Frozen Treats

Snickerdoodle Ice Cream

Name: Snickerdoodle Ice Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp fine salt; 2 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup snickerdoodle cookie crumbs; 1/4 cup chopped cinnamon sugar

By Kaia Jardine · June 19, 2026 · Frozen Treats

Prep30 min

Cook0 min

Total270 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I tried snickerdoodle ice cream - the combination of cinnamon, sugar, and creamy texture was love at first bite. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate this delicious dessert in my own kitchen. After months of experimentation, I finally perfected my snickerdoodle ice cream recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is special because it captures the essence of snickerdoodle cookies in a creamy, dreamy ice cream. The cinnamon and sugar add a warm, comforting flavor that's perfect for any time of year. Whether you're a fan of cookies, ice cream, or just looking for a new dessert to try, this snickerdoodle ice cream is sure to become a favorite.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's easy to make and requires minimal special equipment. You'll need an ice cream maker, but if you don't have one, don't worry - I'll provide instructions for making it without one as well. The most important thing is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the instructions carefully, as this will ensure that your ice cream turns out smooth and creamy.

I love making this ice cream for family gatherings and parties, as it's always a hit with both kids and adults. The best part is that you can customize it to your taste by adding different mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or candy pieces. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness of snickerdoodle ice cream!

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making snickerdoodle ice cream from scratch. We'll start with the basics of making the ice cream base, then move on to churning and freezing it. I'll also provide tips and tricks for customizing the recipe and troubleshooting common issues. By the end of this article, you'll be a pro at making snickerdoodle ice cream and will be able to enjoy this delicious dessert all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal special equipment.
The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and cream creates a rich and creamy texture that's perfect for ice cream.
The recipe can be customized with different mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or candy pieces.
The ice cream is perfect for warm weather treats and dessert lovers.
The recipe is great for family gatherings and parties, as it's always a hit with both kids and adults.
The recipe can be made without an ice cream maker, making it accessible to everyone.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great snickerdoodle ice cream is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the instructions carefully. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and cream creates a rich and creamy texture that's perfect for ice cream. The cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor that's balanced by the sweetness of the sugar.

Another important factor is the temperature of the ingredients. Using room-temperature ingredients ensures that the mixture will churn smoothly and evenly, resulting in a creamy texture. It's also important to not over-churn the ice cream, as this can lead to an icy texture.

In addition to the ingredients and temperature, the churning process is also crucial. Using an ice cream maker ensures that the mixture will be churned consistently and evenly, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can also make the ice cream without one by freezing the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blending it in a food processor once it's frozen solid.

Overall, the combination of high-quality ingredients, careful temperature control, and precise churning and freezing techniques all come together to create a delicious and creamy snickerdoodle ice cream that's sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious snickerdoodle ice cream, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. You'll also need an ice cream maker, but if you don't have one, don't worry - I'll provide instructions for making it without one as well.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items, as this will affect the flavor and texture of the final product. For example, using real vanilla extract will give the ice cream a deeper, more complex flavor than using imitation extract. Similarly, choosing high-quality cinnamon will add a warm, comforting flavor to the ice cream.

2 cups heavy creamHeavy cream is essential for creating a rich and creamy texture in the ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that contains at least 36% fat.
1 cup whole milkWhole milk adds a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness to the ice cream. You can also use 2% or skim milk if you prefer a lighter texture.
1/2 cup granulated sugarGranulated sugar adds sweetness and helps to balance the flavor of the cinnamon and other ingredients. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
1/4 cup brown sugarBrown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that contains at least 50% brown sugar.
2 tsp ground cinnamonGround cinnamon is essential for creating the warm, comforting flavor of snickerdoodle cookies. Look for a high-quality brand that is fresh and fragrant.
1 tsp vanilla extractVanilla extract adds a deep, complex flavor to the ice cream. Look for a high-quality brand that is made from real vanilla beans.
1/4 tsp fine saltFine salt helps to balance the flavor of the other ingredients and adds a touch of sweetness to the ice cream. Use a high-quality brand that is fresh and fragrant.
2 large egg yolksEgg yolks add richness and creaminess to the ice cream. Look for fresh, high-quality eggs that are free of cracks and imperfections.
1/2 cup snickerdoodle cookie crumbsSnickerdoodle cookie crumbs add a fun texture and flavor to the ice cream. You can make your own cookie crumbs by baking snickerdoodle cookies and then crushing them in a food processor.
1/4 cup chopped cinnamon sugarChopped cinnamon sugar adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the ice cream. You can make your own cinnamon sugar by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

Equipment You’ll Need

Ice cream makerMedium saucepanHand mixer or whisk1-quart ice cream container with lidInstant-read thermometerMeasuring cups and spoonsElectric mixer or food processor

