This South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream captures the essence of summer with its creamy texture and the sweetness of fresh, juicy peaches. With simple ingredients and a burst of natural peach flavor, this homemade ice cream will transport you to a Southern summer, no matter where you are. Perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a sweet ending to a summer meal!
The History of Peach Ice Cream in South Carolina
South Carolina is known for its juicy, sweet peaches. With over 18,000 acres of peach orchards, it’s no wonder the state is often referred to as the “Peach Capital” of the South. Making peach ice cream is a beloved tradition in South Carolina, especially during the peak of peach season in summer. This ice cream is a perfect way to showcase the state’s prized fruit, and homemade versions have been passed down through generations in Southern kitchens.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Fresh Peaches
Fresh peaches are the star of this recipe, providing a natural sweetness and flavor that make this ice cream truly special. The riper the peaches, the more intense the flavor.
- Pro Tip: If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use frozen or canned peaches, but fresh is always best for that authentic taste.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk
The combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a rich, creamy texture that’s essential for smooth homemade ice cream.
- Substitution Tip: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the ice cream won’t be quite as rich.
Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the ice cream while enhancing the natural flavor of the peaches.
- Pro Tip: Adjust the sugar to taste depending on how sweet your peaches are. If they’re very ripe and sweet, you may need less sugar.
How to Make South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- In a large bowl, combine the diced peaches, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the peaches to release their juices and soften.
- After the peaches have macerated, use a fork or potato masher to mash them into a chunky purée, leaving some pieces of fruit for texture.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Stir in the peach purée, making sure it’s evenly mixed into the cream base.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the peach ice cream mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes 20-30 minutes.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until creamy and frozen.
- Once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to an airtight container.
Step 4: Freeze and Serve
- Freeze the ice cream for at least 2-4 hours to allow it to firm up.
- Serve the peach ice cream in bowls or cones, and garnish with fresh peach slices or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream is perfect on its own, but you can take it up a notch by serving it with warm peach cobbler, pie, or even a grilled peach salad for a Southern-inspired dessert. Pair it with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing summer treat.
Variations and Add-Ins
Peach and Cream Ice Cream
For an extra creamy version, swirl in sweetened condensed milk before freezing for a richer texture.
Peach & Berry Ice Cream
For a fruity twist, add blueberries or raspberries to the peach mixture before churning to create a peach-berry ice cream.
Dairy-Free Peach Ice Cream
To make this ice cream dairy-free, use coconut cream and almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk. The coconut cream adds a tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the peaches.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe can be easily adapted for different dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: This ice cream is naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and almond milk as dairy substitutes.
- Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
South Carolina Homemade Peach Ice Cream Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream by freezing the mixture in a shallow dish and stirring it every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Absolutely. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed) as a substitute. The flavor will still be delicious, though fresh peaches provide the best results.
How long does homemade ice cream last in the freezer?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks of making it. Store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
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