Making homemade ice cream always feels special. There's something about scooping into a creamy dessert you made yourself that just hits differently. This orange ice cream is one of those recipes that works any time of year. Sweet, tangy, and so refreshing-it's the perfect mix of creamy and citrusy.
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I first made this on a hot afternoon when Emily asked for "something cold but fruity." Honestly? Best decision ever. The whole family loved it, and now it's one of those recipes I keep in rotation no matter the season.
If you love fruity ice creams, you might also enjoy the peach blueberry ice cream for another refreshing summer treat.
Why orange ice cream is worth making at home
Orange ice cream is such a versatile dessert. It cools you down in summer but also adds a bright, cheerful note to winter days. Plus, it pairs beautifully with chocolate, cookies, and cakes, making it an easy dessert for gatherings.
And the best part? You don't need an ice cream machine for this one. Just whip, fold, freeze, and enjoy.
Ingredients you'll need
Here's what goes into this simple recipe:
- 2 cups chilled whipping cream
- ½ cup full cream or whole milk (optional, for a lighter version)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large orange, finely chopped (or use puree/juice)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- A few drops of orange extract (optional)
- A few drops of orange food color (optional)
Pro tip: The zest really makes the flavor pop, so don't skip it!
Step-by-step guide to making orange ice cream
Step 1: Whip the cream
Add chilled whipping cream to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until stiff peaks form.
Step 2: Mix in condensed milk
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Beat again on low speed until everything is combined.
Step 3: Add orange flavor
Gently fold in orange zest and finely chopped orange pieces (or puree). Be careful not to overmix-you want to keep the fluffy texture.
Step 4: Optional extras
If you like, add a few drops of orange food coloring and orange extract. Mix just enough to blend.
Step 5: Freeze
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Cover with cling wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 6: Serve
When ready to enjoy, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes. Scoop into cones or bowls and garnish with extra orange pieces if you'd like.
Variations to try
- Lemon ice cream: swap the orange for lemon and add a little extra condensed milk.
- Lime ice cream: replace the orange with lime, adjusting sweetness to your taste.
- Vegan orange ice cream: use coconut cream instead of whipping cream and coconut condensed milk.
Serving ideas
This orange ice cream is delicious on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas:
- With shortbread cookies for a buttery, citrusy bite
- Drizzled with melted white chocolate (orange-chocolate is always a win)
- Paired with chocolate lava cake or blueberry pie for a fancier dessert table
- Scooped into waffle cones for a nostalgic touch
Storage tips
Store your homemade orange ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend enjoying it within 3-4 weeks.
Tips and tricks for the best orange ice cream
- Boost the flavor: zest + extract makes the orange taste stronger. If you want it subtle, just stick to zest.
- Add texture: fold in white chocolate chips, candied orange peel, or chopped nuts before freezing.
- Easy scooping: always let the ice cream soften for a few minutes before serving-it makes scooping much smoother.
FAQs about orange ice cream
Yes, but the texture won't be as creamy. You can use sugar and milk, but condensed milk gives it that soft, scoopable consistency.
Fresh gives the best flavor, but yes, you can use juice. Just avoid ones with added sugar.
Up to 1 month, but it tastes best within the first couple of weeks.
It's great with cookies, pies, or simply drizzled with chocolate. My family loves it with a warm chocolate mug cake.
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📖 Recipe
Deliciously Orange Ice Cream – Simple Recipe for All Seasons
Sweet, tangy, and so refreshing—this homemade orange ice cream is the perfect mix of creamy and citrusy. No ice cream machine needed, just whip, fold, and freeze!
Ingredients
- 2 cups chilled whipping cream
- ½ cup full cream or whole milk (optional)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large orange, finely chopped (or use puree/juice)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- A few drops of orange extract (optional)
- A few drops of orange food color (optional)
Instructions
- Add chilled whipping cream to a large mixing bowl and whip until stiff peaks form
- Pour in sweetened condensed milk and beat on low speed until combined
- Gently fold in orange zest and chopped orange (or puree), keeping the texture fluffy
- Add food coloring and extract if using, mixing just to blend
- Transfer to a loaf pan or freezer-safe container, cover with cling wrap, and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight
- Let sit at room temp for 5–7 minutes before scooping; garnish with orange pieces if desired
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Best enjoyed within 3–4 weeks. For a flavor boost, combine zest and extract. Add-ins like white chocolate chips or candied orange peel can enhance texture.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 scoopAmount Per Serving: Calories: 210Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 40mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 0gSugar: 20gProtein: 3g
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