Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream You’ll Fall in Love With

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is the perfect combination of creamy indulgence and fruity freshness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesecake, love the bright sweetness of strawberries, or crave a rich and velvety frozen dessert, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream You’ll Fall in Love With

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★★★★

4 from 1 reviews

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (including freezing)
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is a rich, creamy, no-churn dessert that combines the tangy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet, fresh flavor of strawberries. Swirled with real strawberry sauce and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, it delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite—no ice cream maker required!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups heavy cream, cold
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Graham Cracker Crunch:

• 6 sheets graham crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.
3. Mash lightly with a fork and let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crunch

5. In a small bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until coated.
6. Set aside for layering.

Step 3: Whip the Ice Cream Base

7. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
8. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
9. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture.

Step 4: Assemble & Freeze

10. Pour half of the ice cream base into a freezer-safe container.
11. Spoon half of the strawberry swirl over it, then sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
12. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
13. Use a knife to swirl the mixture slightly for a marbled effect.
14. Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

15. Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
16. Serve in bowls or waffle cones and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Keep frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream, dairy-free cream cheese, and condensed coconut milk.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or mixed berries for a twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-churn, frozen
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 scoop (~½ cup)
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: strawberry cheesecake ice cream, no-churn ice cream, homemade ice cream, creamy cheesecake dessert, frozen strawberry treat

What Makes This Recipe Special?

• No Ice Cream Maker Needed – Enjoy homemade ice cream without special equipment. This no-churn method is simple and hassle-free.
• Rich & Creamy Texture – The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a smooth, decadent base reminiscent of a classic cheesecake.
• Burst of Fresh Strawberries – Real strawberries provide a natural sweetness and a hint of tartness, balancing the richness perfectly.
• Graham Cracker Crunch – A buttery graham cracker swirl adds the signature cheesecake crust element, offering a delightful contrast in texture.
• Customizable & Easy to Make – Adjust the sweetness, add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, or experiment with different fruit variations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This homemade ice cream is ideal for summer gatherings, date nights, or a cozy night in. Serve it in a waffle cone, in a bowl with extra graham cracker crumbles, or as part of a layered ice cream cake.

More Strawberry-Inspired Treats to Try

For more delicious fruit-based desserts, check out Strawberry Crunch Cake or indulge in the flavors of Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake. If you love strawberries, you’ll also enjoy these Strawberry Bon Bons.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream starts with high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving the creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and authentic cheesecake flavor.

Essential Ingredients

• Fresh Strawberries (1 ½ cups, diced) – Provides natural sweetness and a vibrant, fruity flavor.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The star ingredient that gives this ice cream its signature cheesecake taste and rich texture.
• Heavy Cream (2 cups, cold) – Whips into a luscious base, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – Adds sweetness and a silky texture without the need for additional sugar.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon, optional) – Brightens the flavor and enhances the freshness of the strawberries.
• Graham Crackers (6 sheets, crushed) – Replicates the classic cheesecake crust, adding a satisfying crunch.

Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes

• Honey or Maple Syrup (1-2 tablespoons) – For a natural sweetness boost.
• White or Dark Chocolate Chips (¼ cup) – Adds an extra indulgent touch.
• Chopped Nuts (¼ cup, such as pecans or almonds) – For additional texture and a nutty contrast.
• Strawberry Sauce or Jam (¼ cup, swirled in) – Intensifies the berry flavor.

Ingredient Tips for the Best Results

• Use ripe, sweet strawberries – Fresh, in-season berries will give the best natural flavor. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain excess liquid before adding.
• Chill your mixing bowl and heavy cream – This helps achieve a stable whipped texture, resulting in ultra-creamy ice cream.
• Soften the cream cheese properly – Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to blend smoothly into the mixture.
• Don’t over-crush the graham crackers – A mix of fine crumbs and small chunks gives the best texture contrast.

With these carefully selected ingredients, your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream will have the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and fresh fruit flavor. Now, let’s move on to the simple step-by-step process to bring it all together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream at home is incredibly easy, even without an ice cream maker. Follow these simple steps to create a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed frozen treat.

Step-1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

1. Mash the strawberries – In a bowl, use a fork or potato masher to crush the strawberries slightly, releasing their juices. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend them in a food processor.
2. Enhance the flavor – Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar (if desired) and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to macerate. This process intensifies the sweetness and brings out the natural juices.

Step-2: Make the Cheesecake Base

3. Whip the heavy cream – In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This step helps create a smooth, airy texture in the finished ice cream.
4. Blend the cream cheese and condensed milk – In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth and well combined.
5. Fold in the whipped cream – Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the airiness of the whipped cream.

Step-3: Assemble the Ice Cream

6. Incorporate the strawberries – Add the macerated strawberries to the base, folding them in gently to create a balanced distribution.
7. Layer with graham crackers – In a freezer-safe container, pour half of the ice cream mixture, then sprinkle a layer of crushed graham crackers. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and top with more crumbs for extra crunch.
8. Create a swirl effect – If using strawberry sauce or jam, drizzle it over the mixture and use a knife to swirl it in for a marbled effect.

Step-4: Freeze and Serve

9. Freeze the mixture – Cover the container with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm. For the best texture, let it freeze overnight.
10. Scoop and enjoy – Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is the perfect balance of rich, creamy texture, bright fruitiness, and satisfying crunch. Every element of this recipe is carefully designed to replicate the flavors of a classic cheesecake while ensuring a smooth, scoopable consistency. Here’s why this homemade version is so irresistible.

1. The Creamy Cheesecake Base

• Whipped heavy cream creates an airy texture that prevents the ice cream from becoming too dense.
• Cream cheese gives the ice cream its signature tangy, velvety richness, making it taste just like a slice of cheesecake.
• Sweetened condensed milk eliminates the need for extra sugar while adding a smooth consistency that stays soft even after freezing.

2. Fresh Strawberry Flavor

• Macerating the strawberries (allowing them to sit with a bit of sugar) releases their natural juices, intensifying the fruity sweetness.
• Swirling in real strawberries instead of using artificial flavoring ensures a fresh, bright taste in every bite.
• A hint of lemon zest enhances the natural tartness of the berries, making the flavors pop.

3. The Perfect Textural Contrast

• Crushed graham crackers mimic the classic cheesecake crust, offering a delicious crunch that contrasts with the smooth ice cream.
• A strawberry swirl or sauce adds visual appeal and a burst of concentrated fruit flavor, making each scoop more dynamic.

4. No-Churn Simplicity with Perfect Consistency

• Unlike traditional ice cream recipes, this version doesn’t require an ice cream maker, making it accessible to everyone.
• The combination of whipped cream and condensed milk ensures a creamy, easy-to-scoop texture without the need for churning.
• Freezing the mixture for at least 6 hours allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich, well-balanced dessert.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is how easily it can be customized. Whether you’re looking to experiment with different flavors, textures, or dietary preferences, here are some delicious variations to make this recipe your own.

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Twist

• Swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed chocolate cookies or brownie chunks.
• Add mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Swirl in chocolate fudge sauce for an indulgent chocolate-strawberry experience.

2. Berry Medley Ice Cream

• Replace some or all of the strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed-berry version.
• Create a berry compote swirl by cooking your favorite berries with a little sugar until syrupy, then folding it into the ice cream before freezing.

3. Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream

• Increase the lemon zest to add a fresh, citrusy contrast to the rich cream cheese base.
• Stir in lemon curd for a bright, tangy flavor that complements the strawberries.
• Use vanilla wafer cookies instead of graham crackers for a subtle variation on the crust element.

4. Nutty Crunch Version

• Add chopped toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
• Swirl in almond butter or hazelnut spread to create a nutty depth of flavor.