There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a scoop of homemade ice cream. It brings back memories of hot summer days, sticky fingers, and laughter echoing through the backyard. Among all the ice cream flavors out there, Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream holds a special place in my heart. It’s not only rich and creamy, but it’s also bursting with the sweet and slightly tart taste of ripe blackberries. The contrast of luscious cream and bright berry flavor is simply irresistible.
This blackberry ice cream recipe is one of those go-to desserts that feels fancy enough for a dinner party, but easy enough to whip up for a casual weekend treat. It’s made using just a few simple ingredients and comes together beautifully in a 5-quart ice cream maker. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe offers foolproof steps and plenty of flexibility to suit your style.
What makes this recipe especially wonderful is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make it, and you don’t need a dozen complicated ingredients either. The base is a classic mix of half and half, heavy cream, and sugar — rich, smooth, and indulgent. Add to that the natural brightness of frozen blackberries, and you’ve got yourself a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
When I first made this ice cream, I was looking for a way to use up an abundance of summer berries. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household. Now, we make it every year, and it’s one of those recipes that’s requested over and over again. It’s become a tradition — one that’s often enjoyed on the porch with friends or at the end of a long summer barbecue. Every bite feels like a celebration of the season.
Whether you’re making this for a family gathering, a casual Sunday treat, or just because you deserve a little indulgence, this blackberry ice cream will not disappoint. It’s smooth, perfectly sweet, and full of vibrant berry flavor. Trust me — you’ll be coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall head over heels for this homemade blackberry ice cream, starting with the taste. The flavor profile is rich and creamy with a tangy burst from the blackberries. This natural tartness cuts through the richness of the cream just enough to keep things balanced, refreshing, and not overly sweet. Each spoonful is a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.
Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just four ingredients — blackberries, sugar, half and half, and heavy cream — you can create a dessert that feels restaurant-worthy. There’s no need for eggs, cooking, or custard bases here. Just mix, churn, and enjoy. That’s it. It’s an ideal entry point for anyone intimidated by the idea of making ice cream from scratch.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Prefer your ice cream extra smooth? Blend the blackberry mixture until it’s completely pureed. Like a little texture? Leave some chunks of berries for a more rustic finish. Want to cut back on sugar? Use less and let the natural sweetness of the berries shine through. You can also swirl in other fruits, add chocolate chips, or top it with crushed cookies. The possibilities are endless.
Another standout quality is the ability to customize the texture. Enjoy it straight out of the ice cream maker for a soft-serve consistency, or let it firm up in the freezer for a traditional scoopable treat. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Because it uses frozen blackberries, this recipe can be made year-round — not just when berries are in season. That makes it a reliable option for summer cravings in the middle of winter or when you want to bring a little sunshine into a gloomy day.
Finally, let’s not forget the visual appeal. The deep purple hue of blackberry ice cream is absolutely stunning. It looks beautiful in a bowl or cone, especially when garnished with fresh berries or a mint leaf. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds.
All in all, this blackberry ice cream recipe checks all the boxes. It’s simple, delicious, flexible, and beautiful. What more could you ask for in a dessert?
Health Benefits of this Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream
While ice cream isn’t typically considered a health food, this homemade blackberry version offers a few nutritional perks that make it a more wholesome choice compared to many store-bought options. First and foremost, the use of real, whole ingredients gives you full control over what you’re eating. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, or colorings here — just pure, natural goodness.
Blackberries themselves are a nutritional powerhouse. These small berries are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re especially high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also contain vitamin K and manganese, both of which are essential for bone health and metabolism.
In addition to vitamins, blackberries are rich in dietary fiber. This helps promote digestive health, supports steady blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness. Even though this recipe does include sugar, the fiber from the berries helps offset blood sugar spikes, making it a slightly better option than overly processed desserts.
Blackberries also contain anthocyanins — the compounds that give them their deep color. These antioxidants have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and cognitive function support. Regular consumption of berries has even been associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases.
