Grapefruit ice cream is a refreshing dessert that masterfully blends the creamy richness of ice cream with the bright, tangy flavor of grapefruit.

Perfect for those who love citrus-inspired treats, this ice cream offers a unique and sophisticated alternative to traditional fruit-flavored desserts.

This guide will take you through the steps of creating this flavorful ice cream at home, from selecting the perfect grapefruit to incorporating it into a smooth, creamy base, ensuring a delightful result every time.

1. Ingredients for Grapefruit Ice Cream

Before you start, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand. This recipe will yield about 4 servings of grapefruit ice cream.

For the Ice Cream Base:

①　2 large grapefruits (for juice and zest)

②　1 cup heavy cream

③　1 cup whole milk

④　1 cup granulated sugar

⑤　4 large egg yolks

⑥　1 teaspoon vanilla extract

⑦　Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes:

①　Candied grapefruit peel

②　Fresh mint leaves

③　A drizzle of honey or agave syrup

④　Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for added crunch

2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Grapefruit Ice Cream

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started with the process of making homemade grapefruit ice cream.

Step 1: Prepare the Grapefruit

①　Begin by zesting the grapefruits using a fine grater or zester. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of zest for later use.

②　Cut the grapefruits in half and juice them. You should aim for about 1 cup of fresh grapefruit juice. Remove any seeds and strain the juice to ensure there’s no pulp left. If you prefer a smoother ice cream, you can also strain the zest to remove any larger pieces.

Step 2: Make the Custard Base

①　In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and half of the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is warm but not boiling.

②　In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, the remaining sugar (about ⅓ cup), and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and light in color.

③　Gradually pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

④　Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

⑤　Remove the custard base from heat. If you have a candy thermometer, check that the temperature reaches about 160°F. If you don’t, simply test by running your finger along the back of the spoon—if it leaves a clear trail, it’s ready.

Step 3: Incorporate the Grapefruit Juice and Zest

①　Once the custard base has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh grapefruit juice, zest, and vanilla extract (if using). The acidity of the grapefruit juice will balance the richness of the custard and create that tangy, refreshing flavor.

②　Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling the mixture helps it set and gives the flavors time to meld.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

①　Once the custard is chilled, transfer it to your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most ice cream makers take about 20-30 minutes to churn a batch of ice cream.

②　After the ice cream has thickened and reached the consistency of soft serve, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to firm up for an additional 2-4 hours.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

①　Once the ice cream has hardened to your liking, scoop it into bowls or cones.

②　For an added touch of flavor and texture, garnish with candied grapefruit peel, a drizzle of honey, fresh mint, or crushed cookies.

Video by Chef Majk

Grapefruit ice cream is the perfect dessert for anyone looking to combine the creamy indulgence of traditional ice cream with the bright, refreshing flavor of citrus. Whether you’re making it for a summer gathering or simply craving a unique frozen treat, this easy-to-follow recipe will provide you with a light, flavorful, and sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a homemade ice cream that’s both tangy and sweet, with a smooth, creamy texture that will leave you coming back for more.