Homemade Grape Juice Ice Cream – No Churn

Last updated on July 24, 2025

The scent of summer often takes me back to my grandmother’s porch, where the sun soaked everything in a warm, golden hue. I remember those long afternoons when, with a few simple ingredients, she conjured up the most delightful treats from scratch. One of my fondest memories is when she introduced me to her homemade Grape Juice Ice Cream. It was a simple recipe, yet it brought so much joy—both in making it together and in sharing it with friends and family on a hot day.

Making ice cream can seem daunting, especially for beginners. Perhaps you’ve thought about how to whip up a luscious homemade dessert, but worry about complicating steps or ruining it altogether. Don’t fret! This recipe is made simple and stress-free, even if you’re tackling ice cream for the first time. So get ready to dive into the sweetness of homemade ice cream, crafted with love from pure grape juice!

Why I Love This Recipe of Grape Juice Ice Cream

What makes this Grape Juice Ice Cream special is its nostalgic flavor that reminds me of simpler times. It’s a recipe that requires just a handful of ingredients, which makes it perfect for beginner cooks. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating something so creamy and delicious from scratch. Plus, it’s a refreshing treat during hot summer days.

I love how this recipe opens doors for creativity. You can experiment with flavors, and it’s simple enough for kids to help with. Imagine the joy on their faces as they churn the ice cream or scoop it into bowls! It’s a cozy, practical treat that makes any gathering a bit more special. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or just enjoying it on a quiet evening at home, this ice cream brings a sense of comfort that few other desserts can match.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grape Juice Ice Cream

Creating Grape Juice Ice Cream starts with gathering your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Homemade Grape Juice Ice Cream

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Grape Juice Ice Cream recipe is a refreshing and fruity twist on classic ice cream, combining the natural sweetness of 100% grape juice with creamy dairy ingredients. Perfect for summer days, it can be made with or without an ice cream maker.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups grape juice (100% pure, no added sugar)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together grape juice, heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice if using. Cover and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
2. Churn with Ice Cream Maker: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 20–30 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours.
3. No-Churn Method: Pour the prepared mixture into a shallow dish or loaf pan. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze, stirring with a fork every 30 minutes for 4–6 hours to break up ice crystals.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once firm and scoopable, serve in bowls or cones with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• For a dairy-free version, replace half of the heavy cream with coconut milk.
• Adjust the sugar based on the natural sweetness of your grape juice.
• Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts after churning for extra texture and flavor.
• Chilling the mixture before churning ensures a smoother, creamier result.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (churn or stirring time)
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Churned or No-Churn
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ½ cup
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 25mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: grape juice ice cream, homemade ice cream, no-churn ice cream, summer dessert, fruity ice cream

Essentials

• 2 cups grape juice (100% pure, no added sugar): The star of this recipe! Make sure to select grape juice that is all-natural and free from added sugars to keep the flavor authentic and fresh.

• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what gives the ice cream its rich, creamy texture. The heavy cream helps to create that luxurious mouthfeel that we all love in homemade ice cream.

• 1 cup whole milk: This balances out the richness of the cream while providing a smooth consistency.

• ¾ cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the mixture. You can adjust this amount based on personal preference and the sweetness of your grape juice.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth of flavor): While grape juice is sweet and delicious on its own, adding a splash of vanilla can enhance the flavor profile.

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, enhances grape flavor): This is another optional ingredient but can bring out the beautiful notes of the grape juice, making it even more refreshing.

Optional Add-Ons

• Chocolate chips or chunks: Add a handful of chocolate chips or chunks after churning for a decadent twist.

• Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you find yourself short on heavy cream, you can substitute half of it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a lower-calorie version, you might use less sugar or substitute a sugar alternative like stevia, but remember to adjust according to sweetness!

How to Make Grape Juice Ice Cream Step-by-Step

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Making ice cream might sound like a complex process, but I promise you, I’m going to walk you through it step-by-step to make it as easy as pie.

