How to Make Cheese Ice Cream – A Sweet & Savory Twist on a Frozen Classic

If you’re looking to take your ice cream game to a whole new level, cheese ice cream might just be the delightful surprise you didn’t know you needed. Creamy, rich, and slightly savory with the perfect balance of sweetness, this Filipino-inspired frozen dessert is a must-try for adventurous foodies and dessert lovers alike. Whether you’re tired of typical vanilla or chocolate flavors or you just want something unique to wow your guests, this cheese ice cream recipe is a showstopper.

This recipe is especially perfect for those who love contrasting flavors — the creaminess of dairy, the hint of saltiness from cheddar cheese, and the familiar indulgence of sugar and cream all come together in one scoop. It’s also a fantastic dessert for tropical climates, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with your favorite people (or by yourself with a spoon — no judgment here!).

Why Cheese Ice Cream Deserves a Spot in Your Freezer

You might be wondering: cheese in ice cream? Yes — and here’s why it works so well.

• Unique Flavor Profile: A delicious combination of sweet, salty, and creamy makes this dessert unforgettable.

• Smooth & Velvety Texture: Thanks to a mix of evaporated milk, fresh milk, and all-purpose cream, the final product is incredibly smooth.

• Cultural Favorite: This ice cream is a beloved staple in the Philippines and is gaining popularity worldwide.

• No Fancy Equipment Needed: You can make this without an ice cream machine — just a mixer and a freezer will do.

Ingredients – What You’ll Need

This recipe yields about 4–6 servings of rich, homemade cheese ice cream.

• 1 cup all-purpose cream – for a luscious, smooth texture

• ½ cup fresh milk – adds lightness and helps dissolve the sugar

• 1½ cups evaporated milk – brings creaminess and depth

• 1½ cups white sugar – sweetens and stabilizes the mixture

• 1 egg – thickens and adds richness

• 125g cheddar cheese, diced – the hero of the dish, providing those irresistible cheesy bites

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To prepare cheese ice cream from scratch, gather these tools:

• Medium-sized saucepan

• Mixing spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk or electric hand mixer

• Aluminum pan or freezer-safe container

• Refrigerator and freezer

• Knife and chopping board (for the cheese)

No ice cream maker? No problem. This recipe is designed for home kitchens without specialty gear.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the all-purpose cream, fresh milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and egg. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved. Be patient — gentle heat prevents curdling the egg.

2. Simmer Until Thickened

Continue to stir as the mixture begins to simmer gently. It will thicken slightly — similar to a light custard consistency. This step helps create that creamy, scoopable texture.

3. Add the Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the diced cheddar cheese while the mixture is still warm. The cheese will soften slightly but stay chunky, giving delightful cheesy bursts in every bite.

4. Chill the Mixture

Transfer the entire mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully chill. This step is essential before whipping.

5. Beat Until Fluffy

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the chilled mixture until it has doubled in volume. This incorporates air and makes the ice cream lighter.

6. Freeze to Perfection

Pour the whipped mixture into an aluminum pan or any freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula and freeze for 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Expert Tips & Recipe Variations

Pro Tips:

• Do not boil the mixture — only simmer gently to avoid cooking the egg too fast.

• Chill thoroughly before whipping to get that creamy, airy texture.

• Dice cheese finely so it distributes evenly and blends well with the creamy base.

Variations to Try:

• Ube Cheese Ice Cream: Add ube halaya (purple yam jam) for a vibrant Filipino twist.

• Cream Cheese Upgrade: Swap half the cheddar with cream cheese for a richer, tangier profile.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a sweet-heat combo.

• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped roasted cashews or crushed graham crackers before freezing.

How to Store Your Cheese Ice Cream

Homemade ice cream requires just a bit of attention when it comes to storage.

• Use a shallow, airtight container (aluminum or plastic with a tight lid).

• Place a layer of parchment or wax paper directly on top of the ice cream before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

• Store in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. It’s best enjoyed within the first week for peak texture.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

While delicious on its own, this cheese ice cream can be elevated with these pairings:

• Toppings: Try it with shredded cheese, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of sea salt.

• Waffle cones or pandesal buns: Serve it Filipino-style, sandwiched in bread.

• Drink Pairing: Pair with iced coffee or a glass of sweet mango juice for a tropical combo.

• Dessert Plate: Serve with slices of warm bibingka (rice cake) or banana turon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is cheese ice cream salty?

Not overwhelmingly. The cheddar cheese provides a subtle savory balance to the sweetness, but the overall flavor is still primarily sweet and creamy.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Try using cream cheese, queso de bola, or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the cheese has a firm texture so it doesn’t melt completely into the base.

Do I need an ice cream machine?

No. This recipe is designed to work without an ice cream machine. The chilling and beating steps help achieve that soft, scoopable consistency.

Can I make it egg-free?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich. Omit the egg and increase the cream slightly, or use a teaspoon of cornstarch as a thickener.

How do I make it smoother?

Blend the chilled base before freezing for a more uniform consistency without cheese chunks.

Final Thoughts

Cheese ice cream might sound unconventional, but once you try a spoonful, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dessert in many parts of the world. With its smooth, creamy texture and salty-sweet flavor, it’s an unforgettable treat that’s both nostalgic and novel. Best of all, it’s easy to make at home — no ice cream maker needed!

If this recipe made your day a little cooler and your dessert game a little bolder, please share it with friends and family who love to explore new flavors. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more creative recipes, helpful cooking tips, and the latest trends in the kitchen.

Here’s to sweet, cheesy dreams — happy scooping!