Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Dairy Queen Deals and Delicious Homemade Recipes

National Ice Cream Day is a holiday dedicated to celebrating one of the world’s most beloved treats: ice cream! Celebrated annually on the third Sunday of July, it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite flavors and explore new frozen delights. This year, make the most of National Ice Cream Day with Dairy Queen’s special deals and by trying your hand at some scrumptious homemade ice cream recipes. Let’s dive in!

Dairy Queen’s National Ice Cream Day Deals

Dairy Queen (DQ) often offers enticing deals to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. While specific promotions can vary each year, here are some common types of deals you might find:

* **BOGO Deals:** Buy one, get one free (BOGO) offers on Blizzard treats, cones, or other selected menu items are a popular way for DQ to attract customers on this special day.
* **Discounted Prices:** Look out for reduced prices on specific ice cream treats. You might find a dollar or two off your favorite Blizzard or a special price on a classic cone.
* **DQ App Exclusives:** The Dairy Queen app is your best bet for exclusive deals and notifications. Download the app and sign up for rewards to be the first to know about National Ice Cream Day promotions.
* **Free Cone Day Style Promotions:** Sometimes, DQ offers a free small cone, similar to their Free Cone Day promotion, but specifically for National Ice Cream Day.

**How to Stay Updated on DQ’s Deals:**

1. **Check the Dairy Queen Website:** Visit the official Dairy Queen website closer to National Ice Cream Day to see any announcements about special promotions.
2. **Download the DQ App:** The app is the most reliable source for exclusive deals and real-time notifications.
3. **Follow Dairy Queen on Social Media:** Keep an eye on DQ’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) for updates and announcements.
4. **Contact Your Local DQ:** Call your local Dairy Queen to inquire about any National Ice Cream Day deals they might be offering.

Homemade Ice Cream Recipes to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day

While taking advantage of Dairy Queen’s deals is a fantastic way to celebrate, why not also try making your own ice cream at home? Homemade ice cream is surprisingly easy to make, and you can customize it to your exact taste preferences. Here are a few delicious recipes to get you started:

1. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla ice cream is a timeless classic that serves as a perfect base for adding your favorite toppings or enjoying on its own. This recipe is simple and yields a creamy, delicious result.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Cream Mixture:** In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. If using a vanilla bean, add the scraped seeds and the pod to the mixture.
2. **Heat the Mixture:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer. Do not boil.
3. **Infuse Vanilla Flavor (if using vanilla bean):** Remove the saucepan from the heat. If using a vanilla bean, cover the saucepan and let the mixture steep for 30 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
4. **Strain the Mixture (if using vanilla bean):** After steeping, remove the vanilla bean pod. You can rinse and dry the pod to use for flavoring sugar or other desserts.
5. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the cream mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling period is crucial for a smooth, creamy texture.
6. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
7. **Harden the Ice Cream:** After churning, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Scoop and serve your homemade vanilla ice cream! Add your favorite toppings like chocolate sauce, sprinkles, fruit, or nuts.

2. Rich Chocolate Ice Cream

For chocolate lovers, this rich and decadent chocolate ice cream recipe is a dream come true. The combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate creates an intense chocolate flavor that’s simply irresistible.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled
* Pinch of salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk until the mixture is smooth and the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. **Heat the Mixture:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer. Do not boil.
4. **Incorporate Melted Chocolate:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the melted and cooled bittersweet chocolate and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
5. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the chocolate mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
6. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
7. **Harden the Ice Cream:** After churning, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Scoop and serve your homemade chocolate ice cream! Consider adding chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra chocolatey treat.

