Frozen Treats

Cheesecake Ice Cream

Name: Cheesecake Ice Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp guar gum; 1/4 tsp fine salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

By Una Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Frozen Treats

Prep30 min

Cook10 min

Total270 min

Serves6

As a child, I always looked forward to the summer months, not just for the warm weather, but also for the excuse to indulge in my favorite frozen treats. Among them, cheesecake ice cream held a special place in my heart. The combination of a crunchy graham cracker crust and the creamy, velvety texture of cheesecake-inspired ice cream was a match made in heaven.

Years later, as I began experimenting with making my own ice cream at home, I knew I had to recreate this childhood favorite. After numerous trials and errors, I finally landed on a recipe that captured the essence of cheesecake in every scoop. The key to this recipe lies in the balance of flavors and textures, from the crunch of the graham cracker crust to the smooth, creamy ice cream.

This cheesecake ice cream recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their summer dessert game. Whether you're a fan of classic cheesecake or just looking for a unique ice cream flavor, this recipe is sure to impress. With its straightforward instructions and accessible ingredients, you'll be enjoying a pint of creamy, dreamy cheesecake ice cream in no time.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding different mix-ins, such as fresh fruit or nuts, to create a unique flavor combination. Additionally, the graham cracker crust can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy summer days.

In this article, I'll guide you through the process of making cheesecake ice cream from scratch. From the initial preparation of the graham cracker crust to the final churning of the ice cream, I'll share my tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake ice cream recipe is easy to make and requires minimal special equipment.
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins and flavorings.
The graham cracker crust can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy summer days.
The ice cream itself is smooth and creamy, with a rich and indulgent flavor.
The recipe is perfect for hot summer days, as it provides a cool and refreshing treat.
The cheesecake ice cream is a unique and impressive dessert option for parties and gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this cheesecake ice cream recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the ice cream itself is smooth and creamy. The key to achieving this texture is in the tempering of the eggs and the cooking of the custard base.

Tempering the eggs is a crucial step in making ice cream, as it helps to create a smooth and even texture. By slowly adding the warm custard base to the eggs, we can prevent the eggs from scrambling and create a stable emulsion. This, in turn, helps to ensure that the ice cream will have a smooth and creamy texture.

In addition to the tempering of the eggs, the cooking of the custard base is also critical. The custard base must be cooked to a temperature of at least 170°F to ensure that it is safe to eat and to prevent the growth of bacteria. This step also helps to thicken the custard base, which is essential for creating a smooth and creamy ice cream.

Finally, the addition of a stabilizer, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, helps to improve the texture of the ice cream and prevent ice crystals from forming. This is especially important for cheesecake ice cream, as it can be prone to ice crystal formation due to its high water content.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this cheesecake ice cream, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and cream cheese. You'll also need some graham cracker crumbs to make the crust, as well as a few eggs and a stabilizer, such as guar gum or xanthan gum.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items, such as farm-fresh eggs and real vanilla extract. These will help to give your ice cream a rich and authentic flavor.

1 1/2 cups heavy creamHeavy cream is essential for creating a rich and creamy ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that is free from additives and preservatives.
1 cup whole milkWhole milk adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the ice cream. You can also use low-fat or nonfat milk if you prefer.
1/2 cup granulated sugarGranulated sugar is used to sweeten the ice cream and balance out the flavors. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
1/4 cup cream cheese, softenedCream cheese is the key to creating a cheesecake-inspired ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that is free from additives and preservatives.
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbsGraham cracker crumbs are used to make the crust for the ice cream. You can use store-bought crumbs or make your own by blending graham crackers in a food processor.
2 large eggsEggs are used to enrich the ice cream and create a smooth and creamy texture. Look for farm-fresh eggs for the best flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extractVanilla extract is used to add a touch of flavor and aroma to the ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that is free from additives and preservatives.
1/4 tsp guar gumGuar gum is used as a stabilizer to improve the texture of the ice cream and prevent ice crystals from forming. You can also use xanthan gum if you prefer.
1/4 tsp fine saltFine salt is used to balance out the flavors and add a touch of sweetness to the ice cream. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, meltedUnsalted butter is used to enrich the ice cream and create a smooth and creamy texture. Look for a high-quality brand that is free from additives and preservatives.