Now, let’s talk about the dairy components. While cream and half and half do add saturated fat, they also provide valuable nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein. These nutrients are important for maintaining strong bones, supporting muscle function, and overall health. By making your own ice cream, you can also adjust the proportions to suit your dietary needs — for example, by using more half and half and less cream to reduce fat content.
Another hidden benefit of making homemade ice cream is portion control. When you make your own, you tend to savor each bite more mindfully. You’re less likely to overindulge, especially since the process of creating something from scratch makes you appreciate it more.
Of course, this is still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. But when it comes to indulging your sweet tooth, a scoop of homemade blackberry ice cream is not only delicious — it’s also a smarter, more nourishing choice than many alternatives.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Understanding the time and effort required for a recipe helps you plan better, and luckily, this one doesn’t ask for too much. From start to finish, you can have delicious blackberry ice cream ready in under an hour, with only about 15–20 minutes of hands-on time.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Churn time: 25–40 minutes
- Freezing time (optional): 4 hours or overnight for firmer texture
Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4–5 quarts of ice cream, which equals about 16–20 servings depending on portion size. That makes it ideal for gatherings, family events, or simply stocking up your freezer with a delicious treat that lasts.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximately 1/2 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 8% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredient brands and whether you adjust the sugar or cream content. If you’re trying to reduce calories or sugar, you can experiment with natural sweeteners or use a lighter ratio of cream to half and half.
What’s great about this recipe is how scalable and adaptable it is. Need a smaller batch? Halve the ingredients. Want to boost the protein content? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder. You can truly make it your own without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients List
To make this incredibly creamy and flavorful blackberry ice cream, you’ll need just four simple ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that rich texture and vibrant flavor, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each element matters.
Ingredients (for a 5-quart ice cream maker):
- 6 cups frozen blackberries
These are the star of the show. Using frozen blackberries makes this recipe accessible year-round. They offer a naturally sweet, tangy flavor and give the ice cream its signature deep purple hue. You can use fresh blackberries if you prefer, but frozen berries make things super convenient and just as tasty. - 3 cups granulated sugar
Sugar does more than just sweeten the ice cream. It also helps create a smooth texture by lowering the freezing point of the mixture. This prevents the formation of large ice crystals, resulting in a creamier final product. If you want to adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use a substitute like honey or maple syrup. -
2 pints half and half (4 cups)
Half and half is a mix of milk and cream, providing a balance of richness and lightness. It helps round out the texture so that the ice cream isn’t too heavy but still wonderfully creamy. It also adds a lovely mouthfeel and mild dairy flavor. - 2 pints heavy whipping cream (4 cups)
Heavy cream is what gives this ice cream its luxurious, velvety texture. It contains a higher fat content, which is essential for creating a smooth, scoopable consistency. The fat also carries the berry flavor beautifully, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
These ingredients are all easy to find at any grocery store, and you don’t need any fancy brands or specialty items. If you want to add extra flair, you can throw in a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt to enhance flavor, or even a swirl of blackberry jam for added texture and sweetness.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’re already halfway to making a delicious homemade treat. Now let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to bring it all together.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Making homemade blackberry ice cream may sound like a task best left to the pros, but I promise it’s completely doable — even for beginners. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with store-bought pints. This recipe doesn’t require any complicated custards or stovetop cooking. Instead, we’re relying on the natural sweetness of the blackberries, a bit of sugar, and the magic of dairy to create something luscious, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Blackberries and Sugar
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Pour in your 6 cups of frozen blackberries and 3 cups of granulated sugar. The blackberries should be frozen but can be partially thawed if easier to work with. Stir the berries and sugar together gently until they’re well combined.
Now, the magic happens as the sugar draws out the juices from the berries. Let this mixture sit at room temperature for at least 20–30 minutes. During this time, the berries will begin to break down slightly, and the sugar will dissolve into a rich, syrupy coating. This step enhances both the texture and flavor of the final product.
