What Makes Bubble Gum Ice Cream So Special?
There’s something magical about bubble gum ice cream. The first time I tried it, I was at a local fair with my kids. They were running around, sticky-faced and happy, while I indulged in a scoop of this whimsical treat. It was sweet, creamy, and speckled with tiny bits of bubble gum—just like childhood in a cone. That day, I decided to recreate it at home. After several attempts, I nailed the recipe. Now, it’s a family favorite that never fails to bring smiles.
A Little History Behind Bubble Gum Ice Cream
Bubble gum-flavored treats have been around for decades, but bubble gum ice cream became popular in the 1980s when brands like Breyers and Blue Bell started selling it. Back then, you could find bubble gum ice cream Walmart shelves stocked with colorful tubs. Today, you might spot it as bubble gum ice cream blue bell or even at Kroger, though it’s not as common. Some versions, like bubble gum ice cream bars, are still beloved by nostalgic fans. But why settle for store-bought when you can make your own?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade version is creamy, vibrant, and bursting with nostalgia. It’s perfect for anyone who loves playful desserts. Plus, you get to control what goes into it—no artificial flavors if you don’t want them! Whether you’re craving vegan bubble gum ice cream or a classic dairy-based treat, this recipe has options for everyone. And yes, it tastes just like those pink sticks of gum we all chewed as kids.
Perfect Occasions to Make Bubble Gum Ice Cream
This dessert is ideal for birthday parties, summer barbecues, or just because. Imagine serving scoops of bubble gum ice cream in colorful cones at a kiddo’s party. Or picture yourself enjoying a bowl while lounging on the porch after dinner. It’s also fun to pair with movie nights or game days. Honestly, any excuse to whip up this whimsical treat is a good one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon bubble gum flavoring (or substitute almond extract)
- Food coloring (pink or blue, optional for bubble gum ice cream blue)
- 1/2 cup small pieces of bubble gum (edible or decorative)
Substitution Options
- For a vegan twist, swap the cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk.
- If you can’t find bubble gum flavoring, use a splash of almond extract—it mimics the taste surprisingly well.
- Skip the food coloring if you prefer a more natural look.
How to Make Bubble Gum Ice Cream
Step 1: Mix Your Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the vanilla extract and bubble gum flavoring, stirring gently to blend. If you’re aiming for that iconic bubble gum ice cream blue hue, add a few drops of blue food coloring now. Watch as the mixture transforms into a dreamy pastel shade—it’s almost too pretty to eat!
Pro tip: Taste the base before freezing. Adjust the sweetness or flavoring to suit your preferences.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least two hours. Chilling ensures your ice cream will freeze evenly later. While waiting, prep your edible bubble gum pieces. Cut them into tiny bits so they’re safe to bite into without being overwhelming.
Step 3: Freeze and Fold
Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in the chopped bubble gum pieces. Be gentle—you don’t want to deflate the airy texture. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and let it harden for another 2-3 hours.
Chef’s tip: For extra flair, sprinkle a few more gum pieces on top before freezing.
Timing Breakdown
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours
- Freezing time: 2-3 hours
- Total time: About 5 hours
Chef’s Secret
To mimic the texture of bubble gum ice cream Baskin Robbins, try adding a handful of rainbow sprinkles along with the gum pieces. It adds a festive touch and enhances the fun factor.
An Interesting Tidbit
Did you know that ice cream with bubble gum at the bottom was once a novelty? Back in the day, some shops would layer their scoops with actual gum underneath. While it sounds fun, most modern recipes stick to edible gum pieces for safety reasons.
Necessary Equipment
- Ice cream maker
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap
- Freezer-safe container
Storage Tips
Store your bubble gum ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Layer parchment paper between scoops if you plan to keep it for longer than a week. Keep it in the coldest part of your freezer for optimal freshness.
When reheating leftovers, let the container sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. This makes it easier to serve without losing its creamy texture.
For best results, consume within two weeks. Trust me; it won’t last that long anyway!
Tips and Advice
- Use high-quality ingredients for the richest flavor.
- Don’t overmix the gum pieces—they should be evenly distributed but not overpowering.
- Experiment with different colors and flavors to personalize your creation.
Presentation Ideas
- Serve in waffle cones topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.
- Create sundaes with hot fudge, crushed cookies, and maraschino cherries.
- Layer scoops in clear glasses for a retro soda-shop vibe.
Healthier Alternatives
Here are six ways to lighten up your bubble gum ice cream:
- Vegan Version: Use coconut cream and maple syrup instead of dairy and refined sugar.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit or stevia.
- Fruit-Infused Twist: Blend in mashed strawberries for natural sweetness.
- Yogurt Base: Swap half the cream for Greek yogurt for added protein.
- No-Churn Recipe: Skip the ice cream maker and whip the cream by hand.
- Gluten-Free Treat: Ensure all added mix-ins are certified gluten-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Skipping the Chilling Step
Rushing through the chilling process can ruin your ice cream’s texture. Without proper cooling, the mixture won’t freeze evenly, resulting in icy crystals. Always chill for at least two hours to ensure smooth results.
Mistake 2: Overloading with Gum Pieces
Too many gum chunks can make the ice cream hard to scoop and overpower the flavor. Stick to about 1/2 cup total for balanced bites.
Mistake 3: Using Non-Edible Gum
Some people mistakenly toss regular chewing gum into their batches. Remember, only edible or decorative gum should be used. Regular gum isn’t meant to be swallowed and can ruin the experience.
FAQs About Bubble Gum Ice Cream
Does Bubble Gum Ice Cream Still Exist?
Absolutely! While it may not be as widespread as it once was, you can still find specialty versions from brands like Blue Bell or Baskin Robbins. Making it at home is a great way to enjoy this nostalgic treat anytime.
What Is Bubble Gum Ice Cream Made Of?
It typically includes cream, milk, sugar, flavoring, and edible gum pieces. The flavoring mimics the taste of classic bubble gum, while the gum adds a playful crunch.
Does Bubble Gum Ice Cream Have Real Gum In It?
No, it doesn’t contain real chewing gum. Instead, it uses edible gum pieces designed specifically for baking and cooking.
What Does Bubble Gum Ice Cream Taste Like?
It tastes sweet and fruity, reminiscent of the pink bubble gum sticks we all loved as kids. The flavor is light and refreshing, making it perfect for summertime treats.
Where Can I Buy Bubble Gum Ice Cream?
You might find it at stores like Kroger, Walmart, or specialty ice cream shops. Brands like Breyers and Blue Bell occasionally carry it, but availability varies by region.
Can I Make Vegan Bubble Gum Ice Cream?
Yes! Simply replace the dairy with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and almond milk. Opt for a vegan-friendly sweetener like agave nectar if needed.
Is Bubble Gum Ice Cream Safe for Kids?
As long as it contains edible gum pieces, it’s perfectly safe. Just remind little ones to chew carefully to avoid choking hazards.
How Long Does