Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe

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Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream feels like a little slice of heaven — creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s the perfect marriage of tangy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and that irresistible graham cracker swirl.

How to make Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is a popular flavor from Ben & Jerry’s that’s basically strawberry cheesecake in ice cream form.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries (chopped)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• For the Graham Cracker Swirl:
• 3/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice, and cook over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries release their juices. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the strawberries lightly if you prefer a chunkier texture.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer until slightly thickened (about 8–10 minutes), then remove from heat to cool completely. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar until the texture resembles wet sand.
2. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. In a blender or food processor, blend the cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until fully combined.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2–3 hours to ensure it is thoroughly chilled (this step is critical for achieving the creamy texture).

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

1. Once the base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20–25 minutes.
2. When the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, it’s ready for layering.

Step 5: Assemble the Ice Cream

1. In a freezer-safe container, layer the components: Start with the churned ice cream base, drizzle the strawberry sauce, and sprinkle a layer of graham cracker mixture.
2. Repeat the layering process, creating delicious swirls of strawberry sauce and graham crackers as you go. Lightly swirl the components together with a butter knife for a more marbled effect.
3. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top for a little extra crunch.
4. Cover the container with an airtight lid and place it in the freezer for at least 4–6 hours, or until firm.

Tips for the Perfect Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

• Use high-quality ingredients: Since the flavor relies on simple elements, make sure to use fresh strawberries, high-quality cream cheese, and pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• Control your swirl texture: If you want a smooth strawberry swirl, blend the strawberry sauce before cooling. If you love chunks of strawberries, keep it as is!
• Chill everything: Make sure your ice cream base and ice cream maker bowl (if required) are completely cold to achieve the creamiest texture possible.
• Customize your layers: Feel free to add more graham cracker bits or strawberry sauce depending on your taste preference.
• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Eat within a week for the freshest flavor.

What to serve with

Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is already a dessert superstar on its own, but pairing it with complementary treats can elevate the indulgence factor to a whole new level.

1. Fresh Strawberries: Because strawberries are a key component of this ice cream, serving it with fresh strawberries can enhance the fruity, refreshing flavors. Slice the strawberries and drizzle them with a little honey or sprinkle them with a bit of sugar to amplify their natural sweetness. It’s a simple but elegant combination!

2. Graham Cracker Crumble: Add some extra crunch by sprinkling crushed graham crackers over your ice cream. This will emphasize the signature cheesecake crust flavor found in the ice cream. For more pizzazz, lightly toast the graham cracker crumbs with some butter and brown sugar before adding them to your serving.

3. Whipped Cream: Sometimes, a swirl of light and fluffy whipped cream is all you need to make a dessert extra special. You can whip up your own using heavy cream and a pinch of sugar, or use store-bought whipped cream for convenience. Top your ice cream bowl with a generous dollop and even garnish with a strawberry or mint leaf for a professional touch.

4. Waffles or Pancakes: Transform your Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream into an exciting breakfast-for-dessert event by serving it over warm waffles or pancakes. The crispy, warm base paired with the cold and creamy ice cream is a match made in heaven. Drizzle with strawberry sauce, maple syrup, or chocolate sauce for added decadence.

5. Cheesecake Bites or Bars: Double up on the cheesecake experience by serving the ice cream alongside mini cheesecake bites or cheesecake bars. The richness of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the creamy strawberry and graham cracker notes in the ice cream. You can even use plain New York-style cheesecake to keep things simple and let the ice cream shine.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream at home doesn’t mean you’re limited to the exact ingredients mentioned in the original recipe.

1. Heavy Cream Substitute

Heavy cream gives the ice cream a luxuriously creamy, smooth texture. If you need a replacement:

• Half-and-half: Use half-and-half for a lighter, slightly less creamy texture.
• Full-fat coconut milk: A dairy-free option that still provides richness and creaminess. The subtle coconut flavor can complement the fruity strawberry notes nicely.
• Evaporated milk: Use it for a creamy, lower-fat option.

2. Whole Milk Substitute

Whole milk contributes to the ice cream’s balance of richness and light texture:

• Low-fat milk: While not as creamy, you can use 2% or skim milk, though the texture may be slightly icier. Pair it with heavy cream or coconut cream for added richness.
• Oat milk or almond milk: Great dairy-free choices. Oat milk is naturally creamier, while almond milk has a nutty undertone that complements the cheesecake flavor.

3. Cream Cheese Substitute

Cream cheese provides the tangy cheesecake flavor that defines this recipe. If you’re out of cream cheese or prefer alternatives:

• Mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone is slightly sweeter and lighter in texture, making it an excellent alternative to cream cheese.
• Greek yoghurt: Full-fat Greek yoghurt works well for a tangy cheesecake flavour and adds creaminess. Opt for plain yogurt to avoid overpowering the ice cream’s flavor profile.
• Silken tofu: A dairy-free, plant-based alternative that can be blended to achieve a smooth, creamy cheesecake-like texture. Add vanilla extract for extra depth.

4. Granulated Sugar Substitute

Sugar sweetens and balances the flavors. Here are some swaps:

• Honey or maple syrup: These natural sweeteners add subtle flavor while maintaining sweetness, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering the recipe.
• Cane sugar: A direct replacement that behaves the same way as granulated sugar in ice cream.
• Stevia or monk fruit sweetener: For low-sugar or sugar-free options, these sweeteners can replace sugar entirely. Check the conversion ratio on the package, as it’s usually higher than that of regular sugar.

5. Vanilla Extract Substitute

Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and sweetness. If you’re out of vanilla:

• Vanilla bean paste: Provides the same flavor but adds a more concentrated depth.
• Almond extract: A nutty substitute that pairs beautifully with strawberries and graham crackers. Use sparingly, as almond extract is strong.
• Coconut extract: A tropical alternative that adds a unique twist to the cheesecake base.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, your very own version of Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream! Each delicious bite will remind you of the creamy tanginess of cheesecake, the vibrant sweetness of strawberries, and the perfect crunch of graham crackers.

More Cheesecake Recipes:

• Homemade Target No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe
• Philadelphia No-Bake Cheesecake Filling Recipe
• Copycat Kroger No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe