Peach Ice Cream

8 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: PT0M Total: 50 m Beginner
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Peach Ice Cream
Mawmaw’s fresh peach ice cream is a summertime classic made with ripe peaches, cream, and just the right touch of lemon juice to brighten the fruit flavor. This Southern favorite churns up smooth and creamy with chunks of fresh peaches in every bite.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and pitted
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 pint Half & Half or for richer flavor - Whipping Cream
  • 1 quart whole milk
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup fresh peaches cut in small chunks

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Process the 4 cups fresh peeled peaches in a blender or food processor until smooth. Prepare one cup of peach chunks and set aside.
  2. Put processed peaches and peach chunks in a large bowl and add the sugar. Combine well and let stand one-half hour to allow the sugar to dissolve and the peaches to release their juices.
  3. Add the Half & Half (or whipping cream), whole milk, vanilla, and lemon juice to the peach mixture. Stir until well combined.
  4. Start the ice cream maker and pour mixture through hole in lid. Churn for 20-40 minutes or until desired consistency is reached and the mixture has thickened.
  5. The recommended way to freeze this mixture is to use the ice cream maker and follow machine directions.
  6. Alternatively, you can freeze in ice cube trays for a quicker freeze, though the texture won’t be as smooth.
  7. Not recommended for block container freezing as it will become too icy without the churning process.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my ice cream icy instead of creamy?

A: Make sure you're churning it in an ice cream maker rather than just freezing it in a block. The churning process incorporates air and prevents large ice crystals from forming. Using Half & Half or whipping cream (not skim milk) also helps create a creamier texture.

Q: Can I use frozen peaches?

A: Fresh peaches work best for this recipe as they have better flavor and texture. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely and drain off excess liquid before processing, or your ice cream will be too icy.

Tips and Techniques

Use fully ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor—they should yield slightly to gentle pressure. The lemon juice isn’t just for flavor; it helps prevent the peaches from browning and brightens the overall taste. For an extra peachy flavor, add a drop or two of almond extract along with the vanilla.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Half & Half: all whipping cream
  • fresh peaches: nectarines
  • sugar: 1 1/4 cups sugar substitute designed for freezing

Equipment Needed

  • ice cream maker
  • blender or food processor
  • large mixing bowl

Historical Context

Homemade ice cream was a summer social event in the South, often made with an old-fashioned hand-crank freezer at family gatherings and church socials. Fresh peach ice cream became a staple way to use up the abundance of peaches during their short peak season.