20 Creamy 4 Quart Ice Cream Maker Recipes Irresistible

recipesforlife

April 6, 2025

When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy homemade ice cream. With the help of a 4-quart ice cream maker, you can churn out batch after batch of this frozen treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. But what makes ice cream truly irresistible is the flavor – and we’ve got just the thing to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 creamy 4-quart ice cream maker recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

From classic flavors like vanilla bean and chocolate fudge swirl, to fruity twists like strawberry cheesecake and raspberry white chocolate, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a fan of decadent mix-ins or simple, old-fashioned flavors, we’ve got the recipe for you. So grab your ice cream maker and get ready to indulge in a summer of creamy, dreamy goodness!

Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This beloved recipe yields a rich and creamy ice cream infused with the warm, comforting flavor of vanilla beans. Perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and add the split vanilla bean. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the vanilla bean.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, stir in the unsalted butter and transfer to an airtight container for freezing.

Cooking Time: None (chill time: 2 hours or overnight)

Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream

Rich Chocolate Fudge Swirl Ice Cream
This decadent ice cream recipe combines rich chocolate and creamy fudge swirled together to create a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this indulgent dessert in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– 1/4 cup fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once churned, stir in melted chocolate chips and fudge sauce to create the swirl effect.
5. Transfer ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as this recipe uses an ice cream maker. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply freeze the mixture in a shallow metal pan and blend every 30 minutes until desired consistency is reached (about 2-3 hours).

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Get ready to cool off with this creamy and dreamy Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream recipe!

Ingredients:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. Fold in sliced strawberries and confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
5. Gradually pour the cream mixture into the strawberry mixture and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Transfer the finished ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is for making ice cream, not baking.

Cookies and Cream Delight

Cookies and Cream Delight
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy and crunchy dessert! This Cookies and Cream Delight is a twist on the classic cookies and cream ice cream, transformed into a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups crushed Oreo cookies
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup softened butter
– 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
5. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Spoon the Cookies and Cream Delight into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to serve straight from the fridge.

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this refreshing mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe! Made with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a creamy and cooling treat in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the melted butter, peppermint extract, and whisk until combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once almost fully set, add in the chocolate chips and continue churning until they are fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time not included)

Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream

Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream
Salted Caramel Pecan Ice Cream: A rich and creamy dessert that combines the smoothness of caramel with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a sweet and salty package.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars have dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in kosher salt, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add chopped pecans.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus freezing time)

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
A creamy and indulgent ice cream flavor that combines the richness of peanut butter with the classic sweetness of chocolate cups. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional ice cream flavors and is perfect for peanut butter lovers.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (such as Hershey’s)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the peanut butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once the ice cream is almost fully churned, add in the vanilla extract and continue churning until fully incorporated.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Banana Pudding Ice Cream

Banana Pudding Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this creamy Banana Pudding Ice Cream! Made with ripe bananas, sweet cream, and a hint of vanilla, this unique flavor combination is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend the bananas until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add the vanilla extract to the whipped cream mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the blended bananas until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve!

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on the speed of your ice cream maker)

Coconut Mango Sorbet

Coconut Mango Sorbet
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of the tropics with this refreshing sorbet recipe. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light dessert, coconut mango sorbet is a delicious treat that’s easy to make.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, coconut cream, sugar, honey, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on your ice cream maker)

Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt

Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and tangy frozen yogurt recipe, bursting with the sweetness of blueberries and the zing of lemon. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yogurt and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the lemon juice and whisk until smooth.
3. Fold in the blueberries.
4. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the ice cream maker)

Pistachio Almond Ice Cream

Pistachio Almond Ice Cream
This creamy ice cream combines the nutty flavors of pistachios and almonds, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pistachios, sliced almonds, and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating) + 2-8 hours (chilling and freezing)

Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream

Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream
Rev up your dessert game with this rich and creamy Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream recipe, perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup instant espresso powder
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the espresso powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Pour the chilled mixture into the ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including chilling time)

Enjoy your delicious Espresso Coffee Chip Ice Cream!

Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream

Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this unique and refreshing flavor combination, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 tbsp dried lavender buds

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding lavender buds. Add blackberries and let them sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to release their juice and pulp.
4. Stir the mixture well, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (churning time varies depending on machine)

Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream

Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream
Sweeten your day with this unique and creamy ice cream flavor that combines the classic campfire treat with a rich and smooth base.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted marshmallow fluff (see note)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and whip it with an electric mixer until it becomes stiff peaks.
5. Fold in the toasted marshmallow fluff until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours from start to finish, including freezing time.

Note: To toast marshmallow fluff, spread it on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted. Allow to cool before using.

Maple Walnut Ice Cream

Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and rich Maple Walnut Ice Cream recipe. The combination of pure Canadian maple syrup and crunchy walnuts creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup and kosher salt. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped walnuts.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)

Raspberry White Chocolate Ice Cream

Raspberry White Chocolate Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy ice cream recipe that combines the freshness of raspberries with the richness of white chocolate.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup raspberry puree
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the raspberry puree and vanilla extract.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the white chocolate chips and continue to mix until they are fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Spiced Pumpkin Ice Cream

Spiced Pumpkin Ice Cream
This seasonal treat combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the creamy texture of homemade ice cream, all infused with warming spices. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)

Cherry Garcia-Inspired Ice Cream

Cherry Garcia-Inspired Ice Cream
This ice cream recipe takes inspiration from the iconic Cherry Garcia flavor, with a sweet and tangy combination of cherries and chocolate.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cherry jam
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the cherry jam and cocoa powder until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Pour the chilled mixture into the ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped maraschino cherries.
7. Transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including chilling time)

Avocado Lime Ice Cream

Avocado Lime Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing ice cream recipe that combines the creamy richness of avocados with the zesty tartness of lime. Perfect for warm weather, this vegan-friendly treat is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 1/2 cups non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Peel and pit the avocados, then mash in a blender until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, lime juice, and salt until well combined.
3. Add non-dairy milk, mashed avocado, and vanilla extract to the bowl; whisk until creamy.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including freezing time)

Bubblegum Funfetti Ice Cream

Bubblegum Funfetti Ice Cream
Add a pop of color and a burst of bubblegum flavor to your summer with this playful ice cream recipe!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup bubblegum-flavored syrup (or 2-3 drops of bubblegum extract)
– 1/2 cup funfetti sprinkles

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and bubblegum syrup (or extract).
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add funfetti sprinkles and continue to mix until they’re evenly distributed.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (as it’s an ice cream recipe!)

Enjoy your bubblegum-tastic and colorful scoop!

Summary

Indulge in the sweet world of ice cream with these 20 creamy recipes perfect for your 4-quart ice cream maker. From classic flavors like Vanilla Bean and Chocolate Fudge Swirl to unique combinations like Strawberry Cheesecake and Bubblegum Funfetti, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to Cookies and Cream Delight or Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, or get creative with Pistachio Almond, Espresso Coffee Chip, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a refreshing dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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