No-Bake Lemon Ice Cream

As the warm sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a cool, creamy dessert to beat the heat. No-bake desserts have gained immense popularity for their convenience, especially during the sweltering summer months when the thought of turning on the oven feels unbearable. Among these delightful treats, the Zesty No-Bake Lemon Ice Cream stands out, offering a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer gatherings and family celebrations. This easy-to-make recipe allows you to create luscious homemade ice cream without the need for an ice cream maker, making it an ideal choice for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices alike.

Beat the heat this summer with a refreshing Zesty No-Bake Lemon Ice Cream that requires no ice cream maker! This delightful dessert combines the bright, tangy flavors of fresh lemon juice and zest with creamy sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Easy to prepare, it's ideal for summer gatherings or a spontaneous treat. Enjoy this simple yet indulgent recipe that captures the essence of summer in every scoop!

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Ingredients

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2-3 lemons)

Zest of 2 lemons

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prep the Mixing Bowl: Start by selecting a large mixing bowl. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If you like your ice cream on the sweeter side, sprinkle in the powdered sugar. Mix all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are completely blended.

Whip the Cream: In a separate, clean bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip the cream on medium-high speed until it forms stiff peaks. This is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in a fluffy and creamy texture for your ice cream.

Fold the Mixtures: Take the whipped cream and gently fold it into the lemon mixture using a spatula. Be careful to preserve the airiness of the whipped cream to ensure the final product remains light and smooth. Continue folding until there are no visible streaks of whipped cream left, ensuring a uniform blend.

Transfer to Container: Carefully pour the lemon-cream mixture into a freezer-safe container. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even surface. To minimize ice crystal formation, you can cover the mixture with plastic wrap, pressing it down gently onto the surface.

Freeze: Cover the container with its lid or additional plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer and let it set for at least 4-6 hours, or until the ice cream is completely solid.

Serve: Once the ice cream has hardened, scoop it into bowls or cones for serving. For an added touch, feel free to garnish your ice cream with extra lemon zest or fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8

- Serving Suggestions: Consider serving this refreshing dessert on a hot summer day, alongside a slice of lemon pound cake or sprinkled with crushed graham crackers for added texture.