Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream: An Easy No-Churn Recipe
What’s full of pumpkin spice and everything nice? No-churn homemade pumpkin ice cream is a delightfully seasonal treat that’s so easy to make (without an ice cream machine!), that you’ll want to have some in your freezer all year long!
As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, your taste buds might start having those powerful pumpkin cravings! I don’t know about you, but I’ve been craving a seasonal treat like pumpkin ice cream.
And oh boy, do I have a delicious dessert for you! This creamy and flavorful dessert is not only a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of autumn, but it’s also a delightful twist on a classic frozen favorite.
You might be imagining cozy evenings at home, curled up with a blanket and a bowl of homemade pumpkin ice cream. Concocting this dessert is simpler than you might think, with just a few ingredients like pumpkin purée, spices, and cream.
Plus, you have the option to customize it to your liking by adding your choice of toppings or incorporating different cookie crumbles. 😍
Embrace the festive flavors of the fall season and treat yourself to a delightful pumpkin ice cream adventure. This scrumptious dessert will surely make you wonder why you’ve never tried it before.
Do you love all things pumpkin spice? Be sure to check out these favorite pumpkin desserts and recipes!
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Oatmeal Bites
- Pumpkin Overnight Oats
- Easy Pumpkin Waffles Recipe (+ Gluten-Free Option!)
- Easy Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Banana Bread
What is Pumpkin Ice Cream?
Pumpkin ice cream is a delightful frozen treat that combines the rich flavors of a slice of pumpkin pie with the creamy texture of the homemade ice cream base. It’s perfect for those who love pumpkin and want to enjoy this delectable fall flavor all year round.
To make pumpkin ice cream, you’ll need a few key ingredients, such as pumpkin puree, whole milk, heavy cream, and brown sugar. The pumpkin puree is typically made from canned pumpkin, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own puree from fresh pumpkins.
Spices like cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg are commonly used to enhance the pumpkin flavor and give it that cozy, autumnal feel.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Ice Cream Ingredients
It’s time to gather your ingredients to make pumpkin pie in ice cream form! Here are some basic ingredients for pumpkin ice cream – you can find the exact ingredients I used for this recipe listed below!
Pumpkin: At the heart of this dessert is pumpkin, of course! Whether you choose a canned pumpkin puree or your own from fresh pumpkins, this velvety ingredient lends a beautiful color and irresistible flavor.
Cream and Milk: This is the foundation of creamy ice cream.
Sugar: To sweeten things up, you’ll need some sugar. Brown sugar is often preferred over white sugar, as it delivers a more caramel-like taste. However, in this recipe I opted to use sweetened condensed milk as the sugar ingredient – yum!
Vanilla: A hint of vanilla in your recipe will elevate the flavor of your ice cream.
Spices: You’ll need the perfect combination of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and nutmeg – or just use pumpkin pie spice. Feel free to vary the amount according to your preferences!
Salt: Just a pinch of salt can further enhance the taste of your pumpkin ice cream. I left it out this time.
Ingredients I Used In This Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe
You likely have these simple ingredients already, but in case you don’t, here’s what you’ll need to grab from the grocery store to make homemade pumpkin pie ice cream!
Ice Cream:
- Heavy whipping cream
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Real pumpkin puree – you could always use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin!
- Vanilla extract
- Warm spices – Pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
Brown Sugar Crumble:
- Light brown sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Cinnamon
NOTE: For more recipe details, please see the recipe card at the bottom of this post!
How To Make Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe
Are you ready for the perfect fall dessert? Follow these simple steps and get ready to enjoy your own no-churn pumpkin ice cream!
Step 1
Mix your heavy cream on medium speed in a large bowl or stand mixer bowl for several minutes until you have stiff peaks.
Step 2
While your heavy cream is mixing, take a separate medium bowl and mix together your sweetened condensed milk, canned pumpkin, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
Step 3
Once your heavy cream has stiff peaks, fold in the pumpkin mixture until everything is fully incorporated. Set aside.
Step 4
In a small bowl, mix together your brown sugar crumble. Set aside.
Step 5
Line a bread loaf pan with saran wrap. This will make removing the ice cream easier when you are ready to serve.
Step 6
Time to layer everything together – this is the BEST PART!
Pour half of your ice cream mixture into your bread loaf pan. Take half of your brown sugar crumble and sprinkle that on top of the ice cream mix.
Pour the remaining half of your ice cream mixture on top of the brown sugar crumble. Add in the remaining brown sugar crumble to top off your ice cream.
Step 7
Cover the bread loaf pan with saran wrap or aluminum foil. Allow it to freeze for 5+ hours (overnight is better).
Step 8
Transfer your ice cream scoops to your favorite ice cream bowl and enjoy!
How To Serve This Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream Recipe
Pumpkin ice cream is a delightful fall treat with its creamy, smooth texture and signature pumpkin flavor. Here are some fun and interesting ways to serve this unbeatable treat!
- A la Mode – Elevate your favorite fall desserts by adding a scoop of pumpkin ice cream. Warm up some apple pie, chocolate cake, or pumpkin bread and serve the ice cream right on top. The contrast between the warm dessert and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience.