For a chunkier texture, you can use a potato masher or fork to break the berries down a bit, leaving larger fruit pieces in the mix. If you prefer a smooth ice cream, use a blender or immersion blender to puree the blackberry-sugar mixture until completely smooth. This choice is totally up to you and depends on whether you like a bit of fruit texture or a silky finish in your ice cream.
Step 2: Add the Dairy
Once your blackberry and sugar mixture has become syrupy and fragrant, it’s time to add the creaminess. Pour the berry mixture into the bowl of your 5-quart ice cream maker. Then, add equal parts of 2 pints (4 cups) half and half and 2 pints (4 cups) heavy cream. Depending on the size of your machine’s fill line, you may not need every drop, so pour gradually.
Give everything a good stir with a spatula or spoon to ensure the cream and berry mixture are fully combined. The color should now be a stunning shade of purple — like a dreamy berry milkshake.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture (Optional But Recommended)
While not required, chilling your mixture in the fridge for about 1–2 hours can really help improve the final texture. A colder base means the ice cream will churn faster and more smoothly, resulting in fewer ice crystals and a creamier mouthfeel. If you’re short on time, don’t stress — you can skip this step, and your ice cream will still turn out delicious.
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
Now for the fun part. Set up your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on the model, you may need to layer ice and salt around the canister, or it may just be a plug-and-play electric model.
Pour your prepared mixture into the machine, being careful not to overfill. If you’re unsure, consult your machine’s capacity and stop just below the maximum fill line to avoid overflow during churning.
Begin churning the ice cream. This process usually takes about 25 to 40 minutes, depending on the machine and how cold your base is. You’ll notice the mixture gradually thickening, starting to resemble soft-serve ice cream as air is incorporated.
Around the 30-minute mark, start checking the consistency. It should look like soft, spoonable ice cream. If you prefer soft-serve texture, you can enjoy it right away. Otherwise, continue to the next step for a firmer result.
Step 5: Transfer and Freeze
Once the ice cream has reached your desired soft-serve consistency, turn off the machine and carefully remove the paddle. Scoop the ice cream into a freezer-safe container using a silicone spatula or ice cream scoop. You can use a metal loaf pan, a glass container, or a plastic tub with a tight-fitting lid.
Spread the ice cream evenly in the container and smooth the top. Cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming, then seal with the lid.
Place the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to firm up. This will give you that classic scoopable ice cream texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve, let the container sit on the counter for about 5–10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Use an ice cream scoop dipped in warm water for perfect round scoops.
That’s it — creamy, dreamy blackberry ice cream is ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve this Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream
Presentation can elevate your homemade ice cream experience from good to unforgettable. Even though this blackberry ice cream is stunning on its own, how you serve it can bring out even more of its charm.
First and foremost, think about the texture you prefer. If you enjoy it soft and melty, serve it straight from the machine or just minutes after freezing. For a more structured scoop, allow it to firm up fully in the freezer for several hours.
Here are some serving ideas that will make your ice cream shine:
- In classic waffle cones or sugar cones: The crisp texture pairs perfectly with the creamy consistency of the ice cream.
- Scoop it into a chilled bowl and top with fresh blackberries: A little fruit on top adds a refreshing touch and highlights the natural ingredients.
- Add a drizzle of berry syrup or honey: For an extra hit of sweetness and a bit of flair, drizzle a little homemade blackberry reduction or wildflower honey on top.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint: Not only does it add a pop of color, but the fresh aroma pairs beautifully with the berries.
- Sandwich between two soft cookies: Create your own ice cream sandwiches using chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies for a fun twist.
- Serve with a warm dessert: Pair with a slice of berry pie or a fudgy brownie for contrast in temperature and texture.
Whether you go all out with toppings or keep it simple, this ice cream is sure to be the star of any table.
Pairing Suggestions for this Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream
The beauty of blackberry ice cream is how well it complements both sweet and savory pairings. If you’re planning to serve it as part of a meal or dessert spread, consider the following ideas to take things up a notch.
Dessert Pairings
- Vanilla Pound Cake: A thick slice of dense, buttery cake pairs wonderfully with the bright tang of blackberries.
