Homemade Black Cherry Ice Cream 🍒🍨

This Black Cherry Ice Cream is smooth, creamy, and packed with the deep, fruity flavor of sweet black cherries. With juicy cherry pieces and a luscious swirl of cherry compote, it's a must-try for cherry lovers!

Ingredients

For the Cherry Compote:

2 cups (300g) black cherries (pitted, fresh or frozen)
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Ice Cream Base:

1½ cups (375ml) heavy cream
1½ cups (375ml) whole milk
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cherry Compote

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring, until the cherries soften and release juices.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for 2 more minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until warm (do not boil).
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and creamy.
Slowly pour ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them.
Gradually pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring continuously over low heat for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Strain through a fine sieve for a silky texture. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream

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

Step 4: Add the Cherry Swirl

In the last 5 minutes of churning, fold in the cherry compote.
Transfer the churned ice cream into a container, layering in extra cherry sauce for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Freeze & Serve

Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours until firm.
Scoop into bowls or cones, garnish with fresh cherries, and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Is Special:

✅ Deep, Fruity Black Cherry Flavor 🍒
✅ Silky Smooth & Creamy Texture
✅ Juicy Cherry Pieces for Extra Burst of Flavor
✅ Perfectly Balanced Sweet & Tart Taste

This Black Cherry Ice Cream is a luscious, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion! 🍨✨