3. Strawberry Ice Cream

This fresh and fruity strawberry ice cream is perfect for a warm summer day. Using fresh strawberries gives it a vibrant flavor and a beautiful pink hue.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Strawberries:** In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, ¼ cup of the granulated sugar, and the lemon juice. Gently toss the mixture and let it sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the strawberries to macerate and release their juices.
2. **Puree the Strawberries:** Transfer the strawberry mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds. This step is optional but results in a smoother ice cream.
3. **Combine Cream and Milk:** In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar, and the salt.
4. **Heat the Mixture:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer. Do not boil.
5. **Combine Strawberry Puree and Cream Mixture:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the strawberry puree until everything is well combined.
6. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the strawberry mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
7. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
8. **Harden the Ice Cream:** After churning, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Scoop and serve your homemade strawberry ice cream! Garnish with fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint.

4. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream is a refreshing and classic flavor combination. This recipe uses mint extract for a strong mint flavor and mini chocolate chips for bursts of chocolate in every bite.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ½ teaspoon mint extract (adjust to taste)
* ½ cup mini chocolate chips
* Pinch of salt
* Green food coloring (optional, for color)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. **Heat the Mixture:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer. Do not boil.
3. **Add Mint Extract and Food Coloring:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the mint extract. Add a few drops of green food coloring if desired, stirring until you achieve your desired shade of green.
4. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the mint mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last few minutes of churning, add the mini chocolate chips.
6. **Harden the Ice Cream:** After churning, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Scoop and serve your homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream!

5. Coffee Ice Cream

For coffee enthusiasts, this coffee ice cream recipe is a delightful way to enjoy your favorite beverage in frozen form. The strong coffee flavor is balanced with the sweetness of the cream and sugar.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ cup finely ground coffee beans (use your favorite roast)
* Pinch of salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Infuse Coffee Flavor:** In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground coffee beans, and salt.
2. **Heat and Steep:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer. Do not boil. Remove from heat, cover and let steep for 1 hour to infuse the coffee flavor. The longer it steeps the stronger the flavor, but don’t let it go over 2 hours or the flavor may be bitter.
3. **Strain the Mixture:** Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove the coffee grounds. Discard the grounds. It might require some pressing to get most of the cream out.
4. **Add Vanilla:** Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the coffee-infused mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
6. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
7. **Harden the Ice Cream:** After churning, the ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Scoop and serve your homemade coffee ice cream! You can sprinkle some cocoa powder, chocolate covered coffee beans or even a shot of expresso on top.

Tips for Making Perfect Homemade Ice Cream

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your ice cream. Use fresh, high-quality dairy products and flavorings for the best results.
* **Chill Thoroughly:** Chilling the ice cream base for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture. This allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to cool down completely before churning.
* **Follow Ice Cream Maker Instructions:** Each ice cream maker has specific instructions. Follow them carefully to ensure optimal churning and freezing.
* **Don’t Overchurn:** Overchurning can result in a grainy texture. Churn until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
* **Harden Properly:** After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to harden to a scoopable consistency.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Try adding different extracts, fruits, nuts, chocolate, or spices to create your own unique ice cream creations.
* **Store Properly:** Store homemade ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Over time, the ice cream may develop ice crystals and lose its creamy texture.

Topping Ideas for Your Ice Cream

No ice cream is complete without delicious toppings! Here are some ideas to elevate your ice cream experience:

* **Classic Toppings:** Hot fudge sauce, caramel sauce, sprinkles, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, chopped nuts
* **Fruity Toppings:** Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), sliced bananas, chopped peaches, fruit compote
* **Chocolate Toppings:** Chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, chocolate chunks, crushed Oreos, brownie pieces
* **Sweet and Savory Toppings:** Sea salt, candied bacon, pretzels
* **Sauces and Syrups:** Peanut butter sauce, Nutella, maple syrup

Conclusion

National Ice Cream Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your love for ice cream. Whether you take advantage of Dairy Queen’s special deals or try making your own homemade ice cream, be sure to indulge in this delicious treat. With these recipes and tips, you can create unforgettable ice cream experiences that will delight your taste buds and bring joy to your celebration. Happy National Ice Cream Day!