Making ice cream at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you have the right tools. One of the most popular and versatile tools for making ice cream is the KitchenAid stand mixer. With its powerful motor and interchangeable attachments, the KitchenAid stand mixer can help you churn out delicious homemade ice cream with ease. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer, including the necessary ingredients, equipment, and techniques.
Understanding the Basics of Ice Cream Making
Before we dive into the specifics of making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer, it’s essential to understand the basics of ice cream making. Ice cream is a frozen dessert made from a mixture of cream, sugar, and flavorings. The mixture is churned and aerated to incorporate air and break down the ice crystals, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
There are several types of ice cream, including:
- Custard-style ice cream: made with eggs, cream, and sugar
- Philadelphia-style ice cream: made with cream, sugar, and flavorings, but no eggs
- Gelato: made with milk, cream, and sugar, and churned at a slower pace to incorporate less air
For this article, we’ll focus on making Philadelphia-style ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- KitchenAid stand mixer
- Ice cream maker attachment (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
If you don’t have the ice cream maker attachment, you can still make ice cream in your KitchenAid stand mixer using the whisk attachment. However, the ice cream maker attachment is specifically designed for churning ice cream and will produce a smoother and creamier texture.
Choosing the Right Mixing Bowl
When making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer, it’s essential to use a mixing bowl that’s large enough to hold the ingredients and allow for expansion during the churning process. A stainless steel or glass bowl is recommended, as they can withstand the cold temperatures and won’t react with the ingredients.
Preparing the Ice Cream Base
Before churning the ice cream, you’ll need to prepare the ice cream base. This involves mixing the cream, milk, sugar, and flavorings together in a bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add a pinch of salt to the mixture and whisk until combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Churning the Ice Cream
Once the ice cream base is chilled, it’s time to churn the ice cream. If you have the ice cream maker attachment, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning the ice cream. If you don’t have the attachment, you can use the whisk attachment to churn the ice cream.
- Attach the ice cream maker attachment to your KitchenAid stand mixer, if using.
- Pour the chilled ice cream base into the mixing bowl and attach it to the stand mixer.
- Beat the mixture on medium to high speed until it begins to thicken and hold its shape. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Continue beating the mixture until it becomes thick and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
If you’re using the whisk attachment, you’ll need to beat the mixture for a longer period, about 10-15 minutes, until it becomes thick and creamy.
Adding Mix-ins and Flavorings
Once the ice cream is churned, you can add mix-ins and flavorings to create your desired flavor. Some popular mix-ins include:
- Chocolate chips or chunks
- Nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
- Fresh or dried fruit (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
Candy pieces (M&M’s, peanut butter cups, etc.)
Fold the mix-ins into the churned ice cream until they’re fully incorporated.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the container in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Tips and Variations for Making Ice Cream in a KitchenAid Stand Mixer
Here are some tips and variations for making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ice cream will depend on the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh and high-quality cream, milk, and flavorings for the best results.
- Experiment with different flavorings: Try adding different extracts (almond, coffee, etc.), spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.), or zests (lemon, orange, etc.) to create unique and delicious flavors.
- Add a pinch of salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the ice cream and helps to balance the sweetness.
- Don’t over-churn: Over-churning can result in ice cream that’s too dense and hard. Stop churning when the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
- Use the right mixing bowl: A stainless steel or glass bowl is recommended for making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer.
| Flavor | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Ice Cream | 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries |
| Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream | 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp peppermint extract, 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips |
Conclusion
Making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer is a fun and rewarding experience that can be customized to your desired flavors and mix-ins. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create delicious and creamy homemade ice cream that’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a sweet treat. Remember to experiment with different flavorings and mix-ins to create unique and delicious flavors. Happy churning!
What are the benefits of using a KitchenAid stand mixer to make ice cream?
Using a KitchenAid stand mixer to make ice cream offers several benefits. For one, it simplifies the process by eliminating the need for manual churning or the use of a separate ice cream maker. The mixer’s powerful motor and specialized attachments can handle the task with ease, saving you time and effort.
Additionally, the KitchenAid stand mixer allows for greater control over the ice cream’s texture and consistency. By adjusting the mixer’s speed and the churning time, you can achieve the perfect scoop every time. This level of precision is difficult to achieve with manual churning or other methods, making the KitchenAid stand mixer an ideal choice for ice cream enthusiasts.
What type of attachment do I need to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer?
To make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer, you will need the Ice Cream Maker Attachment. This attachment is specifically designed for churning and aerating ice cream mixtures, and it fits easily onto the mixer’s head. The Ice Cream Maker Attachment is available for purchase separately from KitchenAid or through authorized retailers.
When shopping for the Ice Cream Maker Attachment, make sure to select the correct model for your KitchenAid stand mixer. The attachment is designed to work with specific mixer models, so it’s essential to choose the right one to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
What ingredients do I need to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer?
The ingredients needed to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer will depend on the specific recipe you choose. However, most ice cream recipes require a combination of cream, sugar, and flavorings such as vanilla or cocoa powder. You may also need to add stabilizers like egg yolks or guar gum to improve the ice cream’s texture and prevent ice crystals from forming.
When selecting ingredients, choose high-quality options to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh cream and real sugar will produce a richer, more authentic ice cream flavor than lower-quality alternatives. Additionally, consider using natural flavorings and mix-ins to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.
How long does it take to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer?
The time it takes to make ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer will depend on the specific recipe and the mixer’s performance. Generally, the churning process takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the temperature of the mixture and the desired consistency.
Before churning, you will need to prepare the ice cream mixture by combining the ingredients and chilling them in the refrigerator. This step can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the recipe and your schedule. Once the mixture is chilled, simply attach the Ice Cream Maker Attachment to your KitchenAid stand mixer and let the machine do the work.
Can I customize my ice cream flavors and mix-ins when using a KitchenAid stand mixer?
One of the best things about making ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer is the ability to customize your flavors and mix-ins. With a wide range of ingredients and flavor combinations to choose from, you can create unique and delicious ice cream flavors that suit your tastes.
When customizing your ice cream, consider adding mix-ins like nuts, candy pieces, or fresh fruit to create interesting textures and flavor combinations. You can also experiment with different flavorings like extracts, oils, or spices to create one-of-a-kind ice cream flavors.
How do I store and serve my homemade ice cream made with a KitchenAid stand mixer?
Once your ice cream is churned, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its texture and flavor. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours. This will help the ice cream to set and become scoopable.
When serving your homemade ice cream, consider adding toppings or mix-ins like whipped cream, sprinkles, or chopped nuts to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also use your ice cream as a base for sundaes, milkshakes, or other frozen treats.
Can I make other frozen treats besides ice cream in a KitchenAid stand mixer?
While the KitchenAid stand mixer is ideal for making ice cream, you can also use it to make other frozen treats like gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. The Ice Cream Maker Attachment is versatile and can handle a range of frozen mixtures, making it a valuable addition to your kitchen arsenal.
When making other frozen treats, be sure to adjust the recipe and churning time accordingly. For example, gelato typically requires a longer churning time than ice cream, while sorbet may require a shorter churning time and a higher sugar content. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to find your favorite frozen treats.