Ice Cream

Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Let’s talk about a dessert that’s been making people smile for generations—Tutti Frutti Ice Cream! The name itself, which comes from the Italian phrase “tutti frutti” (meaning “all fruits”), perfectly describes this sweet creation. It’s a fruity, creamy medley filled with candied and fresh fruit pieces.

Fun fact: Tutti Frutti dates back to 19th-century Europe when fruit-flavored icy desserts were trending. Over the years, it evolved into the creamy version we know and love today—a staple in both Italian gelato shops and classic American parlors. My take on this nostalgic treat? A modern, fruity twist with fresh peaches, strawberries, cherries, and bananas. It’s like summer in a scoop!

Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Quick Recipe Breakdown

Time Commitment:

  • Prep Time: 24 minutes
  • Total Time (freezing included): At least 4 hours

Servings:
You’ll get about 1 ½ quarts of ice cream, enough for 6–8 people. Want to adjust the recipe? No problem—just tweak the ingredient amounts while following the same steps.

Skill Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. Don’t worry if you’re new to making ice cream—this recipe is pretty forgiving.

What You’ll Need:

  • Blender: For a super smooth base.
  • Ice Cream Maker: Or use the no-churn method (we’ll cover that).
  • Freezer-Safe Container: A simple one with a good lid will work!

No ice cream maker? Don’t stress. You can pour the mixture into a shallow pan and stir it every 30 minutes for the first couple hours. Easy!

Instructions for Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base:

  • 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (ripe ones are best—you want that natural sweetness)
  • Juice of 1 lemon (this keeps the peaches from browning and adds a bright flavor)
  • ¾ cup sugar (adjust based on your fruit’s sweetness level)
  • ¾ cup whole milk (sub almond milk to make it dairy-free)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream (creamier = better here)
  • 2 ounces cream cheese (this adds a slight tang and keeps the texture smooth)
  • 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional, but it helps prevent ice crystals)
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum (adds depth—skip if you’re going alcohol-free)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

For the Fresh Fruit Mix:

  • 2 cups diced fruit—pick your favorites! I usually go with peaches, strawberries, cherries, and bananas.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Pro tip: Always use seasonal, ripe fruits for the best flavor. Frozen bananas are also great for creaminess!

Pro Tips for Perfect Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Ice Cream Base

Throw all the base ingredients—peaches, lemon juice, sugar, milk, cream, cream cheese, corn syrup, rum, and vanilla—into a blender. Blend until smooth. Taste it (yes, taste-test is required!) and adjust the sugar if needed. Once you’re happy with the mix, stick it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Why chill the base? It helps the flavors develop and ensures smooth freezing later.

2. Prep the Fruit Mix

While the base is chilling, dice your fruits into bite-sized chunks. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will bring out their natural juices and enhance the flavor.

Want a visual cue? The fruit pieces should look glossy, not mushy.

3. Churn It

Now for the fun part! Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and follow the instructions. Most machines take 20–25 minutes to get to a soft-serve consistency.

No machine? Just use a shallow container. Freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes for the first two hours to keep it smooth and airy.

4. Add the Fruits

Gently fold in your fruit mix with a spatula. Be careful not to squash them—you want those chunks to stay intact for a burst of flavor in every bite.

5. Freeze

Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover it tightly, and freeze for at least 4 hours. If you can wait overnight, even better!

Freezing hack: Place a piece of parchment paper on top before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Make It Yours: Customization Tips

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and a vegan cream cheese alternative.
  • Amp Up the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or swap the rum for orange liqueur.
  • Seasonal Twist: Try mangoes in the summer or apples in the fall.
  • Crunchy Add-Ons: Layer in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.

Serving Tips

  • How to Serve: Scoop into waffle cones or chilled bowls. Add a sprig of mint for fancy vibes.
  • Pair It With: Shortbread cookies or a light fruit salad. Yum.
  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to a month. Seriously, though—does ice cream ever last that long?

Need to soften it? Let it sit at room temp for 5 minutes before scooping.

Storage Tips Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Making Tutti Frutti Ice Cream at home is more than just a recipe—it’s a little trip down memory lane, with a fruity, creamy payoff. Whether you’re sharing it at a summer BBQ or sneaking a scoop for yourself on a quiet afternoon, this dessert is guaranteed to bring a smile.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get churning!

Print

Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Tutti Frutti Ice Cream is a vibrant, fruity treat that combines creamy richness with the natural sweetness of fresh and candied fruits. This recipe is a refreshing take on the classic, featuring peaches, strawberries, cherries, and bananas for a medley of flavors. Perfect for summer days or any time you crave a fruity dessert!

  • Author: Hamdan
  • Prep Time: 24 minutes
  • Total Time: Several hours (including freezing)
  • Yield: 1 ½ quarts (serves 6–8) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ice Cream Base:

  • 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional; enhances flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

For the Fresh Fruit Mix:

  • 2 cups diced fruit (peaches, strawberries, cherries, and frozen banana slices)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Ingredient Notes: Use ripe fruits for maximum sweetness. Frozen bananas add creaminess but can be omitted if desired. Substitute almond milk for whole milk for a dairy-free version.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a blender, combine peaches, lemon juice, sugar, milk, heavy cream, cream cheese, corn syrup (if using), rum (if using), vanilla extract, and almond extract. Blend until smooth. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to enhance flavors.
  2. Prepare the Fruit Mix: Dice the fresh fruits into small pieces. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let sit for about 10 minutes to release their natural juices.
  3. Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically about 20–25 minutes).
  4. Incorporate Fruits: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Gently fold in the fruit mixture using a spatula to evenly distribute without breaking up the fruit pieces.
  5. Freeze Until Firm: Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm enough to scoop.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve scoops in waffle cones or chilled bowls. Garnish with extra diced fruits or a sprig of mint for added elegance.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Chill all ingredients before blending for quicker freezing.
  • Cover the ice cream surface with parchment paper before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Storage & Reheating: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. Let sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping if too firm.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star