The Ultimate Black Raspberry Ice Cream: Healthy, Creamy & Simple

Black raspberry ice cream is a nostalgic summer treat made with a creamy custard base and rich berry flavor from fresh black raspberries. This homemade ice cream recipe is healthy, macro-friendly, and surprisingly easy to make, no blender required. Unlike typical store-bought options, it features a whole egg custard for a creamy texture and vibrant purple color, using fresh or wild black raspberries for a bold, fruit-based ice cream.

This low calorie dessert combines the charm of summer berry desserts with the nutrition of a healthy indulgence. Whether you’re using a Cuisinart ice cream maker or another churn method, the result is smooth, scoopable, and irresistibly delicious.

How to Make Black Raspberry Ice Cream at Home

Creating homemade black raspberry ice cream is easier than you think and it yields a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dessert that outshines store-bought versions. With just a few ingredients and a churned approach, this summer berry dessert becomes the perfect fusion of creamy texture and rich berry flavor.

Black Raspberry Ice Cream Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

• Author: Jake Hollander
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum) Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum) Churn Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: ~5 hours
• Yield: 6 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh or frozen black raspberries (wild preferred)
• 3/4 cup sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup light cream
• 2 large whole eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Mash & Strain the Berries:
   In a bowl, mash the black raspberries. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Set aside juice.
2. Make the Custard Base:
   Whisk eggs in a medium bowl. In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Heat until steaming but not boiling.
3. Temper the Eggs:
   Slowly pour warm milk mixture into eggs while whisking. Return everything to the saucepan and cook on low, stirring until it thickens slightly (about 170°F). Do not boil.
4. Cool & Combine:
   Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and mix in the black raspberry juice. Cool to room temp, then refrigerate 4+ hours.
5. Churn:
   Pour mixture into an ice cream maker (Cuisinart recommended) and churn 20–25 minutes or until soft-serve texture.
6. Freeze & Serve:
   Transfer to an airtight container. Freeze 4 hours or overnight for scoopable consistency.

Notes

• Use parchment paper on the surface to avoid freezer burn.
• Adjust sweetness depending on your berry batch.
• Frozen berries work well—just thaw and drain.

Gather Fresh Black Raspberries

Start with fresh black raspberries or wild black raspberries for the most vibrant purple ice cream. Their tart-sweet balance creates a fruit-based ice cream that bursts with natural flavor. If fresh is unavailable, you can use frozen black raspberries just thaw and drain excess liquid.

Prepare a Whole Egg Custard Base

The creamy custard base is key to the texture. Unlike no-churn shortcuts, this recipe uses a whole egg custard made by gently cooking eggs with milk and a touch of cream. This egg-based ice cream gains richness and body, making it both satisfying and macro-friendly.

Whisk eggs until smooth, then slowly add warm milk to temper. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, don’t let it boil. This creamy base will anchor your healthy ice cream while ensuring it’s both indulgent and low calorie.

No Blender Required – Mash & Strain

For the fruit, mash black raspberries with a fork or potato masher, no blender required. Strain through a fine sieve to remove seeds, leaving behind only the juicy essence that colors your ice cream purple and delivers that unmistakable black raspberry flavor.

Combine & Chill

Mix the strained berry juice into the cooled custard base. This step creates a unified mix of creamy custard and bold berry. Chill the mixture thoroughly (at least 4 hours or overnight) before churning. A well-chilled base leads to smoother, creamier churned ice cream.

Churn in a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker

Pour the chilled base into your Cuisinart ice cream maker or preferred machine. Churn according to the manufacturer’s directions until it reaches soft-serve consistency. The process enhances the creamy texture and locks in the flavor of this easy ice cream recipe.

Freeze for Scoopable Texture

Transfer your churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Let it freeze for at least 4–6 hours for that firm, scoopable finish. The result? A homemade ice cream low calorie enough for everyday treats, yet luxurious in taste and mouthfeel.

Tip: Serve with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of dark chocolate for a complete summer berry dessert experience.

And If you want to master temperature control during chilling, our ice water hack recipe shares a smart technique that speeds up cool-down time, ideal for getting your custard ready faster.

Why Black Raspberries Are Better Than Blackberries

When it comes to making black raspberry ice cream, the choice of berry makes all the difference. While blackberries are commonly found in markets, black raspberries offer a deeper, richer flavor and a stunning color that elevates any homemade ice cream. If you’re aiming for a fruit-based ice cream that’s healthy, creamy, and memorable, black raspberries are the berry of choice. (Healthline explains the differences between black raspberries and blackberries, which is helpful when choosing ingredients for a fresh, flavorful black raspberry ice cream.)

Botanical and Flavor Differences

The first key difference lies in their structure. Black raspberries are hollow in the center and have a more delicate texture. This makes them ideal for blending into the creamy custard base of black raspberry ice cream. Unlike blackberries, which have larger seeds and a firmer body, black raspberries break down smoothly, requiring no blender for preparation.

