Mango ice cream recipe
If you’re dreaming of homemade tropical desserts that practically transport you to sun-soaked beaches, look no further than this mango ice cream recipe. Bursting with luscious mango flavor and oh-so-creamy, this treat is a crowd-pleaser every time I make it. It strikes that perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with a hint of vanilla and lemon to really make those mangoes sing. Every spoonful feels like a little celebration, making it impossible not to adore this mango ice cream recipe from the very first taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about mango ice cream is that it relies on just a handful of simple ingredients, but each one is absolutely essential. Together, they create a velvety texture, vibrant color, and layered flavors you’ll crave all summer long.
- Ripe mangoes: The real star here! Choose fragrant, juicy mangoes at their peak for the sweetest, sunniest flavor and dazzling golden color.
- Heavy cream: This adds the necessary richness, ensuring your ice cream turns out ultra-creamy and dreamy every time.
- Whole milk: Provides a smooth texture and lightens up the finished ice cream so it’s not too heavy.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps keep the ice cream scoopable after freezing.
- Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens everything up, balancing the mango’s natural sweetness with a zingy freshness.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a gentle, warm aroma that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Mango ice cream recipe
Step 1: Make the Mango Purée
Peel and dice the ripe mangoes, then blend them into a smooth purée. You’re aiming for a gorgeously silky texture without any chunks, so blend for longer if needed. Measure out about 1 1/2 cups of this sunset-hued purée to use in your mango ice cream recipe.
Step 2: Combine Creamy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved—the mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened by the cream.
Step 3: Mix in the Mango Purée
Pour the mango purée into your creamy base. Give everything a thorough whisk to ensure the flavors blend harmoniously. This is where your kitchen really starts to smell like mango heaven!
Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
Transfer the mixture into your ice cream maker, and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It usually takes about 20–25 minutes for the mango ice cream recipe to reach a soft-serve consistency. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, see the FAQ below for a no-machine method!
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Scoop the churned ice cream into an airtight container (bonus points if you have a fun freezer-safe tub!). Smooth the top, press down a piece of parchment to prevent ice crystals, and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and scoopable.
How to Serve Mango ice cream recipe
Garnishes
This mango ice cream looks gorgeous all on its own, but I like to top mine with a few fresh mango cubes, a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. For a splash of color, a handful of chopped pistachios or a few mint leaves add a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
Pair this mango ice cream recipe with crisp buttery shortbread cookies, coconut macaroons, or delicate almond tuile biscuits for a delightful texture contrast. If you’re serving it at a party, tropical fruit salad on the side turns it into a true summer dessert spread!
Creative Ways to Present
Scoop generous balls of mango ice cream into hollowed-out mango shells for a playful, edible bowl. Or, serve small scoops inside waffle cones topped with coconut whipped cream and tropical sprinkles for a fun, kid-friendly treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover mango ice cream tightly sealed in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer. Pressing a piece of parchment or plastic wrap directly onto the surface really helps prevent ice crystals from forming and keeps the flavor fresh.
Freezing
This mango ice cream recipe can be made ahead and stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. The texture stays creamy, but always let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping for best results.
Reheating
Ice cream doesn’t need reheating, but if it’s too hard to scoop, let the container rest on the counter for several minutes to soften up. A sturdy ice cream scoop and a mug of hot water make even frozen-solid ice cream easy to serve.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just let the frozen mango chunks thaw completely before blending, and drain off any excess water. The flavor may be slightly less intense than fresh, but your mango ice cream will still be delicious.
Do I need an ice cream maker for this mango ice cream recipe?
While an ice cream maker delivers the creamiest results, you can make this mango ice cream recipe without one. After mixing, pour the mixture into a metal pan, freeze, and stir vigorously with a fork every 30 minutes until mostly set. The texture will be slightly icier but still tasty!
Is it possible to make this vegan?
You sure can! Substitute the heavy cream and milk for full-fat coconut milk or a blend of coconut cream and almond milk. Use a plant-based sweetener if preferred—just note the finished texture may be a little different, but still lovely and rich.
Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?
Definitely! Mango pairs brilliantly with pineapple, passionfruit, chopped strawberries, or swirls of raspberry jam. For crunch, stir in shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, or white chocolate chips before freezing.
How do I make sure my mango ice cream is ultra-creamy?
For the creamiest mango ice cream recipe, start with very ripe mangoes and use full-fat dairy. Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved before churning, and churn until the mixture is thick like soft serve. Lastly, freeze for long enough to really let it set up—patience pays off!
Final Thoughts
Every scoop of this mango ice cream recipe captures a burst of tropical sunshine that always brightens my day. If you’re craving a homemade dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and sure to bring smiles, give this recipe a try and share it with someone special!
