Thank you for being here it means so much to have you stop by my kitchen corner! Whether you’re a Cherry Garcia devotee or just hunting for that perfect creamy, fruity dessert, I’m so excited to share this one with you. This Creamy Cherry Garcia Ice Cream is a dreamy no-churn recipe packed with juicy cherries, rich dark chocolate, and luscious vanilla cream.
I grew up loving the original, but making it at home? Even better. The texture is ultra-creamy, the cherry swirl is divine, and every bite is filled with melty chocolate bits that keep you coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Ice Cream
- No-churn and no machine needed
- Sweet-tart cherry ripple with bits of dark chocolate
- Ultra-creamy texture—just like premium ice cream
- Perfect for summer, parties, or anytime indulgence
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
What It Tastes Like
Rich vanilla ice cream meets ribbons of sweet cherry compote and flecks of bold dark chocolate. It’s sweet, creamy, slightly tart from the cherries, and balanced by bittersweet chocolate. Think nostalgic summer vibes with a homemade upgrade!
Benefits of This Recipe
- No ice cream maker required
- Quick prep with minimal ingredients
- Make-ahead friendly
- Naturally gluten-free
- A fun kitchen project for kids or summer guests
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups sweet cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on cherry sweetness)
- 3 oz dark chocolate, chopped or shaved
Tools You’ll Need
- Hand or stand mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Loaf pan or freezer-safe container
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t in season
- Sub white or milk chocolate for a sweeter twist
- Add chopped almonds for crunch
- Swap vanilla for almond extract for extra cherry depth
- Make it vegan: use coconut cream and vegan condensed milk
How to Make Cherry Garcia Ice Cream
Step 1:
In a saucepan over medium heat, add chopped cherries and sugar (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes until cherries break down and become jammy. Cool completely.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Step 3:
In another bowl, stir together sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
Step 4:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until combined.
Step 5:
Fold in half of the cooled cherry mixture and the chopped chocolate. Swirl in the remaining cherry compote for a ripple effect.
Step 6:
Pour into a loaf pan or container. Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
What to Serve With It
- Warm brownies
- Chocolate chip cookies
- Fresh cherries or berries on the side
- A drizzle of hot fudge or cherry syrup
- Crushed waffle cones or chopped almonds
Tips for the Creamiest No-Churn Ice Cream
- Chill your mixing bowl and cream beforehand
- Don’t over-whip the cream—it should be just firm
- Let cherry mixture cool completely before swirling
- Freeze in a metal or ceramic container for best texture
- Run your scoop under warm water for easier serving
Storage Instructions
- Keep covered in a freezer-safe container
- Best enjoyed within 2 weeks for optimal texture
- Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before scooping
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before cooking.
Do I need to cook the cherries?
Cooking enhances the flavor and prevents ice crystals. Highly recommended.
Can I add more chocolate?
Absolutely—double it for a more indulgent twist!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your chocolate is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a loyal Cherry Garcia lover or just looking for a show-stopping summer dessert, this Creamy Cherry Garcia Ice Cream is going to win hearts. It’s rich, fruity, chocolatey, and seriously addictive. One spoonful and you’ll forget it’s homemade!
Print
Creamy Cherry Garcia Ice Cream: A No-Churn Summer Treat You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 6 hours (includes freezing)
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This no-churn Cherry Garcia Ice Cream features a creamy vanilla base swirled with homemade cherry compote and studded with chopped dark chocolate. A cool, easy dessert perfect for summer indulgence.
Ingredients
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1½ cups cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
– 3 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, cook cherries and sugar over medium heat for 5–7 minutes. Cool.
2. Whip the cream to stiff peaks.
3. Stir condensed milk and vanilla in a separate bowl.
4. Fold whipped cream into condensed milk mixture.
5. Fold in half of the cherry mixture and chopped chocolate.
6. Swirl in remaining cherries.
7. Pour into a loaf pan and freeze 6+ hours.
Notes
Use fresh or frozen cherries.
Cool cherry compote fully before adding.
Don’t over-whip the cream.
Swirl for a marble effect.
Store covered up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Churn
Keywords: cherry garcia ice cream, no churn ice cream, cherry chocolate dessert, summer ice cream, homemade cherry ice cream
Leave a Comment