This Orange Ice Cream is a delightful treat that combines the refreshing taste of fresh oranges with creamy goodness. Perfect for warm days or festive gatherings, this recipe brings back memories of your favorite orange creamsicle popsicles. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll want to share with family and friends.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Base
- How to Make Orange Ice Cream
- Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- Step 2: Optional Coloring
- Step 3: Churn in Ice Cream Maker
- Step 4: Freeze to Firm Up
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Orange Ice Cream
- Classic Cone
- Sundae Style
- Float
- Sorbet Scoop
- Milkshake
- Fruit Garnish
- How to Perfect Orange Ice Cream
- Best Side Dishes for Orange Ice Cream
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Orange Ice Cream
- Reheating Orange Ice Cream
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen orange juice instead?
- How do I make my Orange Ice Cream creamier?
- Can I customize my Orange Ice Cream?
- What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
- How long does homemade Orange Ice Cream last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, making your own Orange Ice Cream is straightforward and fun.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and vanilla creates a vibrant and delicious taste experience.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it on its own, in an ice cream sundae, or as part of a summer party spread.
- Customizable: Add food coloring for a vibrant hue or mix in your favorite toppings to personalize each scoop.
- Nostalgic Experience: This recipe captures the essence of childhood summers spent enjoying creamy, fruity treats.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Orange Ice Cream, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Ice cream maker: This is essential for achieving that creamy texture in your Orange Ice Cream without ice crystals.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without any spills.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps incorporate air into the mixture, improving the final texture of the ice cream.
Ingredients
This homemade Orange Ice Cream is made with freshly squeezed orange juice and real vanilla extract. It has all of the flavors of an orange creamsicle popsicle you remember as a kid.
For the Base
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed, 3 oranges)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange extract
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- pinch salt
How to Make Orange Ice Cream
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine together the heavy cream, sugar, orange juice, whole milk, orange extract, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Optional Coloring
If you choose to use food coloring for added vibrancy, add it in now and mix well until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Churn in Ice Cream Maker
Pour everything into an ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Step 4: Freeze to Firm Up
Cover the top of the ice cream with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 4-6 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for hardening your delicious treat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the ice cream sit out for a couple minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls or cones, and enjoy your homemade Orange Ice Cream!
How to Serve Orange Ice Cream
Serving homemade Orange Ice Cream can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, there are many fun ways to present this creamy treat.
Classic Cone
- A classic ice cream cone is always a hit. Simply scoop the Orange Ice Cream into a waffle cone for a crunchy contrast.
Sundae Style
- Create an orange sundae by layering the ice cream with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Float
- Make an orange float by adding a scoop of Orange Ice Cream to a glass of lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for a fizzy treat.
Sorbet Scoop
- For a refreshing twist, serve your Orange Ice Cream alongside a scoop of lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus flavor.
Milkshake
- Blend the Orange Ice Cream with some milk to create a creamy milkshake that’s perfect for warm days.
Fruit Garnish
- Top with fresh orange slices or zest for added color and flavor that complements the ice cream beautifully.

How to Perfect Orange Ice Cream
To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Orange Ice Cream, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides vibrant flavor compared to bottled juice.
- Chill your mixture: Let your ice cream mixture chill in the refrigerator before churning. This helps it freeze better.
- Don’t skip the salt: A pinch of salt enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Follow manufacturer directions: Different ice cream makers have unique processing times; always follow the instructions for best results.
- Store properly: Keep your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture.
- Let it soften before serving: Allow it to sit out for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Ice Cream
Orange Ice Cream pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavor. Here are some tasty options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and balances the richness of the ice cream.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Warm cookies provide a delightful contrast to cold ice cream; try pairing them together!
- Brownies: Rich chocolate brownies create an indulgent dessert when served with scoops of orange-flavored goodness.
- Pound Cake: Light and buttery pound cake serves as an excellent base for scoops of Orange Ice Cream.
- Granola Parfait: Layered with yogurt and granola, this dish offers crunch while highlighting the creamy texture of ice cream.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: The sweet and tart strawberries harmonize perfectly with orange flavors for an elegant touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade Orange Ice Cream can be easy and fun, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.
- Skipping the fresh ingredients: Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for a vibrant flavor. Bottled juice often lacks the same freshness.
- Not chilling the mixture: Failing to chill your base before churning can result in a less creamy texture. Always refrigerate your mixture for at least 2 hours.
- Overchurning: Churning for too long can create ice crystals instead of a smooth texture. Follow your ice cream maker‘s instructions closely.
- Ignoring the salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances sweetness. Don’t skip this crucial ingredient.
- Not letting it soften: Serving immediately after churning can make it hard to scoop. Allow the ice cream to soften for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator.
Freezing Orange Ice Cream
- Use an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for best results.
- It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Orange Ice Cream
- Oven: Not recommended for ice cream as it will melt quickly.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until slightly softened.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until softened; be careful not to melt completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Orange Ice Cream that may help you enjoy your treat even more.
Can I use frozen orange juice instead?
You can use frozen orange juice concentrate, but fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor.
How do I make my Orange Ice Cream creamier?
To achieve a creamier texture, you can increase the heavy cream proportion or add more eggs to create a custard base.
Can I customize my Orange Ice Cream?
Yes! Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries for extra flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can make Orange Ice Cream without one by placing the mixture in a shallow dish and stirring every 30 minutes until firm.
How long does homemade Orange Ice Cream last?
When stored properly in the freezer, it lasts up to 2 months while still tasting fresh!
Final Thoughts
This homemade Orange Ice Cream is not just delicious; it’s also nostalgic and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite additions or variations. Try this recipe and enjoy a delightful treat that brings joy with every scoop!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Orange Ice Cream
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing delight of homemade Orange Ice Cream, a nostalgic treat that captures the essence of sunny days and childhood memories. This creamy dessert is made with fresh oranges and a hint of vanilla, creating a vibrant flavor reminiscent of classic orange creamsicle popsicles. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet escape on warm evenings, this recipe is easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste. Whether served in a cone, as part of a sundae, or alongside fruity desserts, every scoop promises a burst of citrus happiness. Bring joy to family and friends by crafting this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3 oranges)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange extract
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, fresh orange juice, whole milk, orange extract, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- If desired, add food coloring for vibrancy and mix until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions until it reaches soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for 4-6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg





