Blue Moon Ice Cream is a whimsical, bright blue dessert with a mysterious flavor profile that has captivated the Midwest for decades. Often described as tasting like a mix of raspberry, lemon, and vanilla, this nostalgic treat is as fun to eat as it is to look at. Whether it’s reminiscent of Fruity Pebbles cereal or evokes memories of childhood summers, Blue Moon Ice Cream is a delightful indulgence.

Blue Moon Ice Cream

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of the classic Blue Moon flavor without the need for an ice cream maker. The combination of raspberry and lemon extracts, along with a hint of vanilla, creates a unique and refreshing taste. The vibrant blue color adds a playful touch, making it a hit at parties and gatherings. Plus, the no-churn method means I can whip it up easily at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sweetened condensed milk
Salt
Almond extract
Vanilla extract
Raspberry extract
Blue food coloring
Heavy cream

Directions

Prepare the base:
I whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, salt, almond extract, vanilla extract, raspberry extract, and blue food coloring in a large bowl until fully combined.
Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Combine:
I gently fold half of the whipped cream into the blue mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining whipped cream until no streaks remain.
Freeze:
I transfer the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan, cover it with foil, and freeze for at least 5 hours or until firm.
Serve:
I let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect texture.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 quart of ice cream, serving about 6 people. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, with a freezing time of at least 5 hours.

Variations

Flavor twist: I sometimes add a teaspoon of lemon extract for a citrusy kick.
Color change: For a different visual appeal, I experiment with natural food colorings like butterfly pea flower powder.
Add-ins: I mix in mini marshmallows or white chocolate chips for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To serve, I let it soften at room temperature for 5-10 minutes for easier scooping. Since it’s ice cream, reheating isn’t necessary.

FAQs

What does Blue Moon Ice Cream taste like?

Blue Moon Ice Cream has a unique flavor that’s often described as a blend of raspberry, lemon, and vanilla. Some say it tastes like Fruity Pebbles or a sweet, citrusy vanilla.

Is this recipe no-churn?

Yes, this is a no-churn recipe, meaning I don’t need an ice cream maker to prepare it.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Absolutely. I can use natural food colorings like butterfly pea flower powder to achieve the blue hue.

How long does it take to freeze?

I recommend freezing the ice cream for at least 5 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative.

Conclusion

Blue Moon Ice Cream is a delightful, colorful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia and fun to any occasion. With its unique flavor and easy preparation, it’s a perfect dessert to enjoy during warm weather or whenever I’m craving something sweet and whimsical.