The Easiest Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream Recipe for Summer Bliss

Summer’s heat calls for a delightful lemon icebox pie ice cream that promises cool, tangy refreshment.

Creamy textures blend with zesty citrus notes in this irresistible dessert.

Rich vanilla undertones complement bright lemon flavors, creating a perfect balance.

Each spoonful whisks you to a breezy afternoon of pure indulgence.

Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this treat accessible for anyone seeking a quick sweet escape.

Chilled and smooth, this dessert will become your new warm-weather obsession.

You won’t be able to resist another scoop of this refreshing delight.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• This recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quick, delightful treat without complex techniques.
• Bursting with bright, zesty lemon flavors and cool, creamy texture, this ice cream captures the essence of refreshing summer moments and sunshine.
• Blending classic icebox pie elements with traditional ice cream creates a familiar yet exciting dessert that brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and sweet traditions.
• Easily adaptable for various occasions like backyard barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults with its playful, tangy-sweet profile.

What Goes In Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• Heavy Cream: Rich and creamy base for smooth ice cream texture.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and lightens the ice cream.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create smooth consistency.

• Lemon Zest: Adds bright, fresh citrus aroma.
• Lemon Juice: Gives tangy, sharp lemon flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides depth and subtle background sweetness.

• Graham Crackers, Shortbread Cookies: Creates classic pie-like crumbly texture and nostalgic flavor.

Making Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

Step 1: Create Smooth Cream Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar completely dissolves and creates a silky smooth mixture.

Step 2: Boost Flavor Profile

• Lemon zest
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Pure vanilla extract

Stir the ingredients until they blend harmoniously throughout the cream mixture.

Step 3: Churn Into Dreamy Texture

Pour the zesty cream blend into an ice cream maker.

Churn according to the machine’s guidelines until the mixture reaches a soft and creamy soft-serve consistency.

Step 4: Introduce Crunchy Surprise

• Crushed graham crackers
• Or crumbled shortbread cookies

Mix carefully to distribute the crunchy bits evenly throughout the creamy base.

Step 5: Prepare For Freezing

Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container.

Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating an even surface.

Step 6: Chill And Set

Cover the container with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid.

Place in the freezer for 4-6 hours or until the ice cream becomes firm and scoopable.

Step 7: Serve And Savor

Scoop the luscious lemon icebox pie ice cream into bowls or cones.

Enjoy the refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert that captures the essence of a classic icebox pie.

Pro Tips For Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• Use a microplane or fine grater to extract lemon zest without including the bitter white pith underneath.
• Ensure all dairy ingredients are cold before mixing to help create a smoother, creamier ice cream texture.
• Crush graham crackers or shortbread cookies into small, varied sizes for better distribution and textural interest.
• Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect soft consistency.
• Add a pinch of salt to enhance the lemon's brightness and balance the sweetness in the ice cream.

How To Keep Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• Transfer leftover ice cream to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Keep in the coldest part of the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Wrap the container in an additional layer of aluminum foil to create extra protection against moisture and freezer odors.
• Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping, allowing it to soften slightly for easier serving.
• If the ice cream becomes too hard, use a warmed ice cream scoop to create smooth, effortless scoops without damaging the delicate texture.

Pairings For Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• Crisp Riesling Companion: Select a chilled, slightly sweet Riesling wine that balances the pie's tangy lemon notes, enhancing the creamy dessert's bright citrus profile with its light, refreshing character.
• Lavender Shortbread Sidekick: Create a delicate lavender shortbread cookie to serve alongside the ice cream, adding subtle floral undertones that harmonize with the lemon's zingy essence and provide a crunchy textural contrast.
• Candied Citrus Garnish: Sprinkle thin, sugared lemon or orange zest strips on top of the ice cream, introducing an extra layer of citrusy brightness and a delightful crystallized crunch that elevates the dessert's overall sensory experience.
• Honey Drizzle Accent: Gently pour a light, local honey over the ice cream, creating a smooth, golden sweetness that softens the lemon's tartness and adds depth to the creamy texture.

Tasty Twists On Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a creamy, lactose-free alternative that maintains the luscious texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or chopped nuts like almonds to keep the crunchy element while accommodating wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Citrus Treat: Use coconut milk, cashew cream, and maple syrup instead of dairy ingredients, combining with aquafaba to create a smooth, egg-free ice cream base.
• Low-Sugar Version: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing calories while preserving the bright, tangy lemon flavor profile.

FAQs

• Is this ice cream recipe difficult to make?

No, it’s surprisingly simple! You only need a few ingredients and an ice cream maker. The process involves mixing, churning, and freezing – easy steps that anyone can follow.

• Do I need special equipment to make this ice cream?

Yes, an ice cream maker is essential for creating the right texture. Without it, the mixture won’t develop the creamy consistency that makes this dessert delicious.

• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is best for the brightest flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% lemon juice without added preservatives for the most authentic taste.

• How can I tell if the ice cream is fully churned?

The ice cream is ready when it reaches a soft-serve consistency and has thickened considerably. Most ice cream makers take about 20-25 minutes to churn completely.

Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream Recipe

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4.6 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy lemon icebox pie ice cream brings zesty sunshine straight to your dessert table. Cool, tangy layers meld classic pie flavors into a refreshing frozen treat that will delight you with each smooth, citrusy spoonful.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 lemon zest

Texture and Crunch:

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies

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Instructions

1. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl, whisking until sugar completely dissolves.
2. Incorporate lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the cream mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
3. Pour the infused liquid into an ice cream maker, churning at the manufacturer’s recommended settings until achieving a soft, creamy texture (approximately 20-25 minutes).
4. Gently integrate crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies throughout the partially frozen mixture, ensuring uniform incorporation.
5. Carefully transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, using a spatula to create a smooth, even surface.
6. Seal the container with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap, then place in the freezer for 4-6 hours at 0°F (-18°C) to allow complete solidification.
7. Remove from freezer 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly, then scoop into chilled bowls or crisp waffle cones for optimal enjoyment.

Notes

• Swap out regular sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for a lower glycemic index option that still provides sweetness.
• Enhance texture by toasting graham crackers before crushing, which adds a deeper, nuttier flavor profile to the ice cream.
• Use Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter, less acidic citrus note that softens the overall tanginess of the dessert.
• Consider adding a swirl of lemon curd or a sprinkle of candied lemon zest before final freezing to elevate the visual and taste complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg