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Smooth Watermelon Ice Cream

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This creamy, no-churn watermelon ice cream is made by folding fresh watermelon juice into whipped heavy cream with condensed milk, lime juice, and vanilla. After at least six hours in the freezer, you'll have a smooth, scoopable dessert with none of the icy crystals that plague homemade frozen treats.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 1/2 cups watermelon cubed and deseeded before blending
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 1/4 cups heavy cream Horizon Organic recommended for richer mouthfeel
  • 12 oz condensed milk Magnolia brand preferred for best consistency
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Fine mesh sieve (optional)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Separate mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Freezer-safe container

Method
 

  1. Add the cubed, deseeded watermelon to a blender and process for approximately 30 seconds until you have a completely smooth juice. If you want an even smoother final texture, pass the blended watermelon through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp, though this is entirely optional.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream using an electric mixer set to medium-high speed. Continue beating for about 6 minutes, watching closely as you near the end, until the cream forms soft peaks that hold their shape but still droop slightly at the tips. Be careful not to overbeat, as this will turn the cream into butter.
  3. Take a separate bowl and combine the watermelon juice from the first step with the condensed milk, lime juice, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the mixture is well blended. The lime juice will brighten the watermelon and balance the sweetness, while the salt enhances all the flavors and the vanilla adds subtle complexity.
  4. Using a rubber spatula, carefully fold the watermelon-condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream with a gentle lifting and turning motion. Continue folding just until everything is combined and no white streaks of cream remain visible. Work gently to preserve the air you've incorporated into the cream, as this is what creates the light, creamy texture and prevents the ice cream from becoming icy. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for a minimum of 6 hours or until firm enough to scoop. You can check the texture after 4 hours if desired, then return it to the freezer to finish setting.

Notes

Store the ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to two weeks, though it's best enjoyed within the first week for optimal texture and flavor. Press parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing to minimize ice crystal formation. If the ice cream becomes too firm after several days, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping. The key to preventing iciness is gentle folding to preserve the air in the whipped cream. Remove every watermelon seed before blending to avoid a gritty texture. Serve in chilled bowls topped with fresh mint and honey, or pair with grilled pound cake, shortbread cookies, or fresh summer berries.

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