Homemade Black Cherry Almond Ice Cream – Creamy, Fruity, and Nutty

Homemade Black Cherry Almond Ice Cream is a luscious frozen treat combining sweet-tart cherries with the rich flavor of almonds. Creamy, smooth, and studded with toasted almond pieces, this ice cream is perfect for dessert, summer gatherings, or a special treat anytime. Making it at home allows you to control the sweetness and enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fruity & Fresh – Black cherries provide a vibrant, sweet-tart flavor.
Nutty Crunch – Toasted almonds add texture and depth to every bite.
Rich & Creamy – Made with a custard base for silky smooth ice cream.
Homemade Fun – Easy to prepare with or without an ice cream maker.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pitted black cherries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract
• ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cherry Purée
   In a small saucepan, combine black cherries and ¼ cup sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries release their juices and soften. Let cool slightly, then purée with a blender or food processor.
2. Make the Custard Base
   In a medium saucepan, heat milk and cream until warm (not boiling). In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until pale. Slowly pour warm milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Combine and Flavor
   Remove custard from heat and stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Allow to cool slightly, then fold in the cherry purée.
4. Chill and Freeze
   Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions. During the last few minutes of churning, add toasted almonds.
5. Freeze to Firm
   Transfer ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for 2–4 hours until firm.
6. Serve
   Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy! Garnish with extra toasted almonds or fresh cherries if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~250
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries – Frozen cherries work well and add sweetness naturally.
• Toast the Almonds – Enhances flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
• Don’t Overheat the Custard – Heat slowly to avoid curdling eggs.

Why This Recipe Works

The custard base creates a creamy texture that perfectly complements the sweet-tart cherries and crunchy almonds. The almond extract enhances the nutty flavor, making each spoonful rich, balanced, and full of layered tastes.

Homemade Black Cherry Almond Ice Cream is a delightful, creamy dessert that blends fruity sweetness with nutty richness. Perfect for summer days, special occasions, or whenever you crave a homemade frozen treat.