Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream

When it comes to summer cherry desserts, few things beat a big scoop of Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream on a hot day.

With juicy cherries, crunchy toasted pecans, and a creamy vanilla base, this old-fashioned ice cream is just what you need to cool down at your next summer gathering or backyard cookout.

I had cherries left after making my Cherry Clafoutis last week so I decided Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream would hit the spot.

I know I’ve said this before but I’m truly obsessed with making my own ice cream with my KitchenAid Ice Cream maker. It’s just so much fun to take a few ingredients, mix them all together and a few hours later have an amazing dessert to serve!

No, I didn’t say it was a healthy dessert but it tastes better than store bought and it’s has to be a little bit better for me.

This Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream brings back the flavors of vintage soda fountains and childhood summers.

Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue, a weekend lake trip, or just a quiet night on the porch, it’s a sweet way to celebrate the season.

If you’re craving more frozen treats, don’t miss my Homemade Chunky Monkey Ice Cream and Fresh Peach Ice Cream — two more deliciously creamy recipes perfect for summer days!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream

• Perfect for summer cookouts and casual family get-togethers.
• Made with real, simple ingredients — no artificial flavors.
• A crowd-pleasing summer dessert that’s both fruity and creamy.
• Great for using up an abundance of fresh summer cherries or those vibrant maraschino cherries.

If you love old-fashioned summer recipes, this one’s a must-try!

What is Cherry Nut Ice Cream?

Cherry nut ice cream is a classic, old-fashioned ice cream flavor made with a creamy vanilla or cherry-flavored base that’s mixed with sweet cherries (often maraschino or fresh) and chopped nuts — most commonly pecans or walnuts.

Ingredients

• Fresh pitted cherries
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice
• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Chopped pecans
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How to make Homemade Cherry Nut Ice Cream

In a small saucepan, combine cherries, ¼ cup of sugar, and lemon juice.

Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are soft and juicy.

Let cool slightly, then mash or blend (for a smoother texture).

Cover and refrigerate until cold.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining ½ cup sugar, cream, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.

Stir the chilled cherry mixture into the cream base.

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight) until very cold.

Pour into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions (usually about 20–25 minutes), until it reaches soft-serve consistency.

Mix in the chopped pecan and churn for another 5 minutes.

Transfer to a lidded container and freeze for at least 2–4 hours for a firmer scoop.

A perfect summer treat — don’t forget a second scoop!