Although frozen treats can be enjoyed year-round, nothing screams summer like ice cream.
We recently had a rare day without plans, and I was brainstorming some at-home projects for the kids to do. Inspired by a post for Mason jar ice cream that I came across during the early days of the pandemic — when everyone was locked down, scrolling social media, and baking bread — I knew that we would try our hand at making homemade ice cream together.
If you’re looking for a crafty no-cook activity, making ice cream in a jar at home is a great way to combine kitchen skills with creativity, and the reward is a treat everyone will love.
Plus, you don’t need an ice cream maker to do it! With just a few culinary staples and a bit of patience, you can create ice cream right in your own kitchen.
This small-batch recipe almost seems too simple to turn out tasty. Basic ingredients — heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. No fancy appliances — a canning jar will do. Combine everything, shake, and freeze.
It’s a no-churn, single-serve, DIY option that’s wholesome and fun for the family to make, and actually results in a delicious dessert.
It’s completely customizable too, as the mix-in flavor options are endless. We made three jars, and added mini chocolate chips and strawberry jam to two of them, and a little peanut butter at the last minute. More ideas include Nutella, chopped fruit, crushed cookies, and sprinkles.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 16 oz. canning jar
- Optional: Mix-ins of choice (e.g., 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips, strawberry jam, or peanut butter)
Instructions:
- Pour the cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt into the jar.
- Optional: Add mix-ins.
- Screw the lid on tightly, then stir or shake the mixture vigorously, about 5 minutes.
- Freeze for at least 3-4 hours.
Voilà! Sweet, thick, homemade ice cream. It’s so easy, a kid can do it.
