Lemon Blueberry Swirl Ice Cream is a homemade dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of lemon with the sweet, juicy burst of blueberries. It’s creamy, refreshing, and beautifully swirled for a delightful frozen treat. This ice cream is perfect for warm weather, special occasions, or when you’re craving a fruity yet indulgent dessert.
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of blueberries and ½ cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries soften and release their juices, about 8-10 minutes.
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Make the Ice Cream Base:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
If using a custard base, heat the milk and cream mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to steam. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a little hot milk mixture, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.Stir constantly until the mixture thickens to about 170°F. Let cool completely.
Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically for 20-25 minutes, until it thickens.
Swirl in the Blueberries:
Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
Drizzle the cooled blueberry swirl mixture over the ice cream and gently swirl it through with a spoon or spatula to create streaks.
Freeze:
Cover the container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
Serve:
Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Notes
Chill the Base Thoroughly: Ensure the ice cream base is well-chilled before churning for the best texture.
Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the brightest flavor and make a big difference in the overall taste.
Blueberry Swirl Tip: If you prefer a more intense blueberry flavor, you can cook the blueberries with a little lemon juice and zest for extra depth.
Storage: This ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks, but it’s best enjoyed within the first week for optimal freshness and texture.