Mary Berry Lemon Ice Cream Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re craving a refreshing, creamy dessert with a zesty twist, Mary Berry’s lemon ice cream recipe is the perfect treat to try!

It’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The balance of tart lemon and smooth, rich cream creates a delightful flavor combination that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Plus, with Mary Berry’s trusted expertise, you know you’re in for a dessert that’s sure to impress, whether you’re serving it up for a family gathering or a casual weekend treat.

Mary Berry Lemon Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is a delightful, refreshing dessert that balances the sharp tang of lemon with the creamy smoothness of ice cream. To create this simple yet delicious treat, you will need a few key ingredients that come together to form a luscious, smooth texture and a vibrant lemon flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Double Cream – This is the key to the creamy consistency of your ice cream. Double cream has a higher fat content than whipping cream, making it ideal for creating a rich, luxurious texture.

2. Condensed Milk – This is another essential ingredient for creating the sweet, smooth base of the ice cream. Condensed milk adds sweetness and a silky consistency, without the need for added sugar.

3. Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice is a must!

   It imparts that tangy citrus flavor that makes this ice cream so refreshingly zesty. Fresh juice ensures a vibrant, authentic taste.

4. Lemon Zest – The zest of the lemon will provide an extra layer of lemony fragrance and flavor, making the ice cream even more aromatic and intense.

5. Vanilla Extract – Though not a typical ingredient in all lemon ice creams, a hint of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing a subtle sweetness and depth to the citrusy base.

6. A Pinch of Salt – Adding a small amount of salt helps to elevate and balance the sweetness, creating a more complex and rounded flavor.

These ingredients come together effortlessly, combining to create an ice cream that’s both tangy and creamy. The use of condensed milk eliminates the need for an ice cream machine or complicated methods, making it a quick and easy dessert to prepare.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required for Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is minimal, as the recipe focuses on simplicity and ease. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create this frozen treat:

1. Mixing Bowl – A medium to large mixing bowl is essential for combining the cream, condensed milk, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla. This will be your workspace for blending everything together.

2. Electric Mixer – While you could attempt to whisk the cream by hand, an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer makes the job much easier and faster. You’ll need this to whip the cream to stiff peaks, ensuring that the ice cream has a light and airy texture.

3. Spatula – A spatula will come in handy to fold in the lemon juice, zest, and other ingredients smoothly without deflating the whipped cream.

4. Freezer-Safe Container – You’ll need a suitable container to store the ice cream in the freezer as it freezes and firms up. A shallow, rectangular, or square container is perfect for easy scooping later.

5. Plastic Wrap or Lid – To prevent ice crystals from forming and to maintain the ice cream’s smooth texture, cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid before freezing.

6. Zester or Grater – To get the fine zest from the lemon, a zester or fine grater will be needed. This helps you create the perfect citrusy garnish for your ice cream.

With these basic tools, you’ll be able to make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream with minimal hassle and maximum flavor.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream

Creating Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make this delicious dessert:

1. Prepare The Cream

   Begin by pouring the double cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks.

   Be careful not to over-whip, as this could cause the cream to turn into butter. You want a smooth, airy texture.

2. Add The Condensed Milk

   Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream. Use a spatula to mix it carefully without deflating the cream. The condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess to the base of the ice cream.

3. Incorporate Lemon Juice And Zest

   Next, add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the mixture. The lemon juice gives a sharp, tangy flavor, while the zest adds an aromatic burst of citrus. Fold these ingredients in thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Vanilla Extract And A Pinch Of Salt

   Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for subtle sweetness and complexity. Also, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness of the cream and condensed milk.

5. Freeze The Mixture

   Once the mixture is well-combined, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the freezer. Let the ice cream freeze for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and firm up.

6. Serve And Enjoy

   After the ice cream has frozen, it’s ready to be served!

   Scoop out portions into bowls or cones, and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness of your homemade lemon ice cream.

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemons – For the best flavor, always opt for fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice has a much more vibrant and zesty flavor that truly enhances the ice cream.

2. Whip the Cream Properly – Achieving the right consistency when whipping the cream is crucial. You want the cream to be light and airy, but not over-whipped. Aim for stiff peaks, which will help your ice cream achieve the perfect texture.

3. Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk – If you’re looking for extra smoothness, try chilling your mixing bowl and electric whisk in the fridge for a few minutes before starting. This can help maintain the cool temperature of the cream while whipping.

4. Layer with Toppings – While this ice cream is divine on its own, you can always add toppings for extra flavor and texture. Crushed meringue, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey can elevate the dessert even further.

5. Don’t Skip the Salt – A pinch of salt may seem unnecessary, but it works wonders to bring out the sweetness and tangy lemon flavor. It balances out the richness of the cream and condensed milk.

Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is a simple yet stunning dessert that captures the essence of fresh, vibrant lemons in every creamy bite. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create a refreshing, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation, and the fact that it doesn’t require an ice cream maker makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of skill level in the kitchen. The balance of tangy lemon and creamy sweetness offers a perfect contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

With expert tips like using fresh lemons and whipping the cream to the right consistency, you can ensure that this ice cream turns out perfect every time. Whether served as a dessert at a summer dinner party or enjoyed on a quiet afternoon, Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream

Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is already a delightful treat, with its tangy, refreshing citrus flavor and smooth, creamy texture.

But there’s always room for a little creativity in the kitchen!

Let’s explore some easy variations to make this dessert even more exciting and versatile.

1. Lemon and Blueberry Swirl Ice Cream:
   One of the simplest ways to elevate the classic Lemon Ice Cream is to incorporate a swirl of fresh blueberry compote. The tartness of the blueberries complements the lemon’s zesty flavor while adding a beautiful color contrast. To create this, simply cook some fresh blueberries with a bit of sugar until they break down into a sauce. After mixing the lemon ice cream base, gently swirl the blueberry sauce into the mixture before freezing. This variation not only adds a fruity twist but also introduces a lovely pop of color.

2. Lemon and Raspberry Ripple:
   Like the blueberry swirl, adding raspberry creates a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The raspberry flavor is vibrant and slightly tangier, making it a great match with the lemon base. You can make a raspberry ripple by puréeing fresh raspberries and mixing them with a touch of sugar. As with the blueberry, you can swirl the raspberry sauce through the ice cream after it’s partially frozen to create an eye-catching pattern and an extra layer of flavor.

3. Lemon and Ginger Ice Cream:
   For those who enjoy a bit of warmth in their desserts, adding finely grated fresh ginger or a spoonful of ground ginger can lend a spicy kick to the lemon ice cream. Ginger and lemon are both naturally zesty and aromatic, so they complement each other perfectly. The sharpness of ginger contrasts with the citrus tang, creating a complex, multidimensional flavor profile.

4. Lemon and Coconut Ice Cream:
   A tropical twist on the traditional lemon ice cream, coconut adds a creamy, rich undertone that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing citrus. You can fold in some shredded unsweetened coconut or even use coconut milk to replace part of the cream in the base for a dairy-free option. The result is a creamy, decadent ice cream with a hint of tropical flair, perfect for summer days.

5. Lemon and Mint Ice Cream:
   Adding fresh mint leaves to lemon ice cream is a simple way to introduce a cool, refreshing element. You can infuse the mint in the cream and milk mixture before mixing it with the lemon, or simply fold in finely chopped fresh mint once the ice cream is churned. The combination of lemon and mint is invigorating and light, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After enjoying a refreshing scoop or two of Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Proper storage ensures that your ice cream remains creamy, flavorful, and free from freezer burn. Here are some key best practices for storing your lemon ice cream:

1. Use an Airtight Container:
   Always store your leftover ice cream in a high-quality, airtight container. This helps prevent the ice cream from absorbing any odors from the freezer, which could interfere with its flavor. Additionally, airtight containers minimize air exposure, which can cause the ice cream to become icy or develop freezer burn over time.

2. Cover the Surface with Plastic Wrap:
   Before sealing the container, place a layer of plastic wrap directly over the surface of the ice cream. This will help reduce the formation of ice crystals, keeping your ice cream smooth and creamy. The plastic wrap prevents the ice cream from getting exposed to air, preserving its texture.

3. Store at the Right Temperature:
   Ideally, store your ice cream in the coldest part of the freezer, typically at a temperature of -18°C (0°F) or lower. This helps it remain firm and prevents it from becoming too soft or melting and refreezing, which can affect both the texture and flavor.

4. Keep It Away from the Freezer Door:
   The temperature fluctuates more frequently around the freezer door because of constant opening and closing. It’s best to store your ice cream in the main compartment, away from the door, to ensure it stays at a consistently low temperature.