- With Cookies – Pair your pumpkin ice cream with cookies like gingersnaps, oatmeal cookies, or Biscoff cookies. These cookies complement the pumpkin flavor and add a bit of crunch to your dessert.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches – Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by spreading a layer of pumpkin ice cream between two cookies or slices of gingerbread. Wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for an hour to set before enjoying this fun and portable treat.
- Toppings – Dress up your pumpkin ice cream with toppings like caramel sauce, chopped nuts, crushed graham crackers, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. These additions will enhance the flavors and add different textures to your dessert.
- In a Cone – If you’re a fan of the classic approach, simply enjoy your pumpkin ice cream in a cone. Choose a waffle cone or sugar cone to add a touch of crunch and sweetness to your creamy dessert.
Try these serving suggestions to make your pumpkin ice cream experience as enjoyable as possible. Embrace the flavors of fall and treat yourself to this delectable dessert!
Healthier Alternatives
If you love pumpkin ice cream but are looking for healthier options, consider these alternatives:
- Frozen yogurt: Replace the ice cream with a pumpkin-flavored frozen yogurt (see how to make your own down below). This option often has fewer calories and fat, while still providing that delicious pumpkin taste.
- Homemade recipe: Make your own pumpkin ice cream at home, using healthier ingredients like almond or oat milk, and natural sweeteners such as honey or stevia.
- Add fruit toppings: Boost the nutritional value of your ice cream by adding slices of fruit, like apples, pears, or even more pumpkin. This can increase the fiber, vitamins, and mineral content of your dessert while adding natural sweetness.
Now that you’re familiar with the nutritional content of pumpkin ice cream and have some healthier alternatives in mind, you can make informed decisions to fit this treat into your diet. Enjoy!
Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe Variation Ideas
Adding Extras
There are many ways to personalize your pumpkin ice cream recipe and make it your own. One way to add some extra flavor and texture is by incorporating mix-ins. As you make the ice cream, consider folding in some of the following toppings:
- Crushed gingersnaps or graham crackers for added crunch
- Pecans or other nuts for a nutty twist
- Pumpkin pie spice or ground allspice to intensify the pumpkin flavor
You can also get creative with serving your ice cream. Try using it as a topping for a Thanksgiving pie or scoop it onto a warm slice of pumpkin bread.
Alternative Preparation Methods
Custard-based pumpkin ice cream: For a richer, creamier dessert, you can create a custard-based ice cream. Start by whisking egg yolks and sugar together in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream with pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie filling, and spices just until it starts to boil. Slowly whisk the hot mixture into the egg yolk mixture, then return it to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens.
If you decide to make your own, try experimenting with different spices and variations. There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing your ice cream, so don’t hesitate to get creative. Whether you’re using an ice cream maker or opting for a no-churn method, the process is enjoyable and the result is DEFINITELY worth it.
So when pumpkin season comes around this year, don’t just stop at pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread – consider whipping up a batch of pumpkin ice cream. Your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ever! There’s no need for an ice cream maker when you use a no-churn recipe! Start by whipping heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk while continuing to beat, then fold in pumpkin puree and your desired spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm. This will give you a deliciously smooth and creamy pumpkin ice cream without the need for an ice cream maker. Yum!
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try making a frozen yogurt version instead. Substitute plain Greek yogurt for heavy cream in your recipe, and consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in place of condensed milk. The pumpkin puree and spices can remain the same, and you’ll have a delicious, more nutritious frozen treat at the end. Yum!
OF COURSE it’s seasonal! But that doesn’t mean that this creamy delight isn’t just as wonderful ANY time of the year.
More Delicious No-Churn Ice Cream Recipes
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream (Easy No-Churn Recipe)
- Homemade No Churn Raspberry Ice Cream
- 3 Ingredient Frozen Banana Ice Cream With Nutella
Pumpkin Ice Cream
What's full of pumpkin spice and everything nice? Homemade pumpkin ice cream is a delightfully seasonal treat that's so easy to make, you'll want to have some in your freezer all year long!
Ingredients
- 2 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2/3 cup canned pumpkin
- 3 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, or stand mixer bowl, mix your heavy cream on medium speed for several minutes until you have stiff peaks.
- While your heavy cream is mixing, take a separate medium-size bowl, and mix together your sweetened condensed milk, canned pumpkin, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
- Once your heavy cream half stiff peaks, fold in the pumpkin mixture until everything is fully incorporated. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together your brown sugar crumble. Set aside.
- In a bread loaf pan, line it with saran wrap. This will help remove the ice cream when you are ready to serve.
- Pour half of your ice cream mixture into your bread loaf pan. Take half of your brown sugar crumble and sprinkle that on top of the ice cream mix. Pour the remaining half of your ice cream mixture on top of the brown sugar crumble. Add in the remaining brown sugar crumble to top off your ice cream.
- Cover the bread loaf pan with saran wrap or aluminum foil. Allow it to freeze for at least five hours, but preferably overnight.
- Transfer your ice cream scoops to your favorite ice cream bowl and enjoy!
