Lemon Curd Ice Cream Recipe

Lemon Curd Ice Cream is the kind of treat that instantly transforms any ordinary day into something to remember. It’s impossibly creamy, bursting with tangy lemon flavor, and made with just a handful of ingredients—no ice cream maker required! Each spoonful balances the sweet richness of condensed milk and cream with lemon curd’s signature brightness, making it the ultimate summer refresher or a show-stopping dessert year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Lemon Curd Ice Cream lies in how a few simple ingredients come together to create a treat that feels utterly bakery-worthy. Each item brings something essential to the table, from creamy texture to zesty citrus flavor and a luscious finish. Here’s what you need—and why it matters:

• Lemon curd: This delivers the zesty punch and creamy, custard-like body that makes this ice cream unforgettable. Homemade has a fresh kick, but store-bought works beautifully!
• Heavy whipping cream: Provides the decadent, airy texture that makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Don’t skimp on the whipping—it’s key for smoothness!
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps create that velvety-smooth, scoopable texture—all without needing to churn or cook a custard base.
• Vanilla extract: Just a touch of vanilla rounds out the tartness of the lemon, creating layers of flavor and warmth.

How to Make Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start by grabbing your cold heavy whipping cream and pour it into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand or stand mixer, whip on high speed until stiff peaks form. This aeration is what creates that cloud-like texture—don’t stop until the cream holds its shape! Just be careful not to over-whip; you want pillowy, not grainy.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Curd Base

In a separate bowl, combine your sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and glorious lemon curd. Whisk until completely smooth. This base is where all the sunny, lemony flavor magic begins—get it silky before moving to the next step for the perfect texture later!

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Now, gently fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. The goal here is to keep as much of that airy structure as possible, so use slow, sweeping motions. For an extra pop of lemon, swirl in a few extra spoonfuls of lemon curd—these ribbons give each scoop a delightful surprise.

Step 4: Freeze

Pour the fluffy mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container you have on hand. Smooth the top, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and slide it into the freezer. Let it set for at least 6 hours or, for the creamiest results, overnight. Your patience will be rewarded with the dreamiest Lemon Curd Ice Cream imaginable!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When you’re ready to indulge, let the ice cream sit on the counter for around 5 minutes. This makes scooping effortless and ensures each serving is at the perfect, creamy temperature. Dish it up into cones, bowls, or beside a stack of buttery cookies—it’s sure to draw “wow!” reactions.

How to Serve Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Garnishes

Dress up your Lemon Curd Ice Cream with simple yet stunning garnishes. A few options? Try fresh lemon zest for added zing, a tiny handful of summer berries (blueberries or raspberries work wonders), or a scattering of crushed shortbread or meringue cookies. For a fancier look, edible flowers make it irresistible!

Side Dishes

Pairing is part of the fun. Serve your creamy dessert alongside warm, buttery pound cake, soft brioche, or delicate almond biscotti for dipping. A mug of hot tea or a glass of chilled limoncello elevates the experience, marrying beautifully with the citrus notes of the ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Lemon Curd Ice Cream is worthy of a little flair! Try layering it with fresh fruit and whipped cream in a trifle glass. Sandwich it between homemade cookies or graham crackers for a dreamy ice cream sandwich. Or, scoop it into miniature tart shells for a no-bake lemon tart that’ll wow at picnics and parties alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve satisfied your craving, simply cover the loaf pan or container tightly with plastic wrap or a well-fitted lid. Stored properly, Lemon Curd Ice Cream will keep fresh and fabulous for up to two weeks in the freezer, ready to scoop whenever inspiration (or a sweet tooth) strikes.

Freezing

For best results, freeze your ice cream in the coldest part of your freezer. Place a layer of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing—this extra step keeps ice crystals away and preserves that luscious creaminess. If you’re making it ahead for a special gathering, feel free to freeze it a few days in advance.

Reheating

Ice cream doesn’t need reheating, but if yours is rock solid, let it rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This slight softening brings out the creamy, dreamy texture and makes it easy to scoop—and possibly even more delicious than when it was first frozen!

FAQs

Can I use homemade lemon curd in this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd brings a wonderfully fresh citrus punch to the ice cream, but store-bought is a fantastic shortcut that still delivers vibrant flavor. Use whichever is easiest—you can’t go wrong.

Is an ice cream maker required for Lemon Curd Ice Cream?

No special machine needed! This is a no-churn recipe, which means the whipped cream does all the work of making the ice cream fluffy and scoopable, right from your own freezer.

How long will Lemon Curd Ice Cream last in the freezer?

Properly wrapped, your homemade ice cream will stay luscious for up to two weeks. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered to prevent freezer burn or absorbing other freezer odors.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While the classic texture relies on dairy, you can try coconut cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. The result might be slightly different, but the lemony brightness will still shine!

How do I prevent ice crystals in homemade ice cream?

Be sure to cover the surface of the ice cream with parchment or plastic wrap before sealing with a lid. This barrier keeps air and moisture out, helping Lemon Curd Ice Cream stay creamy and fabulous.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a serious upgrade to your dessert routine, make this Lemon Curd Ice Cream part of your summer (or any season!) tradition. It’s bright, fluffy, and surprisingly easy, with every spoonful bursting with sunny flavor. Don’t wait—give it a try and enjoy sharing this lovely treat with everyone you love!

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