Creamy Cherry Garcia Ice Cream

This creamy Cherry Garcia ice cream brings together juicy cherries and decadent dark chocolate in every bite The no churn base becomes unbelievably smooth and silky thanks to whipped cream and condensed milk Whether it is for a special gathering or a sweet midnight treat this recipe is pure delight

My favorite part is how every spoonful catches those tart cherries with chocolate flecks I made this for a summer party and it vanished before dinner could be served

Ingredients

• Heavy whipping cream: brings lush creaminess always choose well chilled cream for fast whipping
• Sweetened condensed milk: gives essential sweetness and a perfect scoopable base check for full fat versions
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor I reach for pure vanilla for the best taste
• Cherries pitted and chopped: infuse freshness and color go for ripe sweet cherries for maximum flavor
• Sugar (optional): boosts the cherry syrup especially if fruit is tart
• Dark chocolate chopped: adds that signature bittersweet crunch I love tasting a piece in each bite

Instructions

Cook the Cherries:

In a saucepan combine chopped cherries with sugar over medium heat cook for five to seven minutes until cherries release juice and soften let cool fully before using this intensifies the cherry flavor and ribbons the ice cream with color

Whip the Cream:

Pour heavy cream into a chilled mixing bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer beat the cream on medium high until stiff peaks form this stage is where the base gets ultra light and airy do not underwhip

Mix the Milk and Vanilla:

In a separate bowl combine sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract stir well so the vanilla is evenly distributed

Fold Cream into Milk Mixture:

Gently add the whipped cream to the condensed milk mixture use a spatula to fold just until they are fully blended this keeps the base fluffy and smooth

Add Cherries and Chocolate:

Fold in half of the cooled cherry mixture and the chopped dark chocolate stir gently to distribute bits throughout the base

Swirl in Extra Cherries:

Spoon the remaining cherry mixture over the top of the ice cream base use a butter knife to swirl it through for beautiful ripples of cherry in each scoop

Freeze Until Firm:

Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap freeze for at least six hours or overnight until firm enough to scoop

Cherries are my favorite in season fruit They always remind me of long afternoons spent picking fruit with my family Our kitchen would fill with their sweet aroma and this ice cream brings those moments rushing back

Storage Tips

Keep the loaf pan tightly wrapped in the freezer your ice cream stays freshest for up to two weeks If it gets too hard let it rest at room temperature for ten minutes before scooping

Ingredient Substitutions

Fresh or frozen cherries both work just be sure to pit and chop before cooking Swap dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate if you like a milder flavor Almond or coconut extract makes an interesting twist on the classic vanilla

Serving Suggestions

Pile scoops into waffle cones or bowls Sprinkle with toasted nuts or extra chocolate chips For grown ups a drizzle of cherry liqueur is outstanding

Cultural Context

Cherry Garcia is a beloved nod to the legendary rock guitarist Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead This recipe captures the spirit with homemade warmth and summer nostalgia

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in raspberries or strawberries at their peak Use white chocolate during the holidays Try a splash of almond extract for cherry almond delight

Success Stories

Friends who claimed they hated cherries ended up fighting for the last scoop My cousin even tried chunking in brownies for her own version Yes this base is that flexible

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can double the recipe Easily split between two pans or containers ready for unexpected guests Just remember to give every pan a good tightly wrapped cover so it stays creamy

This ice cream is creamy dreamy and bursting with big flavor Give it a try for your next get together or special treat

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work well. Thaw and drain them before cooking with sugar to reduce excess liquid.

→ How long does it take to freeze?

Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results and a firm, scoopable texture.

→ Can I substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate?

Absolutely. Swap in your preferred chocolate type to adjust sweetness and flavor as desired.

→ Is it necessary to whip the cream?

Whipping the cream creates a light, airy texture, resulting in a smoother, creamier dessert.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the freezer. Let soften several minutes before scooping for best texture.