Cherry Chip Ice Cream

Ingredients  

For the Cherry Ice Cream

• 2 cups cherries (pitted and chopped)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
• 1 dash salt

For Mixing in

• 3/4 cup cherries (finely diced)
• 2 TBS granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl

Instructions

• Freeze the bowl of a 2QT ice cream maker at least 12 hours in advanced, before making the ice cream.
• Add 2 cups of the chopped cherries to a large bowl with the granulated sugar and stir it together. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
• Scoop the cherries, sugar, and heavy cream into a blender and blend until the cherries are chopped up and the mixture is combined.
• Stir the milk into the cream mixture. Add in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and the salt.
• Pour the cherry cream mixture through a strainer to strain out the cherry skins.
• Add the ice cream to a prepared ice cream maker and churn according to the ice cream makers directions, about 30 minutes.
• Add the remaining 3/4 cup of cherries to a small bowl with the granulated sugar and let it sit while the ice cream is churning.
• Strain the cherries through a fine mesh strainer to get the extra liquid out. Blot lightly with a paper towel.
• Once the ice cream is thickened to a soft serve consistency, add in the chocolate chips and chopped cherry pieces. Let it churn for another 5 to 10 minutes until they are mixed well into the ice cream.
• Serve immediately for a creamy, soft ice cream, or scoop it into a 2QT container and cover and freeze for at least 6 hours, or even better overnight.