Zesty Cranberry Orange Delight

This festive Cranberry Orange Ice Cream combines tart cranberries with bright citrus for a refreshing frozen treat that captures holiday flavors without requiring an ice cream maker. The no-churn method delivers creamy results with minimal effort, making it perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something sweet with a seasonal twist.

I first created this recipe when looking for a lighter dessert alternative to heavy holiday pies. The vibrant color and refreshing taste quickly made it a December tradition in our home, with family members requesting it well into the new year.

Ingredients

• Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious base and provides the perfect texture without an ice cream machine
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds necessary sweetness while preventing ice crystals from forming
• Cranberry sauce: Delivers festive flavor and beautiful color swirls; look for whole berry sauce for added texture
• Orange zest: Provides intense citrus flavor and tiny bursts of brightness throughout each bite
• Orange extract: Enhances the citrus profile with concentrated flavor that stands up to freezing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whip the cream:

Pour cold heavy cream into a large chilled bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium high speed for approximately 3 minutes until stiff peaks form. The cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters and look glossy but not grainy. This creates the airy structure that makes no churn ice cream possible.

Combine the base:

Using a rubber spatula fold the sweetened condensed milk orange zest and orange extract into the whipped cream with gentle downward strokes followed by scooping from the bottom. Continue until no streaks remain but avoid overmixing which would deflate the air bubbles necessary for creamy texture.

Create cranberry swirls:

Drop spoonfuls of cranberry sauce over the ice cream base. Using a knife or skewer gently swirl the sauce through the mixture creating ribbons of color throughout. Avoid overmixing as distinct swirls provide more visual appeal and concentrated bursts of flavor.

Freeze properly:

Transfer the mixture to a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan or freezer safe container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for at least 6 hours but preferably overnight to achieve the perfect scoopable consistency.

Pin it

The cranberry sauce is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered this recipe during a post Thanksgiving cleanup when I had leftover homemade cranberry sauce that was too good to waste. The way the tart berries cut through the richness of the cream creates the perfect balance that keeps you coming back for another spoonful.

Customizing Your Cranberry Sauce

While store bought cranberry sauce works perfectly in this recipe making your own allows for creative flavor adjustments. Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar orange juice and a cinnamon stick until berries burst and mixture thickens. Cool completely before using in the ice cream for intense flavor and that signature tartness that makes this dessert special.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This ice cream maintains its quality for up to two weeks when stored properly. Keep it in the back of your freezer where temperatures remain most consistent. For easier scooping remove from freezer and let stand at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Press parchment paper directly on the surface between servings to prevent freezer burn and preserve the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this ice cream into an elegant dessert by serving small scoops in chocolate dipped waffle cones with fresh mint. For a holiday dinner finale create ice cream sandwiches using thin ginger cookies or serve alongside warm apple crisp where the cold creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the hot fruit. A drizzle of dark chocolate sauce adds sophistication and complements both the cranberry and orange flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of sauce?

Yes, you can simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and water to create a sauce before using it in the dessert.

→ How long should I freeze the mixture?

Freeze the mixture for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.

→ Can I skip the orange extract?

Yes, but the orange extract enhances the citrus flavor. Consider adding a bit more zest as a natural alternative.

→ Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or other desired mix-ins for extra texture and flavor.

→ What's the best way to store this dessert?

Store the frozen dessert in an airtight container in the freezer to preserve its texture and flavor for up to two weeks.