Print

Homemade Lemon Ice Cream Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 62 reviews

This Homemade Lemon Ice Cream is a creamy, refreshing treat made without an ice cream maker. Combining tangy lemon zest and juice with sweetened condensed milk and whipped heavy cream, this no-churn recipe delivers a bright citrus flavor and a smooth, luscious texture perfect for warm days or any time you crave a zesty dessert.

Ingredients

Ice Cream Base

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (very cold)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1½ tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Optional Topping

  • 23 tablespoons lemon curd

Instructions

  1. Mix Lemon Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a separate medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cold heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This whipped cream adds lightness and volume to the ice cream base.
  3. Fold Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon-condensed milk mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain as much airiness as possible. Once combined, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container such as a bread pan. If desired, swirl the lemon curd on top using a toothpick for added texture and flavor.
  4. Freeze: Cover the container tightly and freeze for 4 to 6 hours until the ice cream is firm. For best serving texture, take the ice cream out of the freezer about 5 to 10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly, especially if frozen longer than 6 hours.

Notes

  • Ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping for the best volume and texture.
  • If you don’t have lemon curd, you can omit it or try swirling in a berry jam for a different flavor twist.
  • This recipe does not require an ice cream maker and is very simple to prepare.
  • For extra citrus flavor, you can increase the lemon zest to 2 tablespoons.