From a flavor perspective, black raspberries are more tart and intense. This results in a black raspberry ice cream with a rich berry flavor that is both sweet and slightly earthy perfect for those seeking a nostalgic summer treat with gourmet appeal.

Visual and Nutritional Contrasts

One of the standout features of black raspberry ice cream is its natural purple color. Black raspberries contain anthocyanins, antioxidants responsible for the bold hue. This gives your ice cream a vibrant visual appeal that’s as healthy as it is eye-catching. (According to WebMD, black raspberries are packed with antioxidants and unique compounds that may support overall health.)

Nutritionally, black raspberries are lower in sugar and higher in antioxidants than blackberries. That makes them an excellent choice for a macro-friendly and low calorie dessert, especially when paired with a homemade ice cream low calorie custard base.

And If you’re looking for more creamy, fruit-forward treats, check out our easy healthy cottage cheese ice cream recipe.

Ingredient Breakdown – Fruit-Based, Macro‑Friendly & Low Calorie

Crafting black raspberry ice cream that’s both indulgent and healthy starts with smart ingredient choices. By balancing flavor, nutrition, and texture, this fruit-based ice cream transforms into a low calorie dessert that fits into nearly any lifestyle including macro-friendly meal plans.

Whole Ingredients with Purpose

The base of black raspberry ice cream begins with fresh or wild black raspberries, known for their antioxidant-rich profile and deep color. Unlike artificial flavors, these berries provide the bold, rich berry flavor that defines fruit-based ice cream. Using them fresh preserves natural nutrients, but frozen black raspberries can also work in a pinch.

For creaminess without excess calories, a mixture of whole milk and light cream keeps black raspberry ice cream smooth while staying healthy. The addition of eggs specifically a whole egg custard helps thicken the mixture, yielding a velvety mouthfeel typical of classic egg-based ice cream.

Sugar Control and Macro Balance

To make your black raspberry ice cream macro-friendly, use just enough sugar to highlight the berries without overwhelming their tartness. You can also use natural sweeteners or reduced-calorie alternatives. Since this recipe focuses on fresh fruit and whole eggs, it already leans toward being a healthy, low calorie dessert.

Each serving of black raspberry ice cream delivers satisfying richness with fewer empty calories, making it ideal as a post-meal treat or a midday indulgence.

A Summer Treat You Can Feel Good About

Whether you’re tracking macros or simply looking for a guilt-free scoop, black raspberry ice cream offers the perfect solution. With its creamy texture, vibrant purple color, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a summer berry dessert that’s as beautiful as it is nourishing.

Equipment & Technique for Perfect Creamy Custard

Creating the creamy custard base is the heart of making smooth, scoopable black raspberry ice cream. It’s not just about the ingredients, it’s how you handle them. The right tools and techniques ensure that your homemade ice cream delivers that velvety texture and rich berry flavor every time.

The Role of Whole Egg Custard

The signature texture of black raspberry ice cream comes from its custard base, made with whole eggs. This whole egg custard not only enhances creaminess but also supports structure, making it ideal for churned ice cream. Unlike recipes that use only egg yolks or skip eggs altogether, this method offers a healthier, protein-rich option with no compromise on indulgence.

To start, whisk the eggs in a bowl until frothy. Gently heat your milk and cream mixture, then slowly temper the eggs to avoid curdling. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the heat and stir until it thickens just enough to coat a spoon. This forms the foundation of your black raspberry ice cream.

Temperature Control & Chilling

One of the most common mistakes in making black raspberry ice cream is rushing the custard. Overheating can scramble the eggs, while insufficient chilling leads to icy textures. Always cool your custard thoroughly ideally overnight before churning. This step ensures your ice cream churns into a creamy, lump-free finish.

Churning with the Right Equipment

Use a Cuisinart ice cream maker or a similar model for best results. A slow, consistent churn allows the black raspberry ice cream to develop air for a light texture while freezing evenly. This churned method enhances smoothness and makes your ice cream feel luxurious on the tongue.

Pro Tip: No blender required. Just a fine mesh strainer and a saucepan give you everything needed for this easy ice cream recipe.

Summer Berry Dessert Nostalgia & Serving Ideas

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about black raspberry ice cream. It’s the kind of treat that brings back warm memories of childhood summers, roadside ice cream stands, and berry-stained fingers after picking wild black raspberries. This homemade version blends old-school comfort with modern, health-conscious twists.

A Nostalgic Summer Treat

Few desserts evoke summer like black raspberry ice cream. With its deep purple hue and rich berry flavor, this fruit-based ice cream reminds many of simpler days. Unlike artificial versions, this healthy recipe uses fresh or wild black raspberries and a creamy custard base for a more authentic experience.

Even the aroma is a throwback, the moment your black raspberry ice cream begins to churn, you’re transported to long summer evenings and front porch conversations. It’s no wonder this purple ice cream remains a nostalgic summer treat for so many.