5. Serve Immediately After Freezing:
   When you’re ready to serve the leftovers, it’s a good idea to let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. If it’s too hard straight from the freezer, it can become difficult to scoop.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure your leftover lemon ice cream maintains its luscious, creamy texture and tangy flavor for as long as possible.

What Goes Well With Lemon Ice Cream

Lemon Ice Cream, with its vibrant citrus flavor, pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts, fruits, and beverages. Here are some ideas to create delightful combinations:

1. Fresh Berries:
   The natural sweetness and tartness of fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries make them an excellent match for the tangy lemon ice cream. You can serve a handful of fresh berries alongside a scoop of lemon ice cream or even make a berry compote to drizzle over the ice cream. The juicy burst of fruit offers a perfect contrast to the smooth, creamy ice cream.

2. Shortbread or Biscotti:
   The crumbly texture and buttery richness of shortbread or biscotti create a nice balance with the light and zesty lemon ice cream. A few pieces of these cookies on the side will add a pleasant crunch to your dessert. For extra flair, you could crumble the shortbread over the ice cream as a topping.

3. Meringue:
   Meringue’s crisp, airy texture contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of lemon ice cream. Whether served as crumbled pieces on top or as a crunchy side, meringue adds a light sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon. You could also combine the two in a variation of the classic lemon meringue pie!

4. Lemon Curd:
   For lemon lovers, serving your ice cream with a dollop of tangy lemon curd can intensify the citrus experience. The rich, buttery lemon curd adds a creamy, tangy element that works beautifully with the lemon ice cream’s lightness. It’s a luxurious way to enhance the flavor profile and make the dessert feel even more indulgent.

5. Chocolate:
   While lemon and chocolate might not seem like the most obvious pairing, they can work incredibly well together. The richness of dark chocolate balances out the bright, zesty lemon. You could drizzle a little bit of warm, melted dark chocolate over the ice cream or add chocolate chips into the mixture for an added layer of texture and flavor.

6. Herbal Teas:
   Lemon ice cream’s refreshing quality pairs beautifully with a wide range of herbal teas. Consider serving it with a chilled glass of mint tea or a hot cup of chamomile. The natural aromas of the herbs complement the lemon’s brightness, creating a calm, soothing pairing.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream is a wonderfully refreshing treat that can easily be customized to suit various tastes and preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations like adding blueberries, ginger, or coconut, this ice cream remains a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can savor the deliciousness for longer, while pairing it with fresh berries, shortbread, or chocolate can elevate the experience even further. Whether as a simple scoop on its own or part of an elegant dessert spread, Lemon Ice Cream continues to be a timeless favorite that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream Recipe?

Mary Berry’s lemon ice cream recipe typically includes double cream, whole milk, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and egg yolks. These ingredients come together to create a rich and tangy flavor profile.

Do I Need An Ice Cream Maker To Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream?

While an ice cream maker can make the process quicker and easier, it is not strictly necessary. You can also make Mary Berry’s lemon ice cream by hand, freezing the mixture and stirring it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals.

Can I Use A Different Citrus Fruit In Place Of Lemon For This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with other citrus fruits such as lime, orange, or even grapefruit. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, so it’s worth experimenting if you’re looking for a variation.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream Dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the double cream and milk with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk. You can also replace the egg yolks with a cornstarch-based thickener if necessary.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream?

The preparation time for Mary Berry’s lemon ice cream is about 30 minutes, but you’ll need to allow several hours for the ice cream to freeze properly. If using an ice cream maker, the freezing time can be reduced to around 2-3 hours.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make a version of Mary Berry’s lemon ice cream without eggs. Simply use a substitute like cornstarch or a vegan custard base to achieve a similar creamy texture.

How Should I Store Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream?

Store the lemon ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will typically stay fresh for up to two weeks. If it gets too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Can I Add Other Ingredients Like Fruit Or Nuts To Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream?

Absolutely!

Adding fresh berries, crushed almonds, or even candied ginger can provide additional flavor and texture to the ice cream. Just fold them into the mixture gently before freezing.

What Type Of Lemons Work Best For Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream?

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe lemons that are firm to the touch and have a bright yellow skin. Meyer lemons are a great option if you’re looking for a sweeter, less acidic lemon flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Ice Cream Ahead Of Time For A Special Occasion?

Yes, you can make this lemon ice cream ahead of time. It’s ideal to prepare it a day or two before you plan to serve it so it has plenty of time to freeze and develop its flavors.