Ina Garten Peach Ice Cream Recipe

Few things capture the taste of summer quite like homemade peach ice cream. Ina Garten’s version blends ripe, juicy peaches with creamy custard to create a dessert that’s both luxurious and refreshing.

What Is Ina Garten’s Peach Ice Cream?

This recipe combines a rich egg custard base with pureed fresh peaches, cream, and vanilla. The peaches are lightly sweetened and folded into the chilled base, then churned into a creamy, dreamy ice cream that celebrates the natural sweetness and fragrance of ripe peaches.

Other Ina Garten Dessert Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Old-Fashioned Banana Cake
• Ina Garten Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
• Ina Garten New York Egg Cream
• Ina Garten Fleur de Sel Caramel

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Peach Ice Cream

• Fresh seasonal flavor – Perfect way to enjoy ripe summer peaches
• Creamy, custard-style base – Gives it a silky texture
• Barefoot Contessa simplicity – Elegant, no unnecessary steps
• Make-ahead friendly – Stores well in the freezer
• Ideal for entertaining – Looks and tastes homemade
• No artificial flavoring – 100% real fruit and cream
• Customizable texture – Smooth or with chunks of peach

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Peach Ice Cream

• 1½ pounds ripe peaches (about 4 medium), peeled, pitted, and chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 2½ cups heavy cream
• 5 extra-large egg yolks
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Peach Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

In a medium bowl, toss chopped peaches with ¼ cup sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 30 minutes to macerate. Afterward, puree about ¾ of the peaches in a blender or food processor, leaving the rest in small chunks for texture. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan, heat milk, cream, and salt over medium heat until just below a simmer (do not boil).

In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining ¼ cup sugar until pale and thick. Slowly pour in some of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs, whisking constantly. Then pour everything back into the saucepan.

Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F).

Step 3: Strain and Cool

Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits. Stir in the vanilla extract and allow to cool to room temperature. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

Once the custard is fully chilled, stir in the pureed peaches and the reserved chopped pieces. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).

Step 5: Freeze Until Firm

Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls, cones, or over peach cobbler. Garnish with fresh peach slices or mint if desired.

What to Serve With Peach Ice Cream

• Peach cobbler or crisp – Ultimate summer dessert duo
• Buttery pound cake or shortbread – Adds texture and richness
• Fresh berries and whipped cream – Light and fruity pairing
• Iced tea or lemonade – For a cooling Southern twist
• Caramel or honey drizzle – For added sweetness
• Toasted almonds or pecans – Nutty crunch contrast
• Waffle cones or cookie cups – For fun presentation

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use very ripe peaches – They give the best flavor and sweetness
• Peel peaches easily – Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then shock in ice water
• Strain the custard – Ensures a silky-smooth base
• Chill everything thoroughly – Cold base churns better
• Add chunks at the end – Prevents them from sinking
• Don’t skip the lemon juice – It brightens the peach flavor
• Store in shallow containers – Freezes more evenly

Variations of the Recipe

• Add bourbon or amaretto – For a grown-up twist
• Stir in crushed ginger snaps or graham crackers – For texture
• Add a swirl of peach jam or honey – For visual and flavor contrast
• Use nectarines or apricots – As a peach alternative
• Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme – For a gourmet touch
• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk and coconut cream
• Top with caramelized peaches – For added elegance

How to Store Leftovers

• Store in a lidded freezer-safe container – Best within 1 week
• Press parchment against surface – Helps prevent freezer burn
• Soften slightly before scooping – Leave at room temp for 5–10 mins
• Avoid refreezing melted ice cream – It may become icy
• Label and date container – Especially if making ahead
• Use small containers – Reduces air exposure
• Keep near the back of the freezer – Where the temp stays consistent

How Do I Reuse or Serve Peach Ice Cream Creatively?

• Sandwich between cookies – For homemade ice cream sandwiches
• Blend into peach milkshakes or smoothies
• Serve with grilled peaches or fruit skewers
• Spoon over pancakes or waffles – A brunch upgrade
• Make a peach ice cream float – With ginger ale or soda water
• Scoop into tart shells and freeze – Mini ice cream pies
• Top with granola and honey – For a breakfast-style dessert

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 55mg

FAQs

Do I need to peel the peaches for Ina Garten’s peach ice cream?

Yes, peeling the peaches ensures a smooth texture and prevents chewy bits of skin in the ice cream. Blanching peaches briefly makes them easier to peel.

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Be sure to drain any excess liquid and pat them dry before pureeing.

How long should I chill the custard base before churning?

Chill the base for at least 4 hours, or overnight. A cold base ensures a smoother texture and faster churning.

How do I keep the peach chunks from becoming icy in the ice cream?

Dice the peaches finely and fold them in just before the ice cream finishes churning. This helps them stay suspended evenly and prevents them from freezing too hard.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Peach Ice Cream is the kind of dessert that brings pure joy in every bite—simple, fresh, and utterly satisfying. With its creamy base and sweet, summery peach flavor, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season.

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