Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Recipe for Ice Cream Maker Delight

Nothing says summer nostalgia quite like the creamy, dreamy taste of an orange creamsicle. This classic frozen treat combines the bright, refreshing flavor of orange with the smooth sweetness of vanilla ice cream, creating a perfect balance that’s both tangy and rich.

Making your own orange creamsicle ice cream at home with an ice cream maker is a fun, rewarding project that delivers a fresh, natural flavor with every scoop. Plus, you get to skip the artificial ingredients found in store-bought versions!

Whether you’re hosting a summer party, looking for a refreshing dessert, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of fresh orange juice, zesty orange zest, and silky vanilla ice cream base will transport you right back to childhood days.

Ready to churn your way to creamy, citrusy goodness? Let’s dive into this delightful homemade orange creamsicle ice cream recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orange creamsicle ice cream recipe is a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh flavors. Unlike commercial ice creams, it uses real ingredients like fresh orange juice and zest, making it naturally vibrant and flavorful.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Rich and Creamy thanks to the combination of whole milk, cream, and a touch of vanilla.
• Bright Citrus Flavor from fresh oranges that make this ice cream taste fresh and natural.
• Easy to Make using a home ice cream maker, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
• Customizable — you can adjust the sweetness or add fun mix-ins like orange zest or vanilla bean specks.
• Freezer Friendly so you can enjoy it anytime and store leftovers without worry.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk (for creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for richness)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 large egg yolks (for custard base)
• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 4-5 medium oranges)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (for extra citrus punch)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for that classic creaminess)
• Pinch of salt (to balance flavors)

Equipment

• Ice cream maker (preferably with a pre-frozen bowl)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fine mesh sieve
• Citrus juicer or reamer
• Microplane or zester
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the orange juice and zest. Juice fresh oranges until you have 1 cup of juice. Zest one orange carefully to get about 1 tablespoon of zest. Set aside.
2. Make the custard base. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling (about 170°F or when you see steam rising).
3. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened.
4. Temper the eggs. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling.
5. Combine and cook. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (around 175°F). Do not let it boil.
6. Strain the custard. Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This removes any cooked egg bits for a smooth texture.
7. Add orange juice, zest, vanilla, and salt. Stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
8. Chill the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
9. Churn the ice cream. Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for 20-30 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
10. Freeze to firm up. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to harden before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the creamiest texture, use high-quality dairy and fresh oranges. If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, increase the zest or add a splash of orange liqueur like Cointreau.

• Make it vegan: Substitute coconut milk and cashew cream for dairy, and use a cornstarch slurry instead of eggs.
• Add texture: Fold in candied orange peel or white chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning.
• Swirl it: Add a ribbon of homemade orange marmalade after churning for a marmalade swirl effect.
• Use vanilla bean: For extra vanilla flavor, split a vanilla bean and scrape the seeds into the custard along with the vanilla extract.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the custard before chilling; add more sugar or a little honey if you want it sweeter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This orange creamsicle ice cream is delightful on its own, but here are a few ways to serve it for an elevated experience:

• Top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
• Serve alongside a slice of Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to balance sweetness with fresh greens.
• Pair with a simple shortbread cookie or vanilla wafer for a classic creamsicle-inspired dessert plate.
• Make an indulgent float by adding a scoop to sparkling orange soda or ginger ale.
• Use it as a topping for warm fruit cobblers or pies for a creamy contrast.

Conclusion

Making homemade orange creamsicle ice cream with an ice cream maker is a fantastic way to capture the nostalgic flavors of a summer favorite with fresh, wholesome ingredients. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy vanilla and bright orange citrus, offering a refreshing treat that’s easy to prepare and customize.

Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or trying it for the first time, the step-by-step custard base ensures a smooth, luscious texture every time.

Best of all, this recipe invites creativity — from adding mix-ins to tweaking sweetness levels — so you can make it your own. Don’t forget to check out some other delicious recipes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, or for a light meal, try the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

For a refreshing side, the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas pairs wonderfully with any summer meal.

Now, grab your ice cream maker and get ready to enjoy the luscious, tangy delight of homemade orange creamsicle ice cream — your taste buds will thank you!

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