20 Creamy Crux Ice Cream Maker Recipes for Summer

Carmen Eldridge

April 9, 2025

Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a cool and creamy scoop (or two) of homemade ice cream? With your trusty ice cream maker by your side, you can whip up a batch of your favorite flavors in no time. From classic vanilla bean to rich chocolate fudge swirl, we’ve rounded up 20 must-try recipes that are sure to become summer staples.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy delights, with a focus on indulgent and innovative flavors perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re a fan of fruity and refreshing or decadent and rich, there’s something for everyone in our collection of ice cream recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds do the happy dance!

Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
A timeless favorite, this classic vanilla bean ice cream recipe yields a creamy and smooth dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 Vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and kosher salt.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the vanilla bean.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze the churned ice cream for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None

Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream

Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream
Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream Recipe

Get ready to treat your taste buds to a decadent and creamy dessert with this rich chocolate fudge swirl ice cream recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate
– 1/2 cup fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Once the ice cream is almost fully set, stir in the melted semi-sweet chocolate and fudge sauce until they are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
5. Scoop and serve. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time), plus freezing time

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
This creamy ice cream combines the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of cheesecake, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a cool treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry puree
– 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg yolk

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Stir in strawberry puree and graham cracker crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg yolk; mix until combined.
4. Fold the cream cheese mixture into the strawberry mixture until well incorporated.
5. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (ice cream maker), or approximately 30 minutes if using a freezer-safe container with whisking every 15 minutes.

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe

This refreshing dessert combines the cooling flavor of mint with the richness of chocolate chips, perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chocolate chips and continue to churn until they are fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Cookies and Cream Delight

Cookies and Cream Delight
A classic dessert gets a modern twist with this creamy and crunchy Cookies and Cream Delight recipe. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup crushed cookies (such as Oreos)
– Fresh berries or whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
2. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until center is set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
7. Top with whipped cream and crushed cookies just before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream

Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream
This ice cream recipe combines the smoothness of caramel with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a salted package. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this indulgent dessert is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add caramel sauce and chopped pecans.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
Take a trip down memory lane with this creamy peanut butter cup ice cream recipe that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and vanilla. This decadent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and chocolate chips until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter-chocolate mixture to the cream mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including churning time)

Coconut Mango Sorbet

Coconut Mango Sorbet
Coconut Mango Sorbet Recipe

A refreshing twist on traditional sorbet, this Coconut Mango Sorbet combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of coconut for a unique and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, coconut, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Add honey and salt; blend until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including churning time)

Enjoy your Coconut Mango Sorbet!

Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt

Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt
A refreshing summer treat that combines the tanginess of lemon and sweetness of blueberries.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup mixed blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Fold in the blueberries and honey until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)

Pistachio Almond Ice Cream

Pistachio Almond Ice Cream
A creamy and nutty ice cream flavor combination that’s perfect for warm weather. This recipe uses fresh pistachios and sliced almonds to add texture and flavor to a rich vanilla base.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pistachios, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add sliced almonds.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (chilling time included)

Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream

Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream
This recipe combines rich espresso coffee with creamy ice cream and chunky chocolate chips, creating a decadent dessert perfect for any coffee lover.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup instant espresso powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add the espresso powder and vanilla extract to the mixture; whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chocolate chips.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container; freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream

Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream is a unique dessert perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup blackberries, pureed
– 1 tbsp dried lavender buds
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, blackberry puree, and lavender buds. Let steep for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture according to ice cream maker instructions.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (chill time included)

Banana Nutella Swirl Ice Cream

Banana Nutella Swirl Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this creamy and indulgent treat that combines the sweetness of bananas, the richness of Nutella, and a swirl of velvety goodness.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup Nutella
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the banana mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the Nutella and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (chilling time not included)

Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream
This Japanese-inspired ice cream combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea with creamy sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder (ceremonial or premium grade)
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the matcha powder and kosher salt. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a cold-process ice cream.

Raspberry White Chocolate Ice Cream

Raspberry White Chocolate Ice Cream
Combine the freshness of raspberries with the creaminess of white chocolate ice cream for a unique and delicious dessert. This recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a sweet treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the raspberries.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)

Tiramisu Ice Cream

Tiramisu Ice Cream
Tiramisu Ice Cream Recipe

Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and decadent tiramisu ice cream recipe. Rich espresso flavors combine with sweet mascarpone cheese to create a unique and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream mixture until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together brewed espresso, vanilla extract, and mascarpone cheese until smooth.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the espresso-mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including churning time)

Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream

Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream
Capture the essence of fall with this creamy pumpkin spice ice cream recipe. Perfect for a chilly autumn evening, this treat combines the warmth of pumpkin pie spices with the coolness of a refreshing scoop.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt; whisk until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, transfer ice cream to an airtight container and store in freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: Churning time depends on the type of ice cream maker used (usually around 20-30 minutes). Freezing time: at least 2 hours.

Cherry Garcia-Inspired Ice Cream

Cherry Garcia-Inspired Ice Cream
Bring the nostalgia of Cherry Garcia ice cream into your own kitchen with this creamy and fruity recipe, perfect for anyone who loves the iconic Ben & Jerry’s flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli or similar)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Stir in maraschino cherry juice to taste.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add chocolate chips and continue to mix until they’re fully incorporated.
7. Transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on the speed of your ice cream maker)

Avocado Lime Ice Cream

Avocado Lime Ice Cream
Transform your ice cream game with this unique and refreshing treat that combines the richness of avocados with the zesty tang of lime.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the avocado-lime mixture to the cream mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-4 hours (includes chilling and freezing time)

Enjoy your creamy and refreshing Avocado Lime Ice Cream!

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Ice Cream

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Ice Cream
This creamy ice cream combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of caramelized apples and a hint of crunch from chopped nuts. A perfect treat for any time of year.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 ripe apples, peeled and diced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add caramel sauce and whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in diced apples and cinnamon until evenly distributed.
4. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn ice cream according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, stir in chopped walnuts (if using).
7. Transfer ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None – this is a no-cook recipe!

Summary

Beat the summer heat with these 20 creamy crux ice cream maker recipes! From classic flavors like vanilla bean and chocolate fudge swirl, to unique twists like strawberry cheesecake and avocado lime, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in cookies and cream delight, salted caramel pecan, or peanut butter cup, or try something new with coconut mango sorbet, lemon blueberry frozen yogurt, or matcha green tea ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors, nutty textures, or rich and creamy indulgences, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Leave a Comment