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the grape juice, heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. If you’re adding vanilla or lemon juice, go ahead and mix those in, too. I like to whisk the mixture thoroughly to dissolve the sugar completely. You want a smooth and homogenous mix.

After whisking, cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture helps to ensure your ice cream churns properly and has an excellent texture.

Step 2: Churn the Ice Cream (Using an Ice Cream Maker)

If you’re using an ice cream maker (a great investment for any ice cream lover), take your chilled mixture out of the fridge and pour it into the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Turn on the machine and let it churn away. This process typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your machine. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture has thickened to a soft-serve consistency.

When it reaches that point, transfer your soft ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop.

Step 3: No-Churn Method (Without an Ice Cream Maker)

Don’t have an ice cream maker? No worries! You can make this Grape Juice Ice Cream without one. After preparing your ice cream base as outlined in Step 1, pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a loaf pan.

Cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes for the first few hours, take a fork and stir the mixture. This will help break up any ice crystals, giving you that creamy texture we love.

After 4 to 6 hours, your ice cream should be ready to serve!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your ice cream reaches that perfect scoopable consistency, it’s time for the best part—serving it! Scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. You can add toppings like fresh berries, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Grape Juice Ice Cream can be smooth sailing if you keep a few things in mind. Here are some common missteps to avoid:

Not Chilling the Mixture Properly

An important step is to chill your mixture. If you skip this, your ice cream may not churn well, resulting in a less creamy texture.

Over-Churning the Ice Cream

If you’re using an ice cream maker, be careful not to over-churn. If it gets too thick, it can become grainy. Always monitor the consistency towards the end.

Not Stirring Often Enough (No-Churn Method)

If you’re using the no-churn method, failing to stir regularly can lead to ice crystals forming, which can ruin the texture. Set a timer, so you don’t forget!

Forgetting To Store Properly

When you’re ready to store your ice cream, make sure it’s in an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps your ice cream delicious for longer.

Quick Wins for Beginner Cooks

Starting your culinary journey can feel overwhelming, but these quick wins can guide you along the way in making Grape Juice Ice Cream.

Always Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh grape juice (100% pure, no sugar added) is vital for the best flavor. When selecting your ingredients, opt for the best quality you can find, as this will reflect in your final product.

Pre-Chill Your Tools

Consider chilling your mixing bowl and any utensils before starting. This little trick can help keep the mixture cold longer, leading to a better consistency.

Do Some Prep Work

Measure out your ingredients ahead of time. This will make the process smoother and less daunting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.

Get Creative with Flavors

Don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavors! Try combining grape juice with other fruit juices, or add spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

When you feel comfortable with the basics, these tips can take your Grape Juice Ice Cream to the next level.

Infuse Unique Flavors

If you’re looking for a twist, steep fresh mint leaves in your heavy cream before mixing it with the other ingredients. This can add an interesting depth to your ice cream.

Make it a Float

When serving, consider pairing the Grape Juice Ice Cream with sparkling lemonade or soda to create a delightful float. It adds a fizzy element that’s refreshing and fun.

Create a Ripple Effect

To elevate your ice cream, try creating a ripple effect with a fruit puree or chocolate sauce. Swirl it into the mixture before freezing for an eye-catching dessert.

Host an Ice Cream Party

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, invite friends or family over for an ice cream-making party. Everyone can get creative with their flavors and toppings, making it a fun and cohesive experience.

Conclusion & Next Steps

As you can see, making Grape Juice Ice Cream is far easier than it looks! With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. The best part? You can customize it to suit your tastes, so you’ll never grow tired of it.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a family gathering or just a quiet night in. Enjoy the coziness and satisfaction of homemade ice cream. And don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!

Now, why not dive into the kitchen and savor that sweet, grape-flavored goodness? You won’t regret it!

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FAQs About Grape Juice Ice Cream