- Lemon Bars or Tarts: The citrusy zing balances the sweetness of the ice cream and enhances the berry flavor.
- Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Serve alongside strawberries or bananas dipped in dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent contrast.
- Berry Crumble or Cobbler: Top a warm berry crumble with a scoop of this ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
Beverage Pairings
- Iced Herbal Tea: Something like hibiscus or mint iced tea provides a cooling, caffeine-free option that complements the fruity flavor.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: A fizzy lemon-lime soda or seltzer can be a refreshing sidekick to a creamy dessert.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee or Cold Brew: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the ice cream beautifully.
- Milkshakes: Blend a few scoops with milk for a homemade blackberry milkshake — rich, creamy, and unforgettable.
Savory Pairings
Believe it or not, you can also use this ice cream as part of a savory dessert course. Try these bold ideas:
- Cheese Boards: Serve a small scoop alongside brie, goat cheese, and fresh figs on a charcuterie board.
- Savory Herb Cookies: Try lavender or rosemary shortbread for a unique contrast.
Pairing your blackberry ice cream with the right side or drink can enhance the entire experience and bring new dimensions to its flavor.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the most convenient things about this homemade blackberry ice cream is how well it stores. Whether you want to make it ahead for a party or keep leftovers for a mid-week treat, proper storage is the key to maintaining that creamy texture and vibrant flavor. Let’s break down the best practices for freezing, storing, and even how to “refresh” your ice cream if it’s been sitting in the freezer for a while.
How to Store
After churning your ice cream to soft-serve consistency, it’s important to transfer it immediately to a proper storage container. For the best results:
- Use an airtight, freezer-safe container. A shallow, wide container works best for even freezing and easier scooping.
- Press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This helps prevent freezer burn and unwanted ice crystals from forming.
- Label the container with the date you made it. Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 2–3 weeks for optimal flavor and texture, although it can be stored for up to a month.
Freezing for Later
If you’re making this recipe ahead of time, or if you just want to extend its shelf life, freezing properly is crucial. Here’s how to ensure the best quality over time:
- Place the container in the coldest part of your freezer, typically the back or bottom, where temperature fluctuations are minimal.
- Avoid storing it in the freezer door, which opens and closes often and can lead to inconsistent freezing.
- If you plan to serve it later for an event or dinner party, try to give it at least 4–6 hours of freezing time after churning to fully firm up.
How to Reheat or Soften
Now, “reheating” ice cream might sound a little odd, but softening it correctly is important for the best scooping experience. If your ice cream has been in the freezer for several days or more, it may be quite firm when you’re ready to serve it. Instead of microwaving it — which can cause uneven melting — follow these simple steps:
- Remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
- Dip your ice cream scoop in warm water to glide through the ice cream more easily.
If the ice cream has become too icy or developed a gritty texture over time, you can “refresh” it by letting it soften slightly, then whipping it in a stand mixer for a few minutes before refreezing. This can help improve the consistency by breaking up ice crystals and incorporating air back into the mixture.
In summary, with the right storage techniques, you can enjoy your homemade blackberry ice cream at its best for weeks to come. Just a little attention to how you freeze and handle it will keep every bite smooth, flavorful, and satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Homemade Blackberry Ice Cream
Even though this recipe is wonderfully simple, a few common missteps can affect your results. Don’t worry — none of them are dealbreakers, and with a little foresight, they’re all easy to avoid. Here’s a rundown of what to watch out for and how to sidestep the most frequent ice cream pitfalls.
1. Skipping the Sugar Maceration Time
When you mix the blackberries with sugar, it’s important to let the mixture sit until it becomes juicy and syrupy. If you skip or rush this step, you won’t get that full-bodied flavor or the smooth incorporation into the cream. Give it at least 20–30 minutes at room temperature to develop.
2. Overfilling the Ice Cream Maker
It’s tempting to pour every drop of your mixture into the machine, but resist the urge. Ice cream expands as it churns, and overfilling can cause overflow or improper mixing. Always respect your machine’s maximum fill line for best results.
