Make creamy, tangy homemade ice cream without an ice cream maker using strawberries and kefir. This simple, no-churn recipe delivers a probiotic frozen treat fast.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:6 hr 15 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Freezing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup plain whole milk kefir
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, adjust based on strawberry sweetness)
Instructions
Prepare the strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, chop them finely. If using frozen, let them thaw slightly. In a small bowl, mix the chopped strawberries with the optional 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to draw out juices.
Whip the cream: Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream until stiff peaks form. This creates the necessary air for the no-churn texture.
Combine the base: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk kefir, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Fold together: Gently fold about one-third of the whipped cream into the kefir mixture to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining whipped cream until just combined. Do not overmix, or you will deflate the air.
Add strawberries: Gently fold in the prepared strawberry mixture, leaving some streaks of red for visual appeal.
Freeze: Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe, airtight container (a loaf pan works well). Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals, then seal the container.
Set: Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm. Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping and serving.
Notes
For a smoother texture, you can briefly blend half of the strawberries into a puree before folding them in with the chopped pieces.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, use a full-fat kefir.
This recipe is a great way to use up extra kefir and makes an easy gluten free ice cream.