Dr. Pepper Ice Cream: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Soda

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Dr. Pepper ice cream is a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic soda in dessert form. With just a few simple ingredients and no need for an ice cream maker, you can create a creamy, fizzy treat that captures the essence of Dr. Pepper. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and Dr. Pepper results in a smooth, flavorful ice cream that's perfect for warm days or as a unique dessert to impress guests.

Ingredients

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (cold)

• 12 oz can of Dr. Pepper (cold)

• 2 cups cold heavy cream

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Chill Equipment: Place your loaf pan, mixing bowl, and whisk attachment in the freezer for about 30 minutes to ensure the whipped cream firms up better.

2. Mix Dr. Pepper and Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a medium mixing bowl, pour in the cold sweetened condensed milk. Slowly stir in the cold Dr. Pepper, doing so gradually to minimize bubbles and help the mixture set quickly.

3. Whip the Cream: Take the chilled mixing bowl and whisk attachment from the freezer and pour the cold heavy cream into the bowl. Beat the cream on medium-high speed for about a minute until slightly frothy. Increase the speed to high and continue whipping for 1½ to 2 minutes until stiff peaks form.

4. Fold the Whipped Cream into the Dr. Pepper Mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the Dr. Pepper and condensed milk mixture. Do this slowly, one cup at a time, using a silicone spatula. Be gentle here—you don’t want to deflate the whipped cream.

5. Freeze the Mixture: Retrieve your chilled loaf pan from the freezer and spoon the ice cream mixture into it. Smooth the top with an offset or silicone spatula. Cover tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil and freeze for 6 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Freeze Time: 6 hours

• Servings: Approximately 6

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Dr. Pepper Ice Cream: Add ½ cup of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips to the mixture before freezing for a delightful chocolatey twist.

• No-Churn Dr. Pepper Ice Cream: For a quicker version, combine sweetened condensed milk, Dr. Pepper, and heavy cream, then freeze until set.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover ice cream in the freezer, tightly covered with heavy-duty aluminum foil or in an airtight container, for up to one month. Allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make scooping easier.

FAQs

How do I make Dr. Pepper ice cream without an ice cream maker?

You can make Dr. Pepper ice cream without an ice cream maker by following a no-churn method. Combine sweetened condensed milk, cold Dr. Pepper, and cold heavy cream, then freeze until set.

Can I use Diet Dr. Pepper in this recipe?

Yes, you can use Diet Dr. Pepper, but the ice cream may have a slightly different texture and sweetness due to the absence of sugar.

What if I don't have a loaf pan?

If you don't have a loaf pan, you can use any freezer-safe container. Just ensure it's lined with parchment paper for easy removal of the ice cream.

How can I enhance the Dr. Pepper flavor?

To enhance the Dr. Pepper flavor, consider reducing the soda by simmering it until it thickens before mixing it with the sweetened condensed milk.

Can I add other mix-ins to the ice cream?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even swirls of caramel or fudge before freezing for added texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?

This recipe contains dairy products; however, you can experiment with lactose-free alternatives for the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk to accommodate lactose intolerance.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?

To prevent ice crystals, ensure the mixture is well-blended and tightly covered during freezing. Using sweetened condensed milk also helps achieve a smoother texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, use a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative, and ensure the soda is vegan-friendly.

How do I serve Dr. Pepper ice cream?

Serve the ice cream in bowls, cones, or glasses. For a fun twist, create a Dr. Pepper float by adding a scoop of the ice cream to a glass of Dr. Pepper.

Conclusion

Dr. Pepper ice cream is a delightful and creative way to enjoy the unique flavors of the classic soda in a creamy dessert form. Whether you're a fan of the original drink or looking to try something new, this homemade ice cream offers a refreshing and indulgent treat that's sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen and enjoy a fun, fizzy dessert experience.