3 Easy Peach Ice Cream Recipes by Martha Stewart

Summer brings the joy of indulging in peach ice cream, with its luscious, sweet flavor capturing the essence of the season. In this post, we'll explore three delightful peach ice cream recipes by Martha Stewart, known for her impeccable taste and culinary expertise. Whether you're using fresh peaches in summer or frozen ones during the off-season, these recipes will help you make the most delicious homemade ice cream, perfect for cooling off on hot days or adding a special touch to any gathering.

Recipe 1: No-Churn Peach Ice Cream

The beauty of this no-churn ice cream recipe is its simplicity, making it accessible even for those without an ice cream maker. Here's how you can whip up this treat:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ cups ripe peaches, peeled and pitted
  • 3⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, cook the peaches with 2 tablespoons sugar and lemon juice over medium heat until the peaches release their juices, about 5 minutes. Cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whip the cream with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla.
  3. Add the cooled peach mixture into the whipped cream and swirl gently.
  4. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze until firm, at least 6 hours.

🌟 Note: This recipe yields a soft-serve consistency; if you prefer a firmer texture, freeze overnight.

Recipe 2: Churned Peach and Honey Ice Cream

For a more traditional approach, try this churned version with a hint of honey to enhance the natural sweetness of the peaches:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ cups ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 2⁄3 cup sugar, divided
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons honey
• Instructions:
  1. Simmer peaches with 1⁄3 cup sugar and lemon juice until tender. Cool and puree; set aside.
  2. In a separate pan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until steaming. Whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar until light; slowly pour in the hot cream mixture, stirring continuously.
  3. Cook this custard over low heat until thickened. Remove from heat, add honey, and let it cool.
  4. Mix in the peach puree and chill the mixture.
  5. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions, then freeze until firm.

Recipe 3: Spiced Peach Ice Cream

For an adventurous palate, this spiced peach ice cream adds a layer of warmth and complexity:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ cups ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
  • 1⁄2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3⁄4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
• Instructions:
  1. Combine peaches, 1⁄2 cup sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger in a saucepan; cook until peaches are soft, then let cool.
  2. Heat cream and milk until steaming, then gradually temper into egg yolks mixed with the remaining sugar. Cook this custard until it thickens, then strain out spices, cool, and add the peach mixture.
  3. Chill thoroughly, then churn in an ice cream maker and freeze.

🧪 Note: Adjust the spice level to your taste; the key is balancing warmth with the peaches' sweetness.

Incorporating these three peach ice cream recipes into your dessert repertoire not only gives you a variety of textures and flavors but also ensures you have a delightful treat suitable for any occasion. From the simplest no-churn method to more complex custard-based ice creams, Martha Stewart's recipes highlight the versatility and charm of this summer fruit. Enjoy crafting these ice creams, savoring each scoop as a celebration of summer's bounty.

What's the difference between no-churn and churned ice cream?

+

No-churn ice cream requires no ice cream maker; it involves whipping cream to incorporate air, then freezing. Churned ice cream uses an ice cream maker to freeze the mixture while simultaneously incorporating air for a smoother, creamier texture.

Can I use frozen peaches for these recipes?

+

Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be substituted for fresh ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before cooking or blending them into your ice cream base.

How can I make my ice cream more flavorful?

+

To enhance flavor, consider steeping additional flavors in the cream (like lavender, basil, or vanilla bean), or add a splash of bourbon or brandy for an adult twist. Also, allowing your ice cream base to mature in the fridge for a few hours or overnight can intensify the flavors.