresh): The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- ¼ Cup Sugar: Just the right amount to balance the tartness of the blueberries.
- ½ Teaspoon Lemon Juice: Provides a subtle zing that brightens the entire dessert.
How to Make Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Sauce
Start by making the luscious blueberry sauce, which forms the heart of this recipe. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the blueberries burst into a glossy, saucy consistency. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it’s thick and fragrant, let it cool so it’s ready to blend with the ice cream base later.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
While the sauce cools, mix the milk, half and half, cream cheese, and vanilla bean paste in a blender. Blend until everything is beautifully combined and smooth. This creamy mixture is the perfect counterpoint to the vibrant blueberry sauce, creating a rich base that will freeze into a silky ice cream.
Step 3: Combine and Freeze
Pour the cooled blueberry sauce into the blender with your ice cream base and blend briefly until the sauce is swirled throughout but still slightly chunky for that fresh fruit texture. Pour this mixture into your Ninja Creami pint container. Place the container on a level surface in your freezer and freeze for 24 hours. It’s best to freeze with the lid off to avoid bumps forming on top, and keep your freezer between 9 and -7 degrees Fahrenheit for ideal freezing.
Step 4: Process the Ice Cream
After freezing, insert the pint container into the outer bowl of your Ninja Creami machine and process using the “ICE CREAM” function. If the texture looks crumbly or dry after the first spin, simply add a tablespoon or two of milk and re-spin until you achieve the creamy, luscious consistency you want. You may need to repeat this a couple of times for perfect results.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Homemade Treat
Remove your beautiful homemade blueberry ice cream from the machine and get ready to savor every spoonful. Fresh, creamy, and bursting with juicy blueberry goodness, it’s nothing short of addictive.
How to Serve Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe with a handful of fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds for crunch. A light drizzle of honey or a dusting of lemon zest adds an extra layer of flavor that keeps your dessert feeling fresh and inviting.
Side Dishes
This ice cream pairs wonderfully with simple sides like warm shortbread cookies or a slice of pound cake. The contrast of cold, creamy ice cream with warm, crumbly textures is incredibly satisfying and makes for an elegant yet cozy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the ice cream into waffle cones lined with chocolate chips or crushed nuts. You might also try layering it in a parfait glass with crumbled granola and fresh berries for a visually stunning and delicious treat that will impress your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep that creamy texture intact and avoid freezer burn. When sealed properly, the ice cream will hold its flavor and texture for up to two weeks.
Freezing
When freezing this ice cream, make sure to keep it on a flat surface to maintain an even, smooth texture. Avoid frequent temperature fluctuations in your freezer to preserve the ideal consistency. Remember to always freeze the ice cream with the lid off for the initial 24 hours during preparation, then cover well afterward.
Reheating
Unlike some desserts, this Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe is best enjoyed cold and should never be reheated. To make it scoopable after freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw them before cooking the sauce, then proceed as usual. The flavor will still be vibrant and delicious.
What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami machine?
If you don’t own a Ninja Creami, you can still try this recipe. Freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until it’s fully frozen to mimic the ice cream’s creamy texture.
Is there a dairy-free version of this ice cream?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and half and half with your favorite plant-based milk and cream alternatives. Keep in mind that the cream cheese helps with texture, so look for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to get similar results.
How long does it take to make this ice cream?
The active preparation time is just about 10 minutes, but the recipe requires 24 hours of freezing to set properly. The wait is definitely worth it!
Why is cream cheese included in the recipe?
Cream cheese adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang that perfectly complements the blueberries. It helps create a rich, smooth texture that feels indulgent without being overpowering.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe enough if you want something fresh, fun, and totally irresistible. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate fruit in a creamy dessert that feels homemade and special. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to treats to brighten up any day.
Print
Blueberry Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 24 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and refreshing Blueberry Ice Cream made with fresh blueberries, cream cheese, and vanilla bean paste, crafted using the Ninja Creami for a smooth, homemade frozen treat ready in just over 24 hours.
Ingredients
Blueberry Sauce
- 1 Cup Blueberries (Fresh)
- ¼ Cup Sugar
- ½ Teaspoon Lemon Juice
Ice Cream Base
- 1 Cup Milk
- ½ Cup Half and Half
- 1 Teaspoon Cream Cheese (Room Temperature; optionally ¼ teaspoon guar gum instead)
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste
Instructions
- Prepare the Blueberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the blueberries burst, creating a saucy consistency. This should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Make the Ice Cream Mixture: In a small blender, combine the milk, half and half, room temperature cream cheese (or guar gum), and vanilla bean paste. Blend until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Blueberry Sauce and Ice Cream Base: Pour the cooled blueberry sauce into the blender with the ice cream base and blend briefly to mix everything together evenly.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the combined mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container. Place the container on a level surface in the freezer and freeze for 24 hours at a temperature between 9°F and -7°F. Freeze the container without the lid to avoid bumps on the surface.
- Process the Ice Cream: After freezing, remove the pint container from the freezer and insert it into the outer bowl of the Ninja Creami. Process the mixture using the “ICE CREAM” function according to the machine instructions.
- Adjust Texture if Needed: If the ice cream appears dry or crumbly after processing, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to the container and re-spin using the same function. Repeat as necessary until a smooth creamy texture is achieved.
- Enjoy: Remove the pint container from the Ninja Creami and serve your homemade blueberry ice cream immediately. Enjoy your refreshing treat!
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese helps it blend smoothly into the ice cream base.
- Guar gum can be used as a cream cheese substitute for a slightly different texture and to avoid dairy.
- Freezing on a level surface ensures even freezing and texture without bumps.
- The Ninja Creami is essential for processing and achieving the perfect ice cream texture; without it, texture may vary.
- Adjust sweetness by tasting the blueberry sauce before blending.
- For a dairy-free version, consider substituting milk and half-and-half with plant-based alternatives and omit cream cheese or use a vegan thickener.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
