Quick Cherry Ice Cream

Quick Cherry Ice Cream Made in the Food Processor

There’s something magical about homemade ice cream. The creamy texture, the burst of fresh flavors, and the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself—it’s a treat that feels both indulgent and wholesome. But let’s be real: traditional ice cream recipes can be time-consuming, requiring churning, freezing, and a whole lot of patience. What if I told you that you could whip up a luscious, creamy easy homemade cherry ice cream in just 5 minutes using your food processor? Yes, you read that right. This quick cherry no-churn ice cream is not only effortless but also uses vanilla yogurt to create a rich, velvety base. And if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of fudge sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios take it to the next level. Let’s dive into this dreamy dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Quick Cherry Ice Cream

1. Speed: From prep to bowl, this ice cream is ready in about 5 minutes. This no-churn recipe equals no waiting—just instant gratification.
2. Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings.
3. Creaminess: The secret? Vanilla yogurt! It adds a tangy sweetness and creates a smooth, luxurious texture without the need for heavy cream or eggs.
4. Customizable: Top it with fudge sauce, chopped pistachios, or even fresh cherries for a dessert that feels gourmet but is oh-so-easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this quick cherry ice cream:

• Frozen cherries: The star of the show! Frozen cherries are sweet, tart, and perfect for creating that icy, refreshing base. Use sweet dark cherries from the store or use a cherry pitter on fresh cherries and freeze the pitted cherries until solid.
• Vanilla yogurt: Use a good quality vanilla yogurt (like Tillamook) for creaminess and a hint of vanilla flavor. Greek yogurt or heavy cream works great for extra richness.
• Honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries and yogurt.
• Fudge sauce (optional): For that decadent drizzle we all love.
• Chopped pistachios (optional): A crunchy, salty contrast to the sweet and creamy ice cream.

Find the printable recipe card with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions below.

Variations & Substitutions

Yogurt​: you can substitute other types of dairy for yogurt like:

• Sweetened condensed milk
• ​Light coconut milk
• Heavy whipping cream
• Whole milk

Sweetener: experiment with other types of sweetener like:

• Maple syrup
• Stevia or monk fruit
• Honey

How to Make Quick Cherry Ice Cream in 5 Minutes

Ready to make the easiest ice cream of your life? Here’s how:

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Measure out 2 cups of frozen cherries, 1 cup of vanilla yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. If you’re using toppings, have your fudge sauce and chopped pistachios ready.
2. Blend It Up: Add the frozen cherries, vanilla yogurt, and sugar (or maple syrup) to your food processor. Pulse until the mixture starts to break down, then blend on high until smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides once or twice to ensure everything is well incorporated.
3. Serve Immediately: Once the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency, it’s ready to eat! Scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy as is, or take it up a notch with your favorite toppings.
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Drizzle with fudge sauce and sprinkle with chopped pistachios for a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy ice cream parlor.

Tips for the Perfect Quick Cherry Ice Cream

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is so simple, the quality of your ingredients really matters. Opt for frozen cherries without added sugar and a vanilla yogurt you love.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your ice cream before serving and add more sugar if needed. The sweetness of cherries can vary, so it’s good to tweak it to your preference.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add a handful of dark chocolate chips, a swirl of peanut butter, or even a splash of almond extract for a fun twist.
• Serve Right Away: This ice cream is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If you freeze it, it will harden and lose its creamy texture. But let’s be honest—it’s so delicious, it probably won’t last long enough to freeze!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this quick cherry ice cream lies in its simplicity and speed. By using frozen cherries, you eliminate the need for an ice cream maker or lengthy freezing times. The natural pectin in the cherries helps create a smooth texture, while the vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light and refreshing.

Healthier Dessert, No Compromises

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. With no heavy cream or refined sugar, it’s a guilt-free treat you can feel good about. Cherries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, while yogurt adds probiotics and protein. It’s a dessert that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, need a quick dessert for a weeknight treat, or just want to satisfy a sweet craving, this quick cherry ice cream recipe will be your new go-to. It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. Plus, it’s the best way to use up any leftover frozen fruit you have in your freezer.

The Versatility of Quick Cherry Ice Cream: Endless Possibilities

One of the best things about this quick cherry ice cream recipe is how versatile it is. While cherries are the star here, you can easily swap them out for other frozen fruits to create a whole new flavor profile. Think frozen strawberries for a classic strawberry ice cream, or frozen mango for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless, and the method remains the same—just blend, serve, and enjoy!

Make It a Sundae Bar

If you’re hosting a gathering or just want to make dessert extra fun, set up a DIY sundae bar with this quick cherry ice cream as the centerpiece. Offer a variety of toppings like:

• Fresh fruit: Sliced bananas, raspberries, or even more cherries.
• Crunchy additions: Granola, crushed cookies, or toasted coconut flakes.
• Sauces & Toppings: Caramel, whipped cream, chocolate fudge, maraschino cherries, or even a tangy raspberry coulis.
• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture.

Let everyone customize their bowl, and watch as this simple dessert becomes the highlight of the meal.

A Dessert That’s Meal-Prep Friendly

Yes, you read that right—this quick cherry ice cream can even be part of your meal prep! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can portion it into small containers and freeze in a freezer-safe container for later. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating to soften slightly. It’s a great way to have a healthy, satisfying dessert ready to go whenever the craving strikes.

A Dessert That Celebrates Cherry Season

While this recipe is perfect for summer when cherries are in season, it’s also a great way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. Frozen cherries are picked at their peak and frozen immediately, locking in their flavor and nutrients. So whether it’s the middle of winter or a hot summer day, this quick cherry ice cream brings a little sunshine to your table.

Final Thoughts

Who knew making homemade ice cream could be this easy? With just a food processor and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and bursting with cherry flavor. The optional fudge sauce and chopped pistachios add a touch of elegance, making it perfect for summer time entertaining or treating yourself. So next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the grocery store pints and whip up this quick cherry ice cream instead. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

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