No-Churn Salted Caramel Ice Cream Delightful Treat

November 24, 2025May 21, 2025 by Chef Nate

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups heavy cream

– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Pinch of sea salt

– Optional: Chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds)

To make this no-churn salted caramel ice cream, you need simple ingredients. Start with heavy cream. This gives the ice cream a rich and creamy base. Next, grab a can of sweetened condensed milk. This sweetens the mix and adds creaminess.

You will also need salted caramel sauce. You can make your own or buy it. This sauce is the star of the show. It brings that sweet and salty flavor that we all love. Don’t forget vanilla extract. It adds depth to the taste. A pinch of sea salt enhances the sweet flavors too.

If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts. Pecans or almonds work well. They add texture and extra flavor. Now that you have the list, you’re ready to create this delightful treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whipping the Heavy Cream

Start with a large mixing bowl. Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream. Use an electric mixer for best results. Mix on high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want to see stiff peaks form. This means the cream holds its shape well. Be patient; this step is key for light ice cream.

Preparing the Caramel Mixture

In another bowl, combine 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix these ingredients together until they are well combined. This mixture brings rich flavor to your ice cream. The sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess. The caramel adds that delicious sweet and salty taste.

Folding Techniques

Now, it’s time to combine the two mixtures. Take the whipped cream and gently fold it into the caramel mixture. Use a spatula and a light hand to avoid deflating the whipped cream. This keeps the ice cream fluffy. If you want some crunch, you can fold in optional chopped nuts like pecans or almonds at this stage.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the right texture for your no-churn salted caramel ice cream, start by whipping the cream. Use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The cream should be thick and hold its shape well.

Be careful not to over-mix the cream. If you whip it too long, it can turn into butter. This will ruin the smooth and creamy texture we want in our ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

Scooping ice cream can be tricky. To make it easier, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes before you scoop. This helps soften it just enough for easy serving.

When serving, get creative with your presentation. Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce on top for a beautiful look. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt and some chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Adjusting Sweetness

Finding the right balance in sweetness is key. If you find the ice cream too sweet, you can add a pinch of sea salt. This will enhance the flavor and cut down on the sweetness.

For the caramel sauce, feel free to use store-bought or homemade. If you want a deeper flavor, try using a darker caramel sauce. This will add a richer taste to your ice cream.

Variations

Flavor Additions

You can change this no-churn salted caramel ice cream to fit your mood. Try adding different flavors for fun. Here are a few ideas:

– Vanilla Bean: Use real vanilla bean. Scrape the seeds into the cream. This adds a rich taste.

– Chocolate: Add melted chocolate to the caramel mix. It makes a sweet twist.

– Fruits: Consider mixing in fruits like strawberries or bananas. They add a fresh feel.

Dietary Adjustments

You can adapt this recipe to fit different diets. Here are some options:

– Dairy-Free or Vegan: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk. This keeps it creamy and delicious.

– Low-Sugar: Try sugar-free sweetened condensed milk. You can also use a low-sugar caramel sauce. This way, you enjoy the flavor without too much sugar.

Nut Variants

Nuts can add a nice crunch to your ice cream. Here’s how to adjust:

– Using Nuts: Almonds or walnuts work well. Chop them into small pieces and fold them in. They add great texture and flavor.

– Nut-Free Version: Just leave out the nuts. This ice cream tastes great without them. It makes it safe for those with nut allergies.

Storage Info

Freezing Instructions

To store your no-churn salted caramel ice cream, use a freezer-safe container. A plastic or glass container works best. Make sure it has a tight-fitting lid. This helps keep the ice cream fresh and prevents ice crystals. Before pouring in the ice cream, smooth the top with a spatula. This makes it easy to scoop later.

Shelf Life

Your ice cream will last about 2 to 3 weeks in the freezer. After that, its taste and texture may change. Look for signs of spoilage. If you see ice crystals or if it smells off, it’s time to toss it. Always keep it covered to avoid freezer burn.

Re-freezing Tips

If you thaw your ice cream, you can re-freeze it. Just make sure it’s tightly covered. When you re-freeze, the texture may change slightly. It might become a bit icier, but it will still taste great. To avoid this, try to scoop only what you need at one time.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel instead of salted?

Yes, you can use regular caramel. However, it will change the flavor. Salted caramel adds depth to the ice cream. It balances sweetness with a slight saltiness. This makes each bite more exciting. If you prefer regular caramel, consider adding a pinch of salt to the mix.

How can I make this recipe without an electric mixer?

You can make this ice cream without an electric mixer. Use a whisk to whip the cream by hand. It takes more effort, but it works well. Be patient and whip until you see stiff peaks. You can also use a jar with a tight lid. Shake the jar vigorously until the cream thickens.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding mix-ins is a fun way to customize your ice cream. Chocolate chips, nuts, or even cookie pieces work great. Just fold them in gently after mixing the whipped cream. This way, you keep the airy texture of the ice cream.

This blog post shared a fun and easy way to make delicious caramel ice cream. You learned about the key ingredients, from heavy cream to sweetened condensed milk, and how to whip them into a smooth treat. The tips helped you avoid mistakes and served up great ideas for variations, like adding fruits or nuts. Remember, you can adjust sweetness to fit your taste. Now, you have the tools to create your own unique flavors. Start making this treat and enjoy each scoop with friends and famil