Homemade Coffee Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent, café-style treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The use of instant coffee or espresso powder ensures a strong, aromatic coffee flavor without bitterness. The custard base guarantees a creamy texture, while the subtle vanilla rounds out the flavor. It’s an ideal dessert for coffee lovers and a refreshing way to enjoy your favorite brew.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons instant coffee or espresso powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large egg yolks
1/4 teaspoon salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and instant coffee powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and coffee dissolve and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and salt together until pale and slightly thickened.
3. Gradually pour about half of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F or 77°C). Do not boil.
6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
7. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
8. Cool the mixture to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled.
9. Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
10. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

Serves about 6.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4+ hours
Churning time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 5 hours (mostly chilling)

Variations

• Add chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate during the last minutes of churning.
• Swirl in caramel sauce or fudge for extra richness.
• Use flavored instant coffee powders (vanilla or hazelnut) for a twist.
• Mix in crushed biscotti or cookie pieces for texture.
• Substitute half the coffee powder with espresso for a more intense flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving. No reheating is needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can freeze the custard in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes until creamy, but texture may be less smooth.

Can I use decaffeinated coffee powder?

Absolutely, it will still deliver coffee flavor without caffeine.

How do I know when the custard is thick enough?

It should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear line when you run your finger through it.

Can I substitute heavy cream with half-and-half?

Heavy cream is preferred for creaminess, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare the custard base in advance?

Yes, the custard can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to churn.

What if my custard curdles?

Remove from heat immediately, strain it, and cool quickly to prevent further curdling.

How strong will the coffee flavor be?

The amount of instant coffee powder provides a balanced, noticeable coffee taste; adjust to your preference.

Can I use espresso shots instead of powder?

Espresso shots add extra liquid, so reduce milk slightly to compensate.

How do I store leftover ice cream?

Keep in a sealed container in the freezer to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn.

Conclusion

Homemade Coffee Ice Cream is a luxurious treat that brings the café experience to your home kitchen. Its smooth, creamy texture paired with bold coffee flavor makes it an irresistible dessert for coffee fans and ice cream lovers alike. With a straightforward custard base and simple ingredients, this recipe delivers an elegant and refreshing dessert that’s worth the wait.

Print