If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the refreshing sweetness of strawberries, this homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream will become your new obsession. With a velvety cream cheese base, swirls of fresh strawberry compote, and buttery graham cracker chunks, this recipe delivers everything you love about cheesecake—transformed into a refreshing frozen dessert.

Whether you own an ice cream machine or prefer a simple no-churn method, this recipe gives you both options. It’s easy, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress family, friends, or even dinner party guests.

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🕒 Quick Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time (compote): 10 minutes
• Chilling/Freezing Time: 4–6 hours
• Total Time: 4–7 hours
• Servings: 8–10 scoops
• Difficulty: Easy

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled & diced; frozen works too)
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Cheesecake Ice Cream Base:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups heavy cream (cold)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Mix-Ins:

• 1 cup graham crackers (roughly crushed)
• Optional: extra strawberry slices or sauce drizzle for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Strawberry Compote

1. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until strawberries break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Mash lightly with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
4. Cool completely before using.

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2. Prepare the Cheesecake Base

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing until creamy.
3. Slowly whisk in milk until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
5. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

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3. Churn or Freeze

• With Ice Cream Maker: Pour mixture into machine and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
• No-Churn Method: Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for 2 hours. Stir once to break ice crystals, then freeze fully.

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4. Add the Swirl & Mix-Ins

1. Transfer half of the ice cream base to a container.
2. Drizzle strawberry compote and sprinkle graham crackers.
3. Add remaining ice cream, repeat with compote and crackers.
4. Use a butter knife to gently swirl (don’t overmix).
5. Freeze at least 4 hours or until scoopable.

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🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Ice Cream

• Prevent Ice Crystals: Chill the base mixture thoroughly before freezing.
• Boost Creaminess: Add 1 tbsp vodka or corn syrup—helps keep texture smooth.
• Flavor Balance: Taste compote; adjust sugar if strawberries are too tart.
• Better Graham Crunch: Toast crushed graham crackers lightly before adding.

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🍨 Variations & Customizations

• Chocolate Swirl: Add melted dark chocolate ribbons.
• Lemon Zest Twist: Brightens the cheesecake flavor.
• Oreo Cheesecake Ice Cream: Swap graham crackers for Oreos.
• Keto-Friendly: Use erythritol + almond flour “graham” crumbs.
• Vegan Version: Use cashew cream + coconut milk, vegan cream cheese, maple syrup as sweetener.

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🧊 Storage & Shelf Life

• Store in an airtight freezer container.
• Best enjoyed within 2 weeks for optimal texture.
• To scoop easily, let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.

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📊 Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, ~1 scoop)

• Calories: ~280
• Carbs: 28 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Sugar: 23 g

(Values are approximate and vary by ingredients used.)

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
✅ Yes! Use the no-churn method with whipped cream for a creamy result.

Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries?
✅ Absolutely—just thaw slightly and cook into compote.

Q3: How long does homemade ice cream last?
✅ Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container before texture declines.

Q4: Can I reduce the sugar?
✅ Yes, but too little sugar can make ice cream icy. Use alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or erythritol.

Q5: Can I double the recipe for a party?
✅ Yes, but churn in batches so it freezes evenly.

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🍴 Serving Ideas

• Scoop into waffle cones for a carnival-style dessert.
• Layer in parfait glasses with extra strawberry sauce.
• Serve with brownies or shortcake for a gourmet touch.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

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🏆 Final Thoughts

This strawberry cheesecake ice cream recipe is more than just dessert—it’s a show-stopping treat that combines all the best flavors of cheesecake and summer fruit into one scoopable delight. With a creamy cheesecake base, luscious strawberry swirls, and crunchy graham pieces, it delivers indulgence in every bite.

Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to homemade ice cream recipe for parties, summer gatherings, or simply when you crave something special.