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Cinnamon Roll Swirl Ice Cream

Linda M. Harris
This Cinnamon Roll Swirl Ice Cream combines the rich creaminess of homemade vanilla ice cream with a decadent cinnamon swirl, creating the ultimate frozen dessert.
The flavors of buttery cinnamon rolls are perfectly infused into each scoop, making this a must-try for ice cream and cinnamon lovers alike.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Frozen Treat
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Saucepan – For heating the ice cream base.
  • 1 Mixing Bowl – To whisk egg yolks and sugar.
  • 1 whisk (for combining ingredients)
  • 1 Ice Cream Maker – To churn the ice cream.
  • 1 fine-mesh sieve – for straining the custard
  • 1 Freezer-Safe Container – To store the ice cream.
  • 1 Spoon or Knife – For swirling the cinnamon mixture.

Ingredients
  

For the Ice Cream Base:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

  • In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
  • Slowly pour ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly.
  • Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Stir in vanilla extract, strain through a fine-mesh sieve, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until completely chilled.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, cooking for 2 minutes until thickened.
  • Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Churn and Swirl

  • Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (20-25 minutes).
  • Transfer half of the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over it. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and swirl.
  • Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the ice cream.

Step 4: Freeze and Serve

  • Cover the container and freeze for at least 4-6 hours until firm.
  • Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For a No-Churn Version: Whip 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form, fold in 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, then layer with the cinnamon swirl before freezing.
  • Want More Texture? Add crumbled cinnamon rolls or toasted pecans before freezing.
  • Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent ice crystals.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and vegan butter for the swirl.
Keyword Cinnamon Roll Swirl Ice Cream