3. Not Pre-Chilling the Base
While optional, chilling your mixture before churning gives your ice cream a creamier texture and speeds up the freezing process. A warm or room-temperature base can lead to longer churning times and increased risk of icy texture.
4. Under-Churning or Over-Churning
Keep a close eye on your ice cream as it churns. If you stop too soon, it may not hold its shape or freeze properly. If you go too long, it can become overly dense or start to separate. Look for that perfect soft-serve consistency — thick, fluffy, and easy to scoop.
5. Using the Wrong Storage Container
Avoid using containers that aren’t freezer-safe or that allow air to enter easily. Air exposure leads to freezer burn and a loss of creaminess. Stick to containers with tight-fitting lids, and consider adding a layer of plastic wrap on the surface for extra protection.
By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success every time you make this recipe. A little extra attention at each step can make a huge difference in the final outcome.
Pro Tips
Want to elevate your homemade blackberry ice cream to the next level? These insider tips will help you master the art of ice cream making and customize the recipe to suit your personal taste and texture preferences.
1. Blend the Blackberries for a Smoother Finish
If you’re not a fan of seeds or fruit chunks, blend the blackberry and sugar mixture until completely smooth. For the silkiest texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds before adding it to the cream.
2. Use a Mix of Fresh and Frozen Berries
If blackberries are in season, consider using a mix of fresh and frozen fruit. The frozen berries give the mixture that immediate cold temperature, while fresh berries enhance the natural, ripe flavor.
3. Add a Touch of Vanilla or Lemon Zest
A small splash of pure vanilla extract or a bit of fresh lemon zest can really elevate the flavor. Vanilla rounds out the richness, while lemon enhances the brightness of the berries.
4. Customize the Texture with Add-Ins
Feeling creative? Once your ice cream has finished churning, fold in chopped dark chocolate, crushed cookies, or swirls of jam for extra excitement. Just be sure to fold gently to preserve the texture.
5. Use an Ice Cream Storage Tub with a Spatula-Wide Opening
Having a wide, flat container makes it easier to scoop, and it helps the ice cream freeze evenly. Look for ice cream-specific storage tubs if you’re making homemade batches regularly.
These little tweaks and tricks might seem small, but they can really make a difference. Over time, you’ll find your own rhythm and preferences, turning this recipe into a signature dish that friends and family rave about.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to making ice cream from scratch, a few questions always seem to pop up. Whether you’re brand new to ice cream making or just trying this recipe for the first time, here are answers to the most commonly asked questions.
Can I use fresh blackberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Fresh blackberries work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure they’re ripe and sweet. You may want to chill them slightly before mixing with sugar to maintain a cold base for the ice cream maker.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but keep in mind that sugar doesn’t just add sweetness — it also affects the texture of the ice cream. Reducing sugar too much can lead to a harder, icier consistency. Try reducing by ½ cup to start, and adjust based on your taste and texture preferences.
What if I don’t have a 5-quart ice cream maker?
No worries. You can scale down the recipe to fit a smaller ice cream maker. Just divide the ingredients accordingly, or churn in batches. Alternatively, you can use a no-churn method by freezing the mixture in a loaf pan and stirring every 30 minutes until set.
Can I use dairy alternatives?
Yes, but the results will vary. Coconut cream, almond milk, or cashew milk can be used, but keep in mind they may not produce the same creamy texture. Look for full-fat options for the best results, and consider adding a stabilizer like a tablespoon of cornstarch.
How long does homemade ice cream last?
Homemade ice cream is best eaten within 2–3 weeks. Over time, it may develop ice crystals or lose some of its creamy texture, especially if not stored properly. Always keep it tightly sealed and stored in the coldest part of the freezer.
How can I make the ice cream less rich?
To lighten things up, you can replace some or all of the heavy cream with more half and half or whole milk. This will result in a slightly icier texture but still delicious.
What should I do if my ice cream is too icy?
