If you’re on the lookout for a luscious, tangy treat that perfectly balances creamy sweetness with zesty brightness, then this Lemon Curd Ice Cream is an absolute must-try. It’s a dreamy twist on classic ice cream that captures all the sunny, citrusy joy of lemon curd, whipped to clouds of creamy texture that melt on your tongue. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge your own dessert cravings, this lemony delight brings together simple ingredients with spectacular flavor, making each spoonful a celebration of summer and sunshine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few straightforward ingredients, this Lemon Curd Ice Cream comes together effortlessly. Each component shines in its own way, creating a harmonious blend of richness, sweetness, and that unmistakable citrus zing.

Lemon Curd (1 cup): Choose store-bought or homemade for a vibrant, tangy foundation full of fresh lemon flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups): Essential for the creamy, airy texture that makes this ice cream feel indulgent and light.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 cup): Provides natural sweetness and a silky smooth base without needing an ice cream maker.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A subtle background note that enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to the ice cream.

How to Make Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Step 1: Whip the Cream

The key to the perfect texture starts here. Grab your mixer and beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This gives your ice cream that luscious fluffiness and body, which is crucial because this no-churn recipe relies on whipped cream for its delightful creaminess instead of heavy churning machinery.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Curd Base

While your cream is reaching cloud-like peaks, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon curd, and vanilla extract in another bowl. Take your time here to achieve a smooth, luscious mixture that promises to burst with citrus sweetness in every bite. The vanilla brings out depth and richness, perfectly complementing the lemon’s tartness.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Now comes the delicate part. Gently fold the lemon curd mixture into the whipped cream with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the airiness intact. For an extra bit of wow, add a few extra spoonfuls of lemon curd and swirl them lightly through the mixture—these swirls will appear like golden sunshiny highlights in your finished ice cream.

Step 4: Freeze

Transfer your dreamy Lemon Curd Ice Cream base into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container. Smooth the top, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it into the freezer. Six hours minimum, or better yet, overnight, gives the perfect firm texture while locking in all those fresh, vibrant flavors.

How to Serve Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Garnishes

Enhance your Lemon Curd Ice Cream with bright, complementary garnishes like a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest, a few fresh mint leaves for a burst of green freshness, or even a drizzle of honey or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These little extras elevate each serving, making dessert feel extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy treat with buttery shortbread cookies or crisp ladyfingers for textural contrast and to soak up some of that luscious lemon flavor. Fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and a natural sweetness that balances the tangy lemon beautifully. It’s a simple yet elegant combo that never fails to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Lemon Curd Ice Cream to the next level by serving it in edible waffle bowls or inside hollowed-out lemon shells for a truly memorable presentation. You could also layer it in parfait glasses with crushed cookies and whipped cream for a visually stunning treat. The vibrant yellow swirls of the lemon curd inside the creamy base make any presentation look like a work of art.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Curd Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent ice crystals and preserve texture. Keeping it covered tightly means that the flavors stay vibrant, and the creaminess remains intact for the next time you want a refreshing lemony treat.

Freezing

The magic of this no-churn ice cream is that it freezes perfectly without needing complicated equipment. Just make sure to allow enough freezing time—at least six hours or overnight—for the best scoopable consistency. When frozen properly, its creamy texture and fresh lemon flavor stay beautifully preserved.

Reheating

This ice cream is best enjoyed cold straight from the freezer. However, if it becomes too hard after extended freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for five to ten minutes to soften slightly before scooping. Avoid microwaving, as this can affect texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade lemon curd for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd often has a richer, fresher flavor that makes the Lemon Curd Ice Cream extra special. Just be sure it’s well chilled and smooth before mixing.

Do I need an ice cream maker to make Lemon Curd Ice Cream?

Nope! This recipe is designed as a no-churn ice cream, which means all the mixing and folding does the work, and the freezer does the rest. It’s super simple and requires minimal equipment.

How long does Lemon Curd Ice Cream keep in the freezer?

For the best taste and texture, enjoy it within two weeks. It can be stored longer, but after a month, you might notice some changes in flavor or texture.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Definitely! Chocolate chips, candied ginger, or even a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add exciting textures and flavors. Just fold them in gently after combining your main mixture.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try substituting coconut cream for heavy whipping cream and using a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the lemony flavor will still shine through.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make this fantastic Lemon Curd Ice Cream, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start mixing up your own batch of sunshine in a tub. The balance of tart lemon with creamy sweetness is utterly addictive, and it’s a lovely crowd-pleaser for any season. Trust me, once you taste this, it’ll become one of your go-to homemade treats.