Description

Want a dessert that’s as festive as a 4th of July fireworks show and doesn’t need an ice cream maker? This 4th of July Ice Cream is your answer! With creamy vanilla, colorful red, white, and blue M&M’s, and sweet white chocolate chips, it’s a no-churn treat that’s perfect for Independence Day, summer parties, or any hot day.

Ingredients

Scale

A batch of 4th of July Ice Cream needs just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a 9×5-inch loaf pan (about 8 servings):

Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream, whipped (preferably organic)
- 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk (preferably organic)
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Why it matters: Heavy cream creates a fluffy base, sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness without needing a churn, and vanilla gives a rich flavor.
- Substitutions: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free option (alters flavor slightly). Swap sweetened condensed milk for a sugar-free version. Use vanilla extract if paste isn’t available.
Patriotic Mix-Ins:
- ⅓ cup or ½ package red, white, and blue M&M’s
- ½ package white chocolate chips (preferably Ghirardelli)
- Why it matters: M&M’s add colorful, crunchy pops, and white chocolate chips bring creamy sweetness.
- Substitutions: Use red and blue Skittles, mini marshmallows, or dried berries for mix-ins. Swap white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate chips, or use dairy-free chips.

Tip: Use cold heavy cream for the fluffiest whipped texture. Choose organic ingredients for a cleaner, fresher taste, and check M&M’s for seasonal patriotic colors.

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Instructions

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Pour 2 cups cold heavy cream into a large, chilled mixing bowl.
Use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment on medium-high speed to whip the cream until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
- Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping for faster results. Stop when peaks hold their shape to avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla

With the mixer on low, slowly pour in 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk in a steady stream.
Add 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste and mix until just combined.
- Tip: Scrape the can to get all the condensed milk. Mix gently to keep the cream fluffy.

Step 3: Add Mix-Ins

Gently fold in ⅓ cup red, white, and blue M&M’s and ½ package white chocolate chips using a spatula until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix, as M&M colors may run and blend.
- Tip: Fold slowly to distribute mix-ins evenly. Add a few extra M&M’s on top before freezing for a colorful look.

Step 4: Freeze the Ice Cream

Spread the mixture into a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or a freezer-safe storage container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
Freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until firm.
- Tip: Use a shallow container for faster freezing. Smooth the top for easy scooping later.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften for easier scooping.
Scoop into bowls or cones and serve with extra M&M’s or sprinkles if desired.
- Tip: Dip your ice cream scoop in warm water for clean scoops. Serve in red, white, and blue bowls for a festive touch!