Craving a simple yet delicious dessert? This 3-ingredient coffee ice cream recipe is perfect for you. You only need condensed milk, heavy cream, and instant coffee. The result is a rich, creamy treat that’s easy to make at home. No need for an ice cream maker or fancy equipment.
Quick & Creamy 3-Ingredient Coffee Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee (preferably medium or dark roast)
Instructions
- Pour the heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture. Whipping the cream adds air, making the ice cream light and fluffy.1/2 cup heavy cream
- Once the cream is whipped, gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients without deflating the whipped cream. This step ensures the ice cream stays airy and soft.1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee powder in a few tablespoons of hot water. Stir until the coffee is completely dissolved. This mixture will give your ice cream a rich coffee flavor.2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee (preferably medium or dark roast)
- Pour the dissolved coffee mixture into the whipped cream and condensed milk. Gently fold the mixture until the coffee is evenly distributed. Make sure not to over-mix to maintain the creamy texture.
- Transfer the coffee ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm. For the best results, let it freeze overnight.
- After freezing, your homemade coffee ice cream is ready to enjoy! Scoop it into bowls or cones and savor the rich, creamy flavor. You can also add toppings like chocolate chips or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Notes
Coffee Selection
Choosing the right coffee is crucial for the perfect ice cream. The flavor of your ice cream depends on the quality of your coffee. Here are some tips to help you select the best coffee:- Freshness: Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor. Fresh coffee beans provide a rich and robust taste.
- Type of Coffee: Opt for a medium or dark roast. These roasts have a deeper flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the ice cream.
- Brew Strength: Brew your coffee strong. A strong brew ensures the coffee flavor stands out in the ice cream.
Cream Type
The type of cream you use will greatly affect the texture and richness of your ice cream. Here are some options:- Heavy Cream: This is the best option for a rich and creamy texture. It has a high-fat content, making your ice cream smooth and luscious.
- Whipping Cream: Slightly lighter than heavy cream, but still provides a creamy texture. It’s a good alternative if you prefer a lighter dessert.
- Half-and-Half: This is a mix of milk and cream. It will give you a lighter, less rich ice cream. Use this if you want a lower-fat option.
Churning Methods
Let’s dive into the two most popular methods: using an ice cream maker and the no-churn option.
Using An Ice Cream Maker
Using an ice cream maker is the traditional way to churn ice cream. It ensures a smooth texture and even freezing. Here’s how to do it:
- First, chill the bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer for at least 24 hours.
- Next, prepare your coffee ice cream mixture by combining coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
- Then, pour the mixture into the chilled bowl of the ice cream maker.
- Finally, turn on the machine and let it churn for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
Using an ice cream maker has several advantages:
| Advantages |
|---|
| Produces a smooth texture |
| Even freezing |
| Quicker preparation time |
This method is ideal for those who own an ice cream maker and prefer a foolproof way to make creamy ice cream. The churning process incorporates air into the mixture, making it light and fluffy.
No-churn Option
The no-churn method is perfect for those who don’t have an ice cream maker. Here’s a simple way to make no-churn coffee ice cream:
- Mix the coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream in a large bowl.
- Use an electric mixer to whip the mixture until it forms stiff peaks.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or a freezer-safe container.
- Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
The no-churn method offers several benefits:
| Benefits |
|---|
| No special equipment needed |
| Easy to prepare |
| Flexible freezing time |
This method is incredibly convenient and still delivers a deliciously creamy ice cream. The key is to whip the mixture well to incorporate air, which mimics the churning process of an ice cream maker. Enjoy your homemade coffee ice cream with minimal effort!
Nutritional Facts
Let’s dive into the nutritional facts of this 3-Ingredient Coffee Ice Cream Recipe, focusing on caloric content and ingredient benefits.
Caloric Content
Understanding the caloric content of your coffee ice cream is essential. Each serving of this 3-ingredient treat can fit into your daily diet plan. Here’s a breakdown of the calories:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: One cup contains approximately 982 calories.
- Heavy Cream: One cup has around 821 calories.
- Instant Coffee: A tablespoon adds about 4 calories.
Combining these ingredients, a batch yields about 1807 calories. Divide this by the number of servings to find the calories per serving. For example, if you make eight servings, each serving is roughly 226 calories.
Ingredient Benefits
Each ingredient in this coffee ice cream has its own benefits. Let’s explore them:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is rich in calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health. It also provides a quick source of energy due to its high sugar content.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is a good source of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. It also adds a creamy texture to the ice cream.
- Instant Coffee: Coffee is known for its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help fight off free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Coffee also provides a caffeine boost, improving mental alertness and concentration.
Combining these ingredients, you get a dessert that’s not only tasty but also offers nutritional benefits.
Delicious Toppings To Elevate Your Coffee Ice Cream
Elevate this simple dessert with delicious toppings that add crunch, sweetness, and extra flavor.
1. Chocolate Chips
Chocolate chips add a delightful crunch to your coffee ice cream. The rich chocolate flavor complements the coffee taste perfectly. Sprinkle a handful on top for a simple yet delicious topping.
2. Caramel Sauce
Drizzle some caramel sauce over your coffee ice cream. The sweet and buttery notes of the caramel pair wonderfully with the bold coffee flavor. It’s an easy way to add a touch of elegance to your dessert.
3. Crushed Cookies
Crushed cookies add both texture and flavor to your ice cream. Use chocolate chip cookies for a classic touch or go for Oreo cookies for an extra chocolatey twist. Simply crush the cookies and sprinkle them generously on top.
4. Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is a classic topping that adds a creamy, airy texture to your coffee ice cream. A dollop on top makes your dessert look and taste more indulgent.
5. Nuts
Add some crunch with a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work beautifully. They add a nutty flavor that complements the coffee base.
6. Fresh Berries
Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness and a pop of color. They provide a tangy contrast to the sweet, creamy ice cream.
7. Shaved Chocolate
For a touch of elegance, top your ice cream with shaved chocolate. Use a grater to create delicate chocolate curls. They melt slightly on the ice cream, adding a luxurious feel.
8. Coconut Flakes
Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical twist to your coffee ice cream. The toasty, nutty flavor pairs well with the rich coffee taste. Sprinkle them on top for a delightful crunch.
9. Espresso Powder
Boost the coffee flavor with a dusting of espresso powder. It enhances the coffee notes and adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness.