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Don’t you yearn to bite into something chilly on a hot day?

We all scream for ice cream, and soft serve is one of the most popular forms.

That’s because it’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients and an ice cream maker.

But, What is soft serve ice cream?

Soft serve is an ice cream made with less milk fat and air than other types of ice cream.

It is usually served at a slightly warmer temperature than regular ice cream, so it can be easily eaten without melting too quickly.

What’s the difference between soft serve and regular ice cream?

The main difference between soft serve and regular ice cream is the amount of air that is whipped into the mixture.

Soft serve has less air, making it denser and smoother than regular ice cream.

It is served at a slightly warmer temperature, so it can be easily eaten without melting too quickly.

What’s the best way to serve soft serve ice cream?

You can serve soft serve ice cream in a few different ways.

The most popular way is in a cone, but you can also get it in a cup or sundae.

You can also top it with toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce, or fruit.

Here’s a list of some of the best soft serve ice cream recipes we could find, so you can start enjoying this delicious treat again in no time!

1. Classic Vanilla Soft Serve

Vanilla is the standard by which all other soft serve recipes are judged.

Its simple yet perfect flavor will have you going back for more.

Ingredients

1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step By Step Instructions

1. Combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, constantly stirring, until it comes to a boil.

2. Add the heavy cream and cook until the mixture thickens and boils.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Pour the mixture into a bowl and place it in the refrigerator to cool for at least 2 hours or overnight.

5. When the mixture is cool, pour it into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Serve the soft serve immediately or store it in the freezer for later.

Notes

You can use any milk you like for this recipe. I typically use whole milk, but you could also use 2% or skim.
You could use heavy cream instead of milk if you want a richer flavor.
You could add other flavors to this recipe, such as chocolate, strawberry, or coffee. Just add them in when you stir in the vanilla extract.
If you want a firmer consistency, you can store the soft serve in the freezer for a few hours before serving.

2. Chocolate Soft Serve

This rich and creamy chocolate soft serve will satisfy your sweet tooth like no other.

The best part is, it’s so easy to make at home!

Ingredients

1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step By Step Instructions

The first step is to make a chocolate syrup by whisking together the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, then remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
Next, whisk in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until combined.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and freeze for later.
Enjoy your soft chocolate serve!

Notes

You can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate if you want a richer flavor.

3. Vanilla Soft Serve

This classic soft serve recipe is so versatile and easy to make.

You can enjoy it as is or add your favorite toppings for a truly unique treat.

Ingredients

1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream

Step By Step Instructions

1. Combine milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook mixture, frequently stirring, until it comes to a boil.

2. Remove pan from heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream. Return mixture to heat and cook for 1 minute or until thickened.

3. Pour mixture into a blender and blend on high speed for 30 seconds.

4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for later.

Is there a difference between soft serve and ice cream?

Some people say soft serve is a type of ice cream, while others believe soft serve is a separate frozen dessert category.

Technically speaking, ice cream must contain 10% milkfat, while soft serve contains only 5-6% milkfat.

This lower fat content gives soft serve its characteristic lighter, fluffier texture.

Soft serve is also served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, contributing to its smoother consistency.

So there you have it: soft serve is ice cream with a lower milk fat content and a different texture due to its warmer serving temperature.

Whether you call it soft serve or ice cream, it’s sure to be a delicious treat!

What makes soft serve creamy?

A few things contribute to the creaminess of soft serve, including the type of milk used, the amount of air incorporated, and the fat content.

Whole milk will produce a more prosperous and creamy soft serve than skim milk.

Meanwhile, incorporating more air into the mix will make for a lighter and fluffier final product, while using less air will make it more dense and creamy.

And finally, the higher fat content will make for a richer and more decadent soft serve.

So if you’re looking to up the creaminess factor, opt for whole milk and higher fat content.