Why You’ll Love this Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic ice cream, you’re going to love this Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and has a tangy flavor that sets it apart from regular ice cream.
The combination of buttermilk and cream creates a smooth texture, while the spices add warmth and depth. I adore making it for gatherings; it’s always a hit!
Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients of Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream
Making Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream is a delightful adventure that starts with some pretty simple ingredients. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen right now, and if you don’t, they’re easy to find.
The beauty of this recipe is that it combines basic pantry staples with a little Southern charm to create something truly special. So, let’s get into what you’ll need to whip up this creamy, tangy treat.
Ingredients for Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream:
- 4 cups whole buttermilk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
When gathering your ingredients, don’t be afraid to get a little creative. For example, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could swap in different spices or even add a splash of bourbon for that extra Southern flair—just imagine the flavor dancing on your taste buds!
And while the buttermilk is essential for that signature tang, you could experiment with flavored extracts or even a fruit puree if you’re in the mood for something fruity.
Just remember, though, that the balance of flavors is key, so tread lightly with any adjustments. But hey, who says you can’t have a little fun in the kitchen? Just brace yourself for the deliciousness that’s about to unfold.
How to Make Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and plunge into the fun part—making that Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream. First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in those 4 cups of whole buttermilk. It’s the star of the show, bringing that creamy, tangy goodness we all love.
Next up, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. This is where the magic happens; it adds richness and makes the ice cream extra dreamy. Now, let’s sweeten the deal with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of firmly packed light brown sugar. The brown sugar not only enhances the flavor but gives your ice cream that lovely caramel undertone.
Now that we’ve got our base, it’s time to sprinkle in some flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice. Just imagine that warm, cozy aroma filling your kitchen as you mix these spices in.
Stir everything together until it’s well combined—no lumps allowed here. If you find yourself tasting the mixture, well, who could blame you? But remember, it’s not quite ice cream yet. Once your mixture is looking smooth and inviting, it’s time to transfer it into your ice cream freezer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for freezing, and voila, you’re halfway there.
But hold on, we’re not done yet. When you pull your ice cream out of the machine, it will be soft and fluffy, almost like a delicious cloud. If you’re like me and prefer a firmer scoop, pop it into an airtight container with a lid and stick it in the freezer for about 8 hours or overnight. Trust me, the wait is worth it.
Oh, and a little tip from my own ice cream-making escapades: I usually freeze the inside cylinder of my ice cream maker for a good 48 hours before making ice cream. It’s not absolutely necessary, but it definitely helps in getting that perfect scoopable texture.
Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream Substitutions & Variations
While traditional Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream is a delightful treat as is, there’s plenty of room to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For a tangier flavor, try using Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream works beautifully.
You can also switch up the sugars; maple syrup or honey can add a unique sweetness.
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of bourbon for an adult twist.
Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite fruits or nuts for added texture and flavor. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream
When I think about serving Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream, I can’t help but imagine the perfect pairings that can elevate this creamy treat. A warm slice of peach cobbler or a rich chocolate brownie makes for a delightful contrast.
I also love to drizzle homemade caramel or berry sauce over the ice cream for added flavor. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, offers a revitalizing touch.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I might serve it alongside a slice of pecan pie. Each pairing brings out the ice cream’s tangy notes and creamy texture, making every bite a celebration of Southern goodness.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Southern Buttermilk Ice Cream turns out perfectly every time, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind.
First, make sure your mixing bowl and ice cream maker’s cylinder are well-chilled; I often freeze mine for 48 hours before use.
When mixing, stir gently to avoid incorporating too much air. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or experimenting with different spices.
Finally, let the ice cream sit out for about 10 minutes before serving for easier scooping.
Trust me, these small details make a big difference in the final result! Enjoy your creamy treat!