Creamy homemade ice cream with a rich caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar and a warm spice kick from cinnamon, perfect for a cozy dessert or pairing with pies and cakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream is a comforting treat that brings a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. The brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like flavor, while the cinnamon infuses the ice cream with a warm, aromatic kick. It's the perfect dessert for cooler months but can be enjoyed year-round. The richness of the custard base makes each bite creamy and indulgent, while the cinnamon gives it a special touch that pairs wonderfully with a variety of baked goods, or simply as a treat on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is steaming (do not boil).
Temper the Egg Yolks:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add about ½ cup of the hot cream mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
Combine and Cook:
Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, whisking continuously. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F to 175°F).
Flavor and Strain:
Remove from heat and stir in the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
Chill the Custard:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Churn the Ice Cream:
Once chilled, churn the custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for an additional 2–3 hours to firm up before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Churn Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 240 kcal per serving
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last up to 2 weeks if kept properly stored. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it sit out for 5–10 minutes before scooping to soften it slightly.
FAQs
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! You can make this ice cream without an ice cream maker by placing the chilled custard in a shallow dish and freezing it. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.
How can I make the ice cream extra creamy?
For an even creamier texture, increase the ratio of heavy cream to milk or add more egg yolks. More fat helps create a smoother, richer consistency.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
You can substitute the brown sugar with white sugar or maple syrup, but it will change the flavor profile. Brown sugar adds a deep caramel-like taste that complements the cinnamon.
Is it possible to adjust the cinnamon flavor?
Yes! If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, you can increase the cinnamon to 1 ½ teaspoons or more, depending on your preference.
Can I add other spices to the ice cream?
Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or even ginger to the custard base for a spiced twist. These will enhance the warmth of the cinnamon.
How long does it take for the ice cream to freeze?
After churning, the ice cream should firm up in the freezer within 2–3 hours, but the texture may be softer if not left in long enough.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate?
Yes! You can fold in any mix-ins, such as crushed pecans or chocolate chips, during the last few minutes of churning in the ice cream maker.
What’s the best way to serve this ice cream?
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream pairs wonderfully with pies, cakes, or cobblers. You can also serve it in a bowl or on top of warm cinnamon rolls for a decadent dessert.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! To double the recipe, simply double the ingredients and follow the same process. You may need to churn in batches, depending on the size of your ice cream maker.
Is this ice cream suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs, so it's not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. You could try substituting dairy-free cream and egg alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary.
Conclusion
This Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream is an indulgent treat that’s perfect for those who enjoy a comforting, sweet dessert with a touch of spice. With a smooth, creamy base and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether served on its own or as a complement to other desserts, this homemade ice cream is sure to impress with its rich, cozy flavors. Enjoy the process of making it and, most importantly, the delicious results!