How to Make Snickerdoodle Ice Cream

1
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon and fine salt. Add the cinnamon mixture to the cooled cream mixture and whisk until well combined.
4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the cooled cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F on an instant-read thermometer.
6
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7
Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8
During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the snickerdoodle cookie crumbs and chopped cinnamon sugar. Continue to churn until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly distributed.
9
Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the container in the freezer and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
10
Once the ice cream is frozen, scoop it into bowls and serve immediately. You can also top the ice cream with additional snickerdoodle cookie crumbs or chopped cinnamon sugar, if desired.
11
If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can also make the ice cream without one. Simply pour the chilled mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and freeze for about 2 hours, or until the edges start to set. Then, use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up any ice crystals that have formed. Repeat this process every 30 minutes, scraping and breaking up the ice crystals, until the ice cream is the desired consistency.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as real vanilla extract and fresh cinnamon, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't over-churn the ice cream, as this can lead to an icy texture.
If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can also make the ice cream without one by freezing the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blending it in a food processor once it's frozen solid.
Add mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts, to the ice cream during the last 2 minutes of churning for a fun and unique flavor.
Experiment with different flavors, such as adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of espresso powder, to create a unique and delicious ice cream.
Make sure to temper the egg yolks slowly and carefully, as this will help to prevent the eggs from scrambling and the mixture from becoming too thick.
Don't overcook the mixture, as this can lead to a custard-like texture that's too thick and heavy.
Use a high-quality ice cream maker that's designed for making small batches of ice cream, as this will help to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not tempering the egg yolks slowly and carefully, which can lead to scrambled eggs and a thick, custard-like texture.
Over-churning the ice cream, which can lead to an icy texture and a loss of flavor.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as real vanilla extract and fresh cinnamon, which can affect the flavor and texture of the ice cream.
Not freezing the ice cream long enough, which can lead to a soft and icy texture.
Not scraping and breaking up the ice crystals during the freezing process, which can lead to a grainy and uneven texture.
Adding mix-ins too early, which can lead to an uneven distribution of flavors and textures.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a pinch of salt to the mixture for a unique and savory flavor.
Use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy ice cream.
Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the mixture for a mocha-flavored ice cream.
Use different types of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the mixture for a fun and tasty texture.
Experiment with different flavors, such as lemon or raspberry, for a unique and delicious ice cream.
Make a boozy ice cream by adding a tablespoon or two of liquor, such as bourbon or rum, to the mixture.

What to Serve With Snickerdoodle Ice Cream

Serve the snickerdoodle ice cream in bowls or cones, topped with additional snickerdoodle cookie crumbs or chopped cinnamon sugar if desired. You can also serve the ice cream with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a sweet and refreshing treat.

Consider pairing the ice cream with other desserts, such as brownies or cookies, for a decadent and indulgent treat. You can also use the ice cream as a topping for cakes, pies, or other desserts, or as a base for milkshakes and smoothies.

Serve the ice cream in bowls or cones, topped with additional snickerdoodle cookie crumbs or chopped cinnamon sugar if desired.Pair the ice cream with other desserts, such as brownies or cookies, for a decadent and indulgent treat.Use the ice cream as a topping for cakes, pies, or other desserts.Make milkshakes or smoothies using the ice cream as a base.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Store the snickerdoodle ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 days. If you won't be serving the ice cream within 3 days, consider freezing it in a shallow metal pan and then transferring it to an airtight container once it's frozen solid.

To make the ice cream ahead of time, simply prepare the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator until you're ready to churn it. You can also make the ice cream without an ice cream maker by freezing the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blending it in a food processor once it's frozen solid.

If you're having trouble with the ice cream becoming too icy or grainy, try scraping and breaking up the ice crystals during the freezing process. You can also try adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of corn syrup to the mixture to help improve the texture and flavor.

Reheat the ice cream by placing it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving, or by letting it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat the ice cream in the microwave by heating it in short increments, stirring between each heating, until the desired consistency is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ice cream maker should I use?

You can use any type of ice cream maker, but a small-batch ice cream maker is recommended for this recipe. Look for an ice cream maker that's designed for making small batches of ice cream, as this will help to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can make this recipe without an ice cream maker. Simply pour the chilled mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and freeze for about 2 hours, or until the edges start to set. Then, use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up any ice crystals that have formed. Repeat this process every 30 minutes, scraping and breaking up the ice crystals, until the ice cream is the desired consistency.

What type of sugar should I use?

You can use any type of sugar you prefer, but granulated sugar and brown sugar are recommended for this recipe. Look for a high-quality brand that's fresh and fragrant, and adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.

Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream?

Yes, you can add mix-ins to the ice cream during the last 2 minutes of churning. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or candy pieces for a fun and unique flavor.

How long will the ice cream keep?

The ice cream will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the freezer. If you won't be serving the ice cream within 3 days, consider freezing it in a shallow metal pan and then transferring it to an airtight container once it's frozen solid.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator until you're ready to churn it. You can also make the ice cream without an ice cream maker by freezing the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blending it in a food processor once it's frozen solid.

How do I reheat the ice cream?

What if the ice cream becomes too icy or grainy?

If the ice cream becomes too icy or grainy, try scraping and breaking up the ice crystals during the freezing process. You can also try adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of corn syrup to the mixture to help improve the texture and flavor.

The Full Recipe

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