- Add the cherries near the end of churning so they remain evenly distributed.
- If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess juice before adding.
- Chilling the ice cream base before churning helps create a smoother texture.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
Cherry Amaretto Ice Cream
Cherry Amaretto Ice Cream is a rich and creamy homemade dessert that blends sweet cherries with the warm almond flavor of amaretto liqueur. This elegant frozen treat features a smooth custard-style base with juicy cherry pieces throughout, making it perfect for summer desserts, dinner parties, or a gourmet-style ice cream experience at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries pitted and chopped
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional Add-ins
- Chopped almonds
- Extra cherries for topping
- Chocolate sauce drizzle
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, vanilla extract, almond extract, and amaretto liqueur.
- Slowly pour the cooled milk mixture into the cream mixture while whisking gently.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ice cream base for 1–2 hours until fully chilled.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 20–25 minutes).
- During the final 5 minutes of churning, add the chopped cherries so they distribute evenly.
- Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 3–4 hours until firm.
- Scoop and serve with optional toppings such as extra cherries or chopped almonds.