Blue Moon ice cream is a magical treat that’s captured the hearts of Midwesterners for generations. With its distinctive blue hue and mysteriously delicious flavor that’s often described as a mix between vanilla, almond, and citrus, this homemade version brings the nostalgic ice cream parlor favorite right to your kitchen.
While the exact origin and flavor profile of Blue Moon ice cream remains somewhat of a regional mystery, this recipe captures its essence perfectly. Creamy, smooth, and with that signature blue color, it’s sure to spark curiosity and delight with every scoop.
Why You’ll Love This
- No ice cream maker required – this recipe uses a simple no-churn method
- The vibrant blue color makes for a fun dessert that kids and adults alike will adore
- Customizable sweetness level to suit your taste preferences
- Perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or anytime you want a conversation-starting dessert
- Stores beautifully in the freezer for up to two weeks
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Blue food coloring, as needed
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. Continue whisking for about 2-3 minutes to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, mixing well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the base. These extracts create that distinctive Blue Moon flavor that’s hard to describe but instantly recognizable.
- Add several drops of blue food coloring and stir well. Start with a few drops and gradually add more until you achieve the vibrant blue color characteristic of traditional Blue Moon ice cream. Remember that the color will appear lighter once frozen.
- Pour the blue mixture into your ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency. The mixture should increase in volume and become fluffy and well-incorporated.
- If using maraschino cherries, fold them gently into the churned ice cream until evenly distributed. This adds a pop of color and sweet flavor that complements the Blue Moon perfectly.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. For best results, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before securing the lid to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
- Once fully frozen, scoop the Blue Moon ice cream into bowls or ice cream cones. For an authentic experience, serve alongside other Midwest favorites like Superman ice cream or with a sprinkle of additional toppings.
Tips & Variations
- For a more authentic Blue Moon flavor, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of orange extract or replace the lemon extract with Fiori di Sicilia (a citrus and vanilla flavoring).
- If you prefer a more intense blue color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid for a more vibrant hue without affecting the texture.
- For extra fun, fold in 1/2 cup of mini marshmallows or white chocolate chips before freezing.
- Make sure all ingredients are very cold before starting to achieve the best texture.
- If you do have an ice cream maker, you can use this same flavor base with your machine’s standard vanilla ice cream recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this whimsical Blue Moon ice cream in sugar cones or waffle bowls for the full ice cream parlor experience. It pairs wonderfully with simple cookies like vanilla wafers or shortbread.
For an extra special dessert, use it to make an ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, or create a nostalgic float by adding a scoop to cream soda or root beer.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Place parchment paper directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- The ice cream is ready when it’s firm but still scoopable – if it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
FAQs
What exactly does Blue Moon ice cream taste like?
Blue Moon has a unique flavor that’s hard to pinpoint – it’s often described as a combination of almond, vanilla, and citrus notes with a hint of marshmallow.
Can I make this without artificial food coloring?
Yes! You can use natural blue food coloring made from butterfly pea flower or blue spirulina powder for a natural alternative.
Why is my ice cream not as blue as I expected?
The yellow tint from the vanilla and condensed milk can affect the final color. For a more vibrant blue, you may need to add additional food coloring or use clear vanilla extract.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and use dairy-free condensed milk. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
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