There’s something truly nostalgic about old-fashioned ice cream flavors that remind us of sunny days and simple pleasures. Our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream recipe brings together the bright citrus zing of orange with the tropical sweetness of pineapple for a refreshing treat that’s perfect any time of year.
This classic combo has been a favorite for generations, offering a delightful balance of tangy and creamy that’s hard to resist. We’ve crafted this recipe to be easy to make at home, using fresh ingredients that capture the authentic taste of vintage ice cream parlors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a cool, fruity dessert, this ice cream will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
To craft our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream, we use a selection of fresh, vibrant ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of tangy citrus and creamy richness. Below you’ll find the essentials and some optional additions to customize the flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream – for that smooth, creamy texture
- 1 cup whole milk – balances richness without overpowering
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – to sweeten just right
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest – infuses bright citrus aroma
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice – provides natural tang
- 3/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained – adds tropical sweetness and texture
- 4 large egg yolks – for classic custard base and creamy body
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – rounds out flavor complexity
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (e.g., Grand Marnier) – enhances orange flavor with a subtle warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds a hint of spice for depth
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or macadamia nuts – introduces a delightful crunch
- Pinch of salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups | Creamy, rich texture |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | Balances creaminess |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetens |
| Fresh Orange Zest | 1 tbsp | Citrus aroma and flavor |
| Fresh Orange Juice | 1/2 cup | Tangy citrus element |
| Crushed Pineapple (drained) | 3/4 cup | Tropical sweetness and texture |
| Egg Yolks | 4 large | Custard base, creamy body |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Orange Liqueur (optional) | 2 tbsp | Flavor depth |
| Ground Cinnamon (optional) | 1/4 tsp | Warm spice note |
| Chopped Nuts (optional) | 1/4 cup | Crunch and texture |
| Salt (optional) | Pinch | Balances sweetness |
Equipment Needed
To make our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Let’s gather the tools that will help us achieve that smooth, creamy texture and vibrant flavor balance.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Ice Cream Maker
This is the heart of the process. We need an ice cream maker, preferably one with a freezing bowl that chills well in advance. It churns the mixture evenly to incorporate air and prevent ice crystals, resulting in creamy, smooth ice cream.
- Mixing Bowls
We use medium and large bowls to combine ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best for temperature control.
- Whisk
A sturdy whisk helps us blend the egg yolks and sugar smoothly for a creamy custard base.
- Zester or Microplane Grater
To get the freshest orange zest flavor, a fine zester extracts just the colorful outer skin without the bitter white pith.
- Juicer
Freshly squeezed orange juice is key. A manual or electric juicer will help us extract juice cleanly and quickly.
Additional Equipment for Cooking and Cooling
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
We need this to gently heat the milk, cream, and pineapple mixture without scorching.
- Heatproof Spatula
For stirring custard continuously to prevent cooking lumps and for folding ingredients without losing airiness.
- Fine Mesh Strainer
Straining the custard improves texture by removing any cooked egg bits, ensuring silky smooth ice cream.
- Thermometer
Precision is vital in custard making. An instant-read thermometer ensures we heat to the correct temperature (usually 170°F to 175°F).
- Plastic Wrap
To cover custard immediately after cooking, we press the wrap directly onto the surface to avoid a skin forming.
Freezing & Serving Tools
- Freezer-safe Container
After churning, transferring the ice cream into an airtight container for freezing hardens the texture and develops flavor.
- Ice Cream Scoop
Using an ice cream scoop, preferably metal with a trigger release, allows for perfect serving portions.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Cream Maker | Churn ice cream to creamy texture | Freeze bowl 12-24 hrs before |
| Mixing Bowls | Combine and mix ingredients | Glass or stainless steel preferred |
| Whisk | Beat egg yolks and sugar smoothly | Sturdy and efficient |
| Zester or Microplane Grater | Extract fresh orange zest | Avoid pith |
| Juicer | Extract fresh orange juice | Manual or electric |
| Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan | Gently heat custard mixture | Prevent scorching |
| Heatproof Spatula | Stir custard and fold ingredients | Heat resistant |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Strain custard for smooth consistency | Remove lumps |
| Thermometer | Measure custard temperature | Instant-read preferred |
| Plastic Wrap | Cover custard to prevent skin formation | Press directly on surface |
| Freezer-safe Container | Store ice cream for hardening | Airtight |
| Ice Cream Scoop | Serve perfect portions | Metal with trigger release |
By preparing these key tools we ensure that each step from zesting to serving is smooth and efficient, resulting in the classic, refreshing taste of our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream.
Preparation
To achieve a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream, precise preparation of the fruit and the ice cream base is essential. Let’s start by getting our fresh ingredients ready and then move on to creating the creamy ice cream base that brings this nostalgic flavor to life.
