CDKitchen, it's what's cooking online!
  • contact the CDKitchen helpdesk

Copycat Ben & Jerry's Sweet Cream Base 1

  • print recipe
  • save recipe
  • add photo
  • add review
  • #28227

For those seeking nostalgia, this sweet cream base recipe mirrors the beloved Ben & Jerry's style. Made with simple ingredients, these smooth flavors provide a blank canvas for any add-ins you choose.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  1-2 hrs
Rating: 5/5

4 reviews
1 comment

ingredients

2 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk

directions

Place the eggs in a mixing bowl and beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for 2 minutes. With the mixer running, slowly add the sugar then mix for 1 more minute.

With the mixer running, add the cream and milk. Mix until blended.

Transfer the ice cream base to the ice cream machine. You can add in any other desired ingredients or flavorings at this time. Freeze as per manufacturer instructions.

cook's notes

This recipe uses raw eggs. If this is a concern for you, use pasteurized eggs or try one of our cooked ice cream base recipes.

recipe tips


For a richer flavor, consider steeping vanilla beans in the heavy cream before mixing with the other ingredients.

Try adding different flavor extracts, like mint or almond.

To avoid ice crystals, make sure the ice cream is stored in a tightly sealed container.

Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier scooping.

common recipe questions


Can I substitute the sugar with a different sweetener?

You can use alternatives like honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or even artificial sweeteners, though be aware that this may alter the flavor and texture.

What type of milk should I use?

Whole milk or 2% work best in this recipe. Lower fat or non-dairy versions may not set up as well.

Can I make this recipe without an ice cream machine?

While an ice cream maker yields the best results, you can still make ice cream without one by freezing the mixture and stirring it every 30 minutes for several hours to break up ice crystals.

What can I add to the base for flavoring?

Popular options include vanilla extract, chocolate chips, fruit purees, nuts, or cookie pieces. Just add these ingredients once the base is mixed.

Is there a risk of foodborne illness due to the raw eggs?

Yes, there is a risk of salmonella when using raw eggs. Consider using pasteurized eggs as a safer alternative.

How should I store the ice cream once it's made?

Store the finished ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.

How long can I keep homemade ice cream in the freezer?

Homemade ice cream is best consumed within 1 to 2 weeks for best texture and flavor, but it can last for up to a month in the freezer.

Can I add alcohol to the mixture?

Yes, adding a splash of alcohol, like bourbon or rum, can enhance the flavor and can help keep the ice cream softer and easier to scoop.

tools needed


Electric Mixer: For beating the eggs and combining the remaining ingredients.

Mixing Bowl: Used for holding the eggs while they are being beaten and for mixing all the ingredients before transferring the base to the ice cream machine.

Measuring Cups: For measuring the sugar, heavy cream, and milk.

Ice Cream Maker: For freezing the sweet cream base into ice cream after mixing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Spatula: Helpful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to make sure all ingredients are well incorporated before transferring the mixture to the ice cream machine.

what goes with it?


Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle on top of the finished ice cream to add a deep, contrasting flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cream base.

Fruit Compote: A fresh fruit compote, such as berry or peach, can be spooned over the ice cream to balance the creaminess and offer a refreshing burst of flavor.

Caramel Sauce: Pouring warm caramel over the ice cream provides an indulgent sweetness that pairs well with the cream base.

Brownie Bites: Serve bite-sized brownie pieces with the ice cream for a fudgy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth creaminess.

Waffle Cone Crumbles: Crushed waffle cones can be sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture that adds a pleasant crunch and hints of vanilla flavor.

Prosciutto Crisps: Crispy prosciutto (or bacon) can be crumbled atop the ice cream for an unexpected salty and savory element.

Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can be used as a garnish for a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the sweetness.

Nuts (Pistachios or Almonds): Chopped nuts can be added for crunch.

Espresso: A shot of espresso poured over the ice cream transforms it into an affogato, bringing a rich coffee flavor that complements the sweetness.

Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut can be sprinkled on top for a tropical flair and added texture.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Serving warm chocolate chip cookies alongside the ice cream creates a textural contrast and classic dessert experience.

Honeycomb: Bits of honeycomb can add a unique crunch and sweetness that works well with the ice cream, providing an interesting texture and a natural sugary flavor that complements the cream.

Spiced Pumpkin Puree: Adding dollops of spiced pumpkin puree gives a seasonal touch, balancing the creaminess with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

beverage pairings


Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A rich, buttery Chardonnay can really complement the sweetness of the ice cream base. Look for one that has been aged in oak to get those lovely vanilla and toasted flavors.

Sweet Riesling: This one's a crowd-pleaser. A sweet Riesling, especially one with fruity notes like peach and apricot, will pair nicely with the cream base.

Moscato: If you prefer something light and bubbly, a Moscato could be the way to go. Its sweetness and floral notes mixed with fruity flavors can match the dessert's creaminess.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Baileys Irish Cream: This smooth, creamy liqueur has swirls of chocolate and vanilla that are perfect companions for a sweet ice cream base. It's like dessert in a glass!

Amaretto: A sweet almond liqueur like amaretto brings a lovely nutty flavor that can nicely contrast the rich ice cream.

Kahlua: The coffee flavors in Kahlua can serve as a delicious counterpoint to the creaminess of the ice cream, giving a little twist that might remind you of an affogato.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Chocolate Milk: Nothing beats the classic combo of chocolate milk with a sweet cream ice cream.

Caramel Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of caramel hot chocolate adds a touch of richness that pairs beautifully with ice cream.

Fruit Punch: A refreshing fruit punch can provide a fruity contrast to the sweet richness of the ice cream. Look for one with a mix of berry and citrus flavors.


nutrition data

315 calories, 24 grams fat, 22 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams protein per 1/2 cup. This recipe is low in sodium.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


share on facebook share on twitter share on pinterest


reviews & comments

  1. Xenadena REVIEW:

    Easy and delicious! My daughter and I made our own “Wonder woman” blizzard with brownie and chocolate chip cookie dough! Our new favorite ice cream EVER!

  2. Mak REVIEW:

    This is so delicious! Making my second batch.

  3. Tall Paul REVIEW:

    Have made this many times since I got their ice cream book. Never a failure. One quart of this goes a long way and it only takes 35 minutes to freeze in an electric ice cream maker. Let the actual ice cream tub sit overnight or longer in a freezer compartment (I just keep mine in there all the time). Mix the ingredients the day before, (I do not cook mine), put the mixture in a covered container and then in a refrigerator so it is quite cold when you put it in the very cold tub part of the ice cream maker the next day. If the mix or the tub are not cold enough you will not get ice cream, just an elaborate milk shake.

  4. Tall Paul REVIEW:

    You can make this recipe larger by adding more cream. I doubled the cream last weekend for a group of 10 here at the Jersey shore and did nothing else to the recipe. It made between 1.5 and 2 quarts and served everyone fine. The taste was not quite as deep a sweet cream taste to me, but it served its purpose. A lot of the experience of eating homemade ice cream is in the mind of the eater.

  5. Guest Foodie

    Do you have to separate the eggs?

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

About CDKitchen

Online since 1995, CDKitchen has grown into a large collection of delicious recipes created by home cooks and professional chefs from around the world. We are all about tasty treats, good eats, and fun food. Join our community of 200K+ members - browse for a recipe, submit your own, add a review, or upload a recipe photo.