Cake Batter Ice Cream

Making cake batter ice cream brings birthday magic to any day of the year. This treat combines the nostalgia of boxed cake batter with the creamy, dreamy texture of homemade ice cream. The process is straightforward and fun, transforming a few simple ingredients into a festive dessert. You’ll love how the yellow cake mix gives the ice cream an irresistibly sweet and buttery edge. The optional addition of sprinkles adds an even more whimsical touch, making this ice cream perfect for celebrations or just a treat-your-family moment. With a few steps and a bit of patience, you’ll have homemade ice cream that rivals any scoop shop.

Cake Batter Ice Cream Ingredients

• Heavy whipping cream: This ingredient provides a rich and creamy texture essential for a smooth and luxurious ice cream.
• Whole milk: Whole milk adds a slightly lighter texture while maintaining creaminess, balancing the richness of the heavy cream.
• Vanilla extract: The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm and fragrant note.
• Sugar: A modest amount of sugar sweetens the ice cream and helps create a smooth texture by lowering the freezing point.
• Salt: The salt enhances the flavor complexity by balancing sweetness and accentuating the other flavors.
• Yellow cake mix: The cake mix gives the ice cream its distinctive cake batter flavor and contributes to its thick, custard-like consistency.
• Sprinkles (optional): These add a fun and colorful element to the ice cream, providing a slight crunch and visual appeal.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the ingredients

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, whole milk and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the sugar and salt, whisking continuously until fully dissolved. Gradually whisk in the yellow cake mix until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 2: Freeze the ice cream

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

Fill the cylinder of your ice cream maker no more than two-thirds full with the prepared mixture. If there is any remaining mixture, refrigerate it until ready to freeze. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to freeze the mixture, adding the optional sprinkles during the last minute of processing.

Step 3: Store and firm the ice cream

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

Transfer the finished ice cream to freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze until the ice cream is firm, which should take about 2 to 4 hours.

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

Cake Batter Ice Cream Variations

• Swirl in caramel: Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce into the ice cream during the last minute of processing to create caramel swirls.
• Mix in cookie dough: Fold in 1 cup of small cookie dough pieces before freezing for a delightful cookie dough texture.
• Use different cake mixes: Substitute the yellow cake mix with Funfetti or chocolate cake mix to create new flavors.
• Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before serving for added crunch and flavor.
• Create a layered effect: Layer the ice cream with crumbled cake pieces or brownie chunks in the container before the final freeze for a layered texture.

How to Store Cake Batter Ice Cream

Keep the ice cream in a sealed container in the freezer. Press a sheet of plastic wrap onto to the ice cream’s surface to protect against freezer burn and preserve freshness.

How long does cake batter ice cream last?

Cake batter ice cream can last up to two weeks in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight, freezer-safe container. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within this time frame.

Cake Batter Ice Cream Tips

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

What toppings go well with cake batter ice cream?

Toppings that pair well with cake batter ice cream include rainbow sprinkles for a classic touch, crumbled pieces of cake or cookies for added texture and a drizzle of hot fudge or caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Fresh berries, whipped cream and walnut sauce also make delicious additions, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of the ice cream.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming in homemade ice cream?

To prevent ice crystals from forming in homemade ice cream, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before churning it. This ensures that the mixture is as cold as possible when you begin the churning process, which helps create a smoother texture. Additionally, using full-fat dairy products and storing the finished ice cream in an airtight container can further minimize ice crystal formation.

What are some fun ways to serve cake batter ice cream at a party?

Set up an ice cream bar with a variety of toppings like sprinkles, crushed cookies, candy pieces, fruit and sauces, allowing everyone to customize their own sundaes. For an extra special touch, serve the ice cream in homemade waffle bowls. For a sweet and fizzy treat, pour soda over a scoop of cake batter ice cream to make ice cream floats.