Smart Serving Ideas for Flavor & Balance

Serve black raspberry ice cream on its own for a macro-friendly indulgence, or pair it with fresh fruit for added nutrition. A dollop alongside grilled peaches or a few dark chocolate shavings takes this low calorie dessert to gourmet levels. You can also sandwich it between two oatmeal cookies for a fun, protein-rich snack.

For presentation, scoop black raspberry ice cream into vintage-style dessert bowls or mason jars. Garnish with a few whole black raspberries or mint sprigs for visual appeal and a burst of freshness.

Portion Control with a Purpose

Because this homemade ice cream is made with real fruit and a whole egg custard, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. A small scoop delivers big flavor, making it ideal for those seeking a healthy dessert that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Looking for a feel-good drink to match? Explore Viva Lyze on Pinterest for beautifully curated, health-boosting refreshments to pair with your dessert.

FAQs About Black Raspberry Ice Cream

Storage, Leftovers & Freezer Life

After making a fresh batch of black raspberry ice cream, proper storage is key to preserving its creamy texture and rich berry flavor. With a few simple techniques, you can keep your homemade ice cream low calorie and delicious for weeks.

Best Storage Containers

To keep your black raspberry ice cream fresh and scoopable, use an airtight, shallow container. This allows for even freezing and minimizes the formation of ice crystals. Press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to protect the creamy custard base from freezer burn.

Avoid deep or narrow containers, which take longer to freeze and can lead to uneven texture in your healthy, churned ice cream.

Ideal Freezer Timeframes

For best results, enjoy black raspberry ice cream within 10–14 days. It technically keeps for up to three weeks, but after the first week, fruit-based ice cream may begin to lose some of its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

If you notice excess ice crystals or a change in color, it’s a sign the ice cream is nearing the end of its prime. Always check for freshness before serving, especially with a custard base.

Serving After Freezing

Because homemade black raspberry ice cream lacks the stabilizers found in commercial brands, it may freeze harder. To serve, let the container sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This softens the texture and revives the creamy consistency you expect from egg-based ice cream.

Pro tip: Keep portions small and refreeze only what’s untouched. This keeps your macro-friendly dessert healthier and reduces waste.

Variations & Substitutes

Whether you’re customizing for dietary needs or just curious about alternatives, black raspberry ice cream is flexible enough to handle a range of substitutions. You can tweak this homemade recipe while still enjoying a healthy, fruit-based dessert with rich berry flavor and creamy texture.

Using Frozen Black Raspberries

Can’t find fresh? No problem. You can still make black raspberry ice cream using frozen black raspberries. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen fruit still delivers the same purple ice cream color and bright, tangy flavor. The no blender required approach still works perfectly with soft, thawed berries.

Swapping the Berries

If black raspberries are unavailable, a mix of blackberries and red raspberries makes a worthy substitute. While it won’t produce the exact same rich berry flavor, it still results in a satisfying, homemade ice cream low calorie option. Keep in mind that blackberries may require extra straining due to their larger seeds.

This is a great way to introduce variety into your ice cream making without losing the essence of a fresh fruit ice cream.

Dairy-Free & Light Variations

For a lower-fat or dairy-free version of black raspberry ice cream, use coconut milk or a blend of almond milk and coconut cream. You’ll want to retain some fat for the creamy custard base feel, especially if you’re not using eggs.

Even egg-free versions can be successful using cornstarch as a thickener. However, for the creamiest results and authentic churned ice cream experience, the whole egg custard remains ideal.

If you’re interested in healthy drink ideas to pair with your dessert, take a look at our mango coconut water smoothie recipe for a refreshing complement.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Making Black Raspberry Ice Cream at Home

Black raspberry ice cream brings together nostalgia, nutrition, and flavor in every creamy scoop. By using fresh or wild black raspberries, a whole egg custard base, and a churned technique, you create a dessert that’s not only beautiful but also healthy, macro-friendly, and satisfying.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a summer afternoon, serving it to guests, or batch prepping for low calorie desserts all week long, black raspberry ice cream never disappoints. Its vibrant purple color, rich berry flavor, and creamy texture make it the ultimate fruit-based ice cream and a stand-out among healthy treats.

Love homemade, nutritious desserts? You’ll also enjoy our healthy homemade Pinkberry frozen yogurt recipe.

Plus, this homemade ice cream low calorie recipe doesn’t require fancy equipment. It’s an easy ice cream recipe that works in most kitchens, even if you have no blender. Just follow the steps, chill with care, and let your Cuisinart ice cream maker (or any churner) do the magic.

If you’re looking for more simple yet feel-good recipes, follow Viva Lyze on Facebook for daily wellness ideas, health-forward dishes, and cooking inspiration from real kitchens. You’ll also love our beautifully curated dessert boards on Viva Lyze on Pinterest, where you’ll discover new ways to feel good one spoonful at a time.

Try it once, and black raspberry ice cream just might become your signature summer berry dessert healthy, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious.