Mango Ice Cream Treat

Mango ice cream is a creamy and vibrant dessert that brings the taste of tropical summer straight to your freezer. This homemade treat uses just a handful of ingredients but delivers a refreshing and luxurious flavor that pleases both adults and kids. It is my go-to for summer gatherings because it is bright, refreshing, and always earns rave reviews for both taste and color.

The first time I made this was for a family picnic and everyone scraped their bowls clean. Since then, my kids always ask for this when the weather warms up.

Ingredients

• Mangoes: Ripe mangoes provide natural sweetness and intense tropical flavor Try to select mangoes that are fragrant and yield slightly when pressed for best results
• Heavy cream: Gives the ice cream a rich and creamy body Look for cream with at least 35 percent fat for a luscious texture
• Sweetened condensed milk: Supplies smooth sweetness and a velvety mouthfeel Choose a brand with a short ingredient list for quality
• Vanilla extract: Adds a soft layer of warmth and depth Real vanilla extract is best for this
• Salt: A small pinch heightens all the other flavors and makes the sweetness pop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mangoes:

Start by peeling ripe mangoes and slicing the flesh away from the pits Dice and place the fruit in a blender or food processor Puree until completely smooth for a silky texture

Mix the Base:

In a large bowl combine heavy cream sweetened condensed milk vanilla extract and salt Whisk until everything is fully blended and smooth

Combine with Mango:

Add the mango puree to the cream base Gently fold until everything is evenly mixed and the color is uniform

Chill the Mixture:

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface Refrigerate for at least two hours to ensure the ice cream is cold and ready for churning

Churn the Ice Cream:

After chilling pour the mixture into your ice cream maker Follow the machine instructions and churn for about 20 to 25 minutes until thick and creamy

Freeze:

Spoon the churned ice cream into a sturdy freezer-safe container Press a piece of parchment or plastic onto the surface Seal and freeze at least four hours until firm

Serve:

Remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature a few minutes to soften before scooping Serve in bowls or cones and enjoy the tropical burst

Bookmark

Ripe mangoes are always my favorite part to work with Their scent while peeling is heavenly and takes me right back to childhood holidays At our first summer barbecue with friends this was gone before the other desserts even made it onto the table

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Storage Tips

Store mango ice cream in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer It keeps well for up to two weeks Place a piece of parchment on the surface before sealing the lid to help prevent ice crystals If serving after several days let the ice cream soften at room temperature for five to ten minutes before scooping

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh mangoes are unavailable you can use high-quality frozen mango chunks Thaw them before pureeing For a dairy free version swap the heavy cream for full fat coconut cream and use a vegan condensed milk The flavor will shift but the texture remains creamy

Serving Suggestions

Try topping with fresh mango cubes or a sprinkle of toasted coconut Flaky sea salt brings out extra flavor or add a scoop to fruit salads for a lovely contrast This is also delicious served in a crisp waffle cone as a handheld treat

Cultural Context

Mango ice cream is beloved in many countries where mangoes are in season all summer In India mango kulfi is a traditional frozen dessert and this recipe is a simpler take on that classic It is a celebration of peak fruit and a family favorite for generations

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned mango pulp instead of fresh mangoes?

Yes, canned mango pulp can be substituted for fresh mangoes if desired. It offers convenience and ensures a consistent mango flavor—just choose a variety without added sugar when possible and adjust sweetness to taste.

→ Do I need an ice cream maker for this?

An ice cream maker produces the creamiest texture, but you can also freeze the mixture in a container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until firm. This breaks up ice crystals and improves smoothness.

→ How do I store mango ice cream for best texture?

Store mango ice cream in a lidded, freezer-safe container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals. Let it soften at room temperature before scooping for the best texture.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely! Taste your mango puree and adjust sweetness by adding or reducing the amount of condensed milk to match your fruit’s natural sugars.

→ What's the role of salt in this dish?

A pinch of salt elevates the flavors by balancing the rich sweetness of the mango and cream, making the overall profile more rounded and satisfying.