Mango ice cream recipe
When summer arrives and mangoes are at their juicy peak, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of homemade mango ice cream. This indulgent dessert is luxuriously creamy, bursting with vibrant mango flavor, and incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re new to homemade ice cream or a seasoned pro looking for a no-egg recipe that still delivers luscious texture and flavor, this mango ice cream is a must-try.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This mango ice cream recipe is ideal for anyone who:
Loves fruit-forward desserts that aren’t overly complicated.
Wants to skip egg-based custards but still enjoy rich, creamy ice cream.
Is searching for a refreshing tropical treat for summer entertaining or casual weeknight cravings.
Enjoys experimenting with fresh fruit in frozen desserts.
The best part? It doesn’t require a fancy list of ingredients or a culinary degree to make. If you can blend fruit and whisk a few things in a bowl, you’re more than qualified!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dreamy mango ice cream, gather the following fresh, simple ingredients:
2 cups ripe mangoes, peeled and diced (about 3 medium mangoes)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (to brighten the mango flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Each of these ingredients plays a role in creating a silky, scoopable ice cream with balanced sweetness and a bright mango profile.
Kitchen Equipment Required
Before you begin, make sure you have these tools ready:
Blender or food processor (for puréeing mangoes)
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Ice cream maker
Airtight container (for freezing and storing)
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula (optional, for scraping every last bit of mixture into the ice cream maker)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Mango Purée
Start by blending the diced mangoes until you have a smooth, velvety purée. You should end up with approximately 1½ cups of purée. If your mangoes are extra juicy, you can reduce it slightly on the stovetop to concentrate the flavor, but this step is optional.
2. Make the Cream Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved — this ensures a smooth texture without any graininess.
3. Combine Mango and Cream Mixture
Add the mango purée into the cream mixture and whisk until everything is well blended. At this point, your kitchen should smell absolutely divine!
4. Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around 20–25 minutes. It should reach a soft-serve consistency.
5. Freeze Until Firm
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and smooth the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for a firm, scoopable texture.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Use ripe, sweet mangoes such as Ataulfo or Alphonso for the best flavor. Avoid stringy or under-ripe varieties.
Don’t skip the lemon juice — it enhances the mango’s natural sweetness and adds a bright contrast.
Chill your mixture for 1–2 hours before churning for a faster freezing time and better texture.
Add-ins: Swirl in chopped mango, shredded coconut, or even a ribbon of raspberry sauce after churning for extra flair.
No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe dish, stir every 30–45 minutes for 3–4 hours until creamy.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store your mango ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent ice crystals from forming, place a layer of plastic wrap or wax paper directly on top of the ice cream before sealing the container. Let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping for best texture.
Food & Drink Pairings
Serve alongside fresh tropical fruit like pineapple, passionfruit, or lychee.
Pair with shortbread or coconut cookies for a crunch contrast.
Try it as an affogato-style dessert with a shot of chilled espresso for a tropical-coffee twist.
Sip with a glass of sparkling water, iced tea, or even mango lassi for a fruity overload.
Variations to Try
Here are a few creative spins you can put on this base recipe:
Vegan Mango Ice Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream in place of dairy. Replace sugar with maple syrup or agave.
Spiced Mango Ice Cream: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger for an Indian-inspired twist.
Mango Sorbet: Omit the dairy and increase the mango purée. Add a little extra lemon juice and sugar.
Mango-Pineapple Swirl: Add a ribbon of pineapple purée during the final few minutes of churning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen mangoes?
Yes! Thaw them first and then purée. They work great and are a convenient year-round option.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir every 30–45 minutes for a few hours. It won’t be quite as creamy, but still delicious.
Is this ice cream egg-free?
Yes! This is an eggless recipe, making it lighter and faster to prepare compared to custard-based versions.
How long does it last in the freezer?
For best flavor and texture, enjoy within 1–2 weeks. Beyond that, it may develop ice crystals or lose some flavor intensity.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes, substitute with your favorite sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. Be sure to adjust the quantity to match the sweetness level of sugar.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try for Mango Lovers
This mango ice cream is not just a dessert — it’s an experience. Bursting with sunny tropical flavors and a creamy texture that melts in your mouth, it’s a showstopper for backyard barbecues, dinner parties, or simply cooling off after a hot day.
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