When the sun blazes and fresh peaches are in season, there’s nothing more refreshing and satisfying than a scoop of Homemade Peach Ice Cream. Sweet, juicy peaches blended into a luscious custard base create a dreamy dessert that captures the very essence of summer. With every creamy spoonful, you’ll taste the sun-ripened fruit and rich dairy in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re new to making ice cream at home or you’re a seasoned pro looking for the ultimate peachy recipe, this guide will take you through all the steps, tips, and tricks to create a homemade treat that’ll rival anything from an ice cream parlor.
🍑 Why Homemade Peach Ice Cream?
- Unmatched flavor – real peaches deliver authentic, juicy sweetness
- Creamy texture – thanks to the perfect balance of cream and milk
- Control over ingredients – no preservatives, just fresh, whole foods
- Customizable – from cinnamon and vanilla to peach chunks and swirls
- Perfect for summer parties or a relaxing evening treat
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks (for custard-style ice cream)
For the Peach Puree:
- 3 large ripe peaches, peeled and pitted
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on peach sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (prevents browning and adds brightness)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
- 1/2 cup diced peaches (folded in at the end)
- Crumbled graham crackers or shortbread for a pie-style twist
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
✅ 1. Prepare the Peach Puree
- Peel and slice the peaches.
- Blend peaches with 2 tbsp sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside or strain if you prefer a smoother texture.
✅ 2. Make the Custard Base
- In a saucepan over medium heat, warm milk, cream, and half the sugar until just simmering.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale.
- Slowly temper the yolks with the hot cream mixture, then return everything to the saucepan.
- Stir constantly over medium-low heat until thickened slightly (coats the back of a spoon).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled (about 4 hours or overnight).
✅ 3. Combine and Churn
- Once the base is chilled, stir in the peach puree.
- Pour into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
✅ 4. Freeze to Set
- For soft-serve texture, enjoy immediately.
- For a firmer scoop, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for 3–4 hours.
✅ 5. Serve and Savor
- Scoop into bowls or cones.
- Garnish with fresh peach slices, mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey.
🧑🍳 Tips for Perfect Peach Ice Cream
- Use ripe, fragrant peaches – the better the fruit, the better the flavor.
- Chill everything – both the custard base and peach puree should be cold before churning.
- No ice cream maker? – Freeze the mixture in a shallow pan, stirring every 30 minutes until set.
- For chunkier texture – fold in diced peaches after churning, not before.
🌈 Fun Variations
- Peach & Raspberry Swirl – swirl in raspberry puree for a tangy twist
- Peach Cobbler Ice Cream – mix in crumbled cinnamon streusel or baked pie crust
- Boozy Peach – add a splash of bourbon or peach schnapps for adult flair
- Vegan Version – swap dairy with full-fat coconut milk and a non-dairy sweetener
🧊 Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals.
- Let soften for 5–10 minutes at room temp before scooping.
🍧 A Peachy Keen Summer Treat
Homemade Peach Ice Cream is the ultimate way to embrace the flavors of summer. Creamy, fruity, and completely comforting, this delightful dessert is sure to bring smiles to every face. Whether served in a waffle cone, paired with a slice of pie, or enjoyed straight from the tub (no judgment!), it’s pure sunshine in every bite.
So grab those peaches while they’re ripe and whip up a batch of this dreamy, creamy treat—you’ll never look at store-bought ice cream the same way again.