Ice cream is a dessert that brings joy to people of all ages. Whether it’s a special treat on a hot day or a comfort food to enjoy any time of the year, ice cream holds a special place in our hearts. While store-bought ice cream offers a variety of flavors, there’s something truly rewarding about making your own from scratch. Homemade ice cream gives you the freedom to experiment with unique flavors, and one of the most fun and vibrant twists you can add is Tang, the iconic powdered drink mix. By combining the tangy and refreshing taste of Tang with creamy ingredients, this recipe creates an ice cream bursting with citrusy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of Tang or simply looking for something different to cool down with, this Homemade Tang Ice Cream is a fun treat that promises to brighten up any day.
Ingredients
For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup Tang powder (orange flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 5 hours and 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 5 hours (or overnight)
Instructions:
- Combine Dairy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Whisk them together until well blended. The milk and cream will form the base of your ice cream, providing the creamy texture. - Add the Sugar and Tang
Next, add the granulated sugar to the mixture, stirring continuously to help it dissolve completely. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, add the Tang powder. This is where the fun begins! Stir the Tang powder into the mixture until it’s fully incorporated. The powder will add both a vibrant orange color and a tangy citrus flavor that makes this ice cream special. Make sure there are no lumps left in the mixture. - Flavor and Salt
Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. The vanilla will enhance the tangy flavor of the Tang and create a balanced, smooth taste. Add a pinch of salt to bring all the flavors together. Stir everything until it’s well combined. - Chill the Mixture
Once everything is thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial because the ice cream mixture needs to be cold before you churn it. Chilling the base also helps the flavors meld together more effectively. - Churn the Ice Cream
After the mixture has chilled, it’s time to churn the ice cream. If you have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into the machine and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning. Typically, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes for the ice cream to reach the consistency of soft serve. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can still make this ice cream by placing the chilled mixture in a shallow container and putting it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, take it out and use a fork to stir the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals. Continue doing this until the ice cream firms up and reaches your desired consistency. This process can take around 4 hours. - Freeze to Firm
Once the ice cream has reached soft serve consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4 more hours, or until it becomes firm enough to scoop.
After hours of chilling, churning, and freezing, your Homemade Tang Ice Cream is ready to be enjoyed. This fun and colorful treat offers a refreshing twist on the classic ice cream you know and love. The combination of tangy orange flavor with creamy texture makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, enjoying a quiet afternoon, or simply craving something unique, this ice cream will add a burst of sunshine to your day. The best part? It’s easy to make and totally customizable. You can even add mix-ins like chopped fruit, chocolate chips, or marshmallows for extra texture. So, scoop up a bowl, sit back, and savor the sweet, tangy goodness of this Homemade Tang Ice Cream!