This Easy Creamy Greek Yogurt Ice Cream is a tasty treat that feels like a scoop of happiness! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a deliciously creamy dessert in no time.
Plus, it’s a bit healthier than regular ice cream because of the Greek yogurt! I love adding fruit or chocolate chips for a fun twist, but honestly, it’s great on its own too. 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: Using full-fat Greek yogurt gives the ice cream a rich and creamy texture. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat yogurt, but the creaminess will be reduced.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds the luxurious creaminess that we love in ice cream. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Sugar or Honey: Both sweeteners work well here, but honey adds a unique flavor. You can also use maple syrup or agave for a different twist. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste for sweetness!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for flavor. If you don’t have any, imitation vanilla will work in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Ice Cream Super Creamy?
The key to a creamy texture lies in how you mix the ingredients. First, make sure you whisk the yogurt and sugar well until smooth. This step helps incorporate air, which contributes to a lighter texture.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, ensuring it’s airy but not over-beaten.
- When folding in the whipped cream, use a gentle motion with a spatula. This helps maintain the lightness.
- Churning in an ice cream maker introduces air to the mix, making it smooth. If using a shallow container, stir every 30 minutes while freezing to break up ice crystals.
For a fun variation, try adding crushed fruit or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning for extra flavor! Enjoy your homemade treat! 🍦
Easy Creamy Greek Yogurt Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full fat for best creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours to freeze. So, set aside some time and get ready to enjoy some delicious ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sugar (or honey), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth. You want a nice creamy base for your ice cream!
2. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat it until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it to be fluffy!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the yogurt mixture. Use a spatula and be gentle to keep the cream light and airy. Then, add the pure vanilla extract and stir just enough to combine everything well.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
Now, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. It should eventually turn into a soft-serve consistency!
5. Freeze and Firm Up:
Transfer your ice cream to a freezer-safe container. You’ll need to freeze it for at least 2 hours to get that nice hard ice cream texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to enjoy your creation, scoop it into bowls and dig in! If you have leftovers, you can store them in the freezer for up to a week—but I have a feeling it won’t last that long!
Tips: Feel free to get creative! Add mix-ins like fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or crushed nuts during the last few minutes of churning for extra fun flavors. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until creamy. Enjoy your delicious homemade ice cream! 🍦
FAQ
Can I Use Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Instead of Full-Fat?
Yes, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt, but the ice cream may not be as creamy. Full-fat yogurt provides a richer texture, so keep that in mind when making your choice!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make this ice cream by pouring the mixture into a shallow container and freezing it. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes until it’s creamy to help break up any ice crystals.
How to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should keep well for up to a week. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Get creative by adding fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts during the last few minutes of churning. You can also incorporate other flavor extracts like almond or mint for a fun twist!
