Washington

Rainier Cherry Ice Cream

Named for the iconic mountain, Rainier cherries are Washington's golden treasure! This Evergreen State creation features the delicate, sweet flavor of fresh Rainier cherries in a silky custard - capturing summer in the Pacific Northwest one scoop at a time.

35 min churn time 8 servings Easy Summer Treasure
Jump to Ingredients

Equipment Needed

🍦
Ice Cream Maker
🥣
Large Mixing Bowl
🍳
Heavy Saucepan
🥄
Whisk
🧊
Freezer Container
🍒
Cherry Pitter

Ingredients

For the Base:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup sugar
5 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Cherries:

2 cups Rainier cherries, pitted
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1
Pit Rainier cherries carefully to preserve their beautiful color. Halve them and toss with 2 tablespoons sugar and lemon juice. Macerate 30 minutes.
2
Puree half the cherries until smooth. Dice the remaining half into pieces. Reserve both.
3
In a heavy saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat until steaming.
4
Whisk egg yolks with salt until pale. Slowly temper with the hot cream mixture.
5
Return to saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until custard reaches 170-175 degrees F.
6
Strain custard, stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Add cherry puree. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
7
Churn in ice cream maker, about 25-30 minutes. Add diced cherries in last 5 minutes.
8
Transfer to container and freeze 4 hours. Let sit 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Rainier Cherry Ice Cream

Washington Gold

Rainier cherries were developed at Washington State University in 1952 and named for Mount Rainier.

Short Season

Rainier cherry season is only 6-8 weeks in June-July. Stock up and freeze for year-round treats!

Handle with Care

Rainiers bruise easily - their delicate golden-pink skin shows every mark. Pit gently!

Almond Secret

A touch of almond extract enhances the natural flavor of cherries - it's a classic pairing.

Premium Price

Rainiers are more expensive than Bing cherries but their unique sweet flavor is worth it!

Serving Idea

Top with fresh Rainier cherries and a drizzle of honey for an elegant summer dessert.