This often happens if the base wasn’t cold enough or the churn time was too short. Let the mixture chill thoroughly before churning, and make sure you churn long enough to create a soft-serve texture before freezing.
Can I add other fruits?
Definitely. Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, or even peaches pair beautifully with blackberries. You can use them in equal proportions or create a custom berry blend for a new flavor experience.
Is there a way to make it scoopable straight from the freezer?
Yes. A little alcohol (like a tablespoon of honey or a sugar-based syrup) can help keep the ice cream softer. Alternatively, allow it to sit on the counter for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your ice cream maker is large enough. Just ensure you’re not exceeding the fill line. Otherwise, churn in two separate batches for best results.
These FAQs cover the most common concerns and give you the confidence to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re experimenting with new flavors or just sticking to the original, you’re set up for success.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something truly special about making your own ice cream from scratch. It’s not just about the final product, though that scoop of blackberry ice cream — rich, creamy, and full of summer berry flavor — certainly makes it all worth it. It’s about the process, too. The simple act of combining a few wholesome ingredients, watching them transform in your ice cream maker, and sharing the result with loved ones brings a kind of joy that no store-bought pint ever could.
This homemade blackberry ice cream recipe is one I come back to time and time again, not just because it’s delicious (though it absolutely is), but because it feels like a celebration. Whether it’s a warm weekend afternoon, a family cookout, or just a Tuesday night when you need a pick-me-up, this ice cream fits right in. The deep, fruity flavor of the blackberries pairs so beautifully with the creaminess of the dairy, and with just a bit of sugar to tie it all together, every bite is a balance of bold flavor and smooth texture.
What’s more, the flexibility of this recipe means it can grow with you. As you become more comfortable, you can start playing with mix-ins, swirling in sauces, or even experimenting with other fruits. Maybe next time it’s blackberry-lavender, or blackberry-chocolate chunk. Once you’ve mastered this base recipe, the possibilities are wide open.
So now it’s your turn. I hope you feel inspired and empowered to give this a try. Maybe you’ve never made ice cream before — and that’s okay! This is the perfect recipe to start with. Maybe you’re already a pro and you’re just looking for something new — in that case, this bold berry flavor will be a refreshing change from the usual vanilla or chocolate.
If you do make this blackberry ice cream, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you make it chunky or smooth? Did you add a fun topping or serve it alongside a favorite dessert? Did your family love it as much as mine does?
Feel free to leave a comment with your experience or share a photo of your finished ice cream on social media. It brings me so much joy to see your versions and hear how you made the recipe your own. And who knows — your creativity might just inspire someone else to dive into the world of homemade ice cream, too.
So go ahead, grab those berries and that ice cream maker, and get churning. Because once you’ve tasted that first spoonful — cold, creamy, bursting with blackberry goodness — you’ll know it was all worth it.
Happy scooping, and don’t forget: dessert is always a good idea.
PrintHomemade Blackberry Ice Cream – Creamy, Fresh & Easy to Make
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus optional freezing)
- Yield: 16–20 servings (about 4–5 quarts) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade blackberry ice cream is creamy, rich, and loaded with fresh berry flavor. With only four ingredients and a simple method, it’s a perfect treat for summer or any time of the year. Customize it chunky or smooth and enjoy it soft-serve style or frozen to scoopable perfection.
Ingredients
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6 cups frozen blackberries
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3 cups granulated sugar
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2 pints (4 cups) half and half
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2 pints (4 cups) heavy whipping cream
Instructions
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In a large bowl, mix blackberries and sugar. Let sit for 20–30 minutes until syrupy. Mash or blend to desired consistency.
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Add the fruit mixture to your ice cream maker.
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Pour in equal parts half and half and heavy cream until you reach the fill line.
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Churn according to manufacturer instructions for 25–40 minutes.
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Serve immediately as soft-serve or freeze for 4+ hours for scoopable texture.
Notes
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Blend and strain blackberries for a seedless texture.
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Use fresh blackberries if in season.
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Optional: Add vanilla or lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: (Churn Time): 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American