Prepping the Fruit
- Grate the Orange Zest: Using a microplane or fine zester, carefully zest one large orange. Only zest the bright orange layer, avoiding the bitter white pith. This zest will infuse the ice cream with vibrant citrus aroma and flavor.
- Juice the Orange: Cut the orange in half and juice it using a manual or electric juicer. Measure out ½ cup of fresh orange juice. This fresh juice will add natural sweetness and tanginess.
-
Prepare the Pineapple:
- If using fresh pineapple, peel and core a medium-sized pineapple before finely crushing it, either with a food processor or by hand for texture control.
- For canned crushed pineapple, drain excess juice but reserve 2 tablespoons for optional use in the base.
- Optional Enhancements: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of orange liqueur if desired to elevate the complexity.
This fresh fruit preparation ensures the bright tropical notes of orange and pineapple shine through in every creamy bite.
Preparing the Ice Cream Base
- Mix Dairy and Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Stir gently on medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Temper the Egg Yolks:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 large egg yolks until smooth.
- Slowly pour about half a cup of the warm cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to raise their temperature gradually (this prevents scrambling).
- Combine and Cook:
- Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (170–175°F / 77–80°C on a candy thermometer).
- Strain and Cool:
- Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to catch any bits of cooked egg.
- Stir in the fresh orange zest, orange juice, crushed pineapple, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully cold.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Adds smooth texture |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetens and balances flavors |
| Egg yolks | 5 large | Creates rich custard base |
| Orange zest | From 1 large orange | Bright citrus aroma |
| Fresh orange juice | ½ cup | Adds fresh tang |
| Crushed pineapple | 1 cup | Provides tropical sweetness |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Depth of flavor |
By carefully following these steps, we create a rich, smooth custard infused with fruit that becomes the hallmark of this Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream bursting with vibrant tropical flavors and creamy texture. Each phase builds the foundation for a rich and refreshing frozen dessert.
Making the Orange Pineapple Mixture
- Zest and juice the fresh orange. Use a microplane grater to finely zest the orange, avoiding the bitter white pith. Then, juice the orange using a citrus juicer.
- Prepare the pineapple. Drain canned crushed pineapple or finely dice fresh pineapple for a natural sweet tang.
- In a medium saucepan, combine:
- Orange zest
- Orange juice (reserve a small portion for later)
- Crushed pineapple
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly reduce liquid for concentration.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the orange pineapple mixture cool completely before proceeding.
Combining the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- In a separate bowl, whisk 5 large egg yolks until smooth.
- Gradually pour about 1 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking vigorously — this step is called tempering and prevents eggs from scrambling.
- Slowly whisk the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the remaining cream.
- Transfer the combined custard back to the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat while stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula. Use a candy or instant-read thermometer to monitor temperature. Heat until the custard thickens to 170°F (77°C). It should coat the spatula with a smooth, velvety texture.
- Remove from heat and stir in:
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- The reserved orange juice from earlier
- Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove zest and any cooked egg bits.
- Gently fold in the cooled orange pineapple mixture.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the custard surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Churning the Ice Cream
- Once the custard is thoroughly chilled, pour it into the ice cream maker’s bowl.
- Churn according to your machine’s instructions, typically 20–30 minutes until the ice cream thickens and reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- For best texture, transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Press a piece of parchment paper on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm enough to scoop.
| Step | Temperature / Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Simmer Orange Pineapple Mixture | Medium heat 3–5 minutes | Stir frequently to reduce slightly |
| Custard Cooking | 170°F (77°C) | Stir constantly for smooth texture |
| Chilling | 4 hours or overnight | Cover tightly with plastic wrap |
| Churning | 20–30 minutes | Follow ice cream maker guidelines |
| Freezing After Churning | 4 hours | Use airtight container |
Pro tip: Tempering the eggs and straining the custard ensures a perfectly smooth and creamy Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream with no lumps or graininess.
Directions for Freezing and Serving
After churning the Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream, proper freezing and serving techniques are crucial to attain the perfect texture and flavor. Follow these steps for a delightful experience:
Freezing the Ice Cream
- Transfer Immediately: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency in the ice cream maker, promptly transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container. This step preserves the creamy texture and prevents ice crystals from forming.
- Smooth the Surface: Use a heatproof spatula to gently smooth the top of the ice cream in the container. This ensures even freezing and a visually appealing finish.
- Cover Tightly: Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container with its lid. This extra layer protects the ice cream from freezer burn and unwanted odors.
- Freeze Duration: Place the container in the coldest part of the freezer and freeze for at least 4 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This time allows the ice cream to harden to a scoopable consistency.
| Step | Purpose | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer | Preserve texture | Use airtight container |
| Smooth surface | Even freezing, presentation | Use spatula |
| Cover with plastic | Prevent freezer burn and odors | Wrap directly on surface |
| Freeze | Achieve scoopable firmness | 4 to 6 hours minimum |
Serving Suggestions
- Scoop Properly: Before scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly. Use a warm ice cream scoop for smooth, rounded servings.
- Presentation: Serve in chilled bowls or cones to maintain the cold temperature longer. Garnish with fresh orange zest, a few pineapple chunks, or a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts to enhance the fruity and nutty notes.
- Pairing Ideas: Complement the citrusy tropical flavors with a drizzle of orange liqueur or a dusting of ground cinnamon for added warmth and complexity.
“The key to enjoying our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream is to balance smooth creamy texture with bright tangy bursts from the fruit, and that begins right here at the freezing and serving stage.”
By carefully following these freezing and serving steps, we ensure every bite of our nostalgic orange pineapple ice cream delights with refreshing flavor and perfect creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream delivers a perfectly creamy texture and vibrant flavor, planning ahead is key. Here are our top Make-Ahead Tips to help you optimize both flavor and convenience.
Prepare the Custard Base in Advance
- Cook the custard thoroughly following the recipe steps.
- Strain the custard to remove any cooked egg solids for a smoother result.
- Cool the custard to room temperature quickly by placing the bowl in an ice bath.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to fully meld and the custard to chill completely before churning.
Prepare Fruit Mixture Ahead of Time
- Simmer and cool the orange pineapple mixture as instructed.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Add freshly prepared zest or pineapple chunks just before churning for maximum freshness if preferred.
Churn and Freeze for Optimum Texture
- Churn the well-chilled custard and fruit mixture together in the ice cream maker.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container immediately to prevent ice crystals.
- Press plastic wrap against the ice cream surface before putting on the lid to minimize air exposure.
- Freeze for 4 to 6 hours or overnight until firm and scoopable.
Serving Preparation
- Remove the ice cream from the freezer 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier scooping.
- Garnish with fresh orange zest, pineapple chunks, or toasted nuts for added texture and aroma.
| Step | Time Frame | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Custard chilling | 4 hours to overnight | Cover surface with plastic wrap |
| Fruit mixture storage | Up to 24 hours | Use airtight container |
| Freezing after churning | 4 to 6 hours or overnight | Press wrap on surface to prevent ice crystals |
| Softening before serving | 10 to 15 minutes prior | Room temperature recommended |
“Tempering your eggs carefully and chilling your custard overnight are essential make-ahead steps that guarantee the rich, creamy texture and bright citrus burst in every bite of our Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream.”
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure our ice cream is ready to impress at any gathering or whenever a nostalgic tropical treat is needed.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream brings a perfect harmony of creamy richness and bright tropical flavors that’s hard to resist. It’s a recipe that invites us to slow down and savor every spoonful, connecting us to simpler times with a fresh twist.
Whether we’re making it for a summer party or a cozy night in, the process and the result are equally rewarding. With a little patience and the right ingredients, this ice cream becomes a timeless treat that’s sure to delight everyone who tries it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream?
You’ll need heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, orange zest and juice, crushed pineapple, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Optional add-ins include orange liqueur, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and salt for extra flavor.
What equipment is required for making this ice cream?
Essential tools include an ice cream maker, mixing bowls, whisk, zester or microplane, juicer, saucepan, spatula, fine mesh strainer, thermometer, plastic wrap, and a freezer-safe container.
How do I prepare the fruit for the recipe?
Zest and juice fresh oranges, and prepare crushed pineapple (fresh or canned). Simmer these together to enhance their tropical flavors before folding into the ice cream custard base.
What is the importance of tempering the egg yolks in this recipe?
Tempering slowly warms the egg yolks by adding hot liquid gradually. This prevents curdling and helps create a smooth, creamy custard base critical for texture.
How long should the churned ice cream be frozen before serving?
Freeze the churned ice cream for at least 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve a firm, scoopable texture.
Can I prepare the ice cream mixture ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the custard base and fruit mixture in advance. Chill the custard for 4+ hours or overnight, store fruit up to 24 hours, then churn together for the best flavor and texture.
How should I serve the Old Fashioned Orange Pineapple Ice Cream?
Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature before scooping. Serve in chilled bowls or cones, garnished with fresh orange zest, pineapple chunks, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Why is fresh citrus juice and zest important in this recipe?
Fresh orange juice and zest provide bright, vibrant citrus notes that balance the creamy sweetness, creating the nostalgic, refreshing flavor this ice cream is known for.