Equipment You’ll Need

Ice cream makerMedium saucepanHand mixerWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerFreezer-safe container with lid

How to Make Cheesecake Ice Cream

1
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and eggs until smooth. Temper the egg mixture by slowly adding the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
3
Return the saucepan to the stovetop and cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a temperature of 170°F.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and guar gum. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5
Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6
Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
7
While the ice cream is churning, prepare the graham cracker crust. In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
8
Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a freezer-safe container. Top with the churned ice cream and smooth the top.
9
Cover the container with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
10
Once the ice cream is hardened, scoop and serve. You can customize the ice cream with your favorite mix-ins, such as fresh fruit or nuts.

Expert Tips

For a smoother ice cream, make sure to temper the eggs properly and cook the custard base to the correct temperature.
Use high-quality ingredients, such as farm-fresh eggs and real vanilla extract, to give your ice cream a rich and authentic flavor.
Don't over-churn the ice cream, as this can create ice crystals and give the ice cream a grainy texture.
Experiment with different mix-ins, such as fresh fruit or nuts, to create a unique flavor combination.
Consider adding a stabilizer, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, to improve the texture of the ice cream and prevent ice crystals from forming.
For a creamier ice cream, use a higher ratio of heavy cream to whole milk.
Don't over-freeze the ice cream, as this can create ice crystals and give the ice cream a grainy texture.
Consider using a flavor extract, such as almond or coffee, to give your ice cream a unique and interesting flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not tempering the eggs properly, which can create a grainy or scrambled texture.
Not cooking the custard base to the correct temperature, which can create a soft or runny texture.
Over-churning the ice cream, which can create ice crystals and give the ice cream a grainy texture.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can give the ice cream a bland or artificial flavor.
Not adding a stabilizer, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, which can create ice crystals and give the ice cream a grainy texture.
Over-freezing the ice cream, which can create ice crystals and give the ice cream a grainy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a handful of fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, to the ice cream for a sweet and fruity flavor.
Mix in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Use a different type of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy ice cream.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ice cream for a warm and spicy flavor.
Use a different type of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, for a unique and interesting flavor.
Mix in some cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a chocolate cheesecake ice cream.
Add a handful of cookie crumbs, such as chocolate sandwich cookies or wafers, for a fun and playful texture.

What to Serve With Cheesecake Ice Cream

Cheesecake ice cream is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider pairing it with some fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a sweet and refreshing treat. You can also top it with some whipped cream or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

For a more decadent treat, consider pairing the cheesecake ice cream with some chocolate sauce or caramel sauce. You can also use it as a topping for some frozen yogurt or ice cream sandwiches.

Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberriesWhipped cream or chopped nutsChocolate sauce or caramel sauceFrozen yogurt or ice cream sandwichesCookie crumbs, such as chocolate sandwich cookies or wafersCandy pieces, such as M&M's or chopped peanut butter cups

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Cheesecake ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To store, simply scoop the ice cream into an airtight container and place it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply scoop and serve.

It's also possible to make the ice cream ahead of time and store it in the freezer for later use. Simply churn the ice cream according to the recipe, then transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply scoop and serve.

To prevent ice crystals from forming, it's a good idea to stir the ice cream every few days. You can also add a stabilizer, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, to the ice cream to help prevent ice crystals from forming.

When serving, consider letting the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. This will make it easier to scoop and serve. You can also use a warm spoon or scoop to help soften the ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of milk is best for cheesecake ice cream?

Whole milk is the best type of milk to use for cheesecake ice cream, as it provides a rich and creamy texture. However, you can also use low-fat or nonfat milk if you prefer.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use a different type of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, to give your ice cream a unique and interesting flavor. However, keep in mind that these sugars can be more expensive and may affect the texture of the ice cream.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Can I make the ice cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the ice cream ahead of time and store it in the freezer for later use. Simply churn the ice cream according to the recipe, then transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply scoop and serve.

What type of container is best for storing cheesecake ice cream?

An airtight container is the best type of container to use for storing cheesecake ice cream. This will help to prevent ice crystals from forming and keep the ice cream fresh for a longer period of time.

Can I customize the ice cream with mix-ins?

Yes, you can customize the ice cream with mix-ins, such as fresh fruit or nuts. Simply add the mix-ins to the ice cream during the last few minutes of churning, or fold them in after the ice cream has finished churning.

How long does cheesecake ice cream last?

Cheesecake ice cream can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. However, it's best to consume it within 1-2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of cream cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cream cheese, such as low-fat or nonfat cream cheese, to make the ice cream. However, keep in mind that these cream cheeses may affect the texture and flavor of the ice cream.

The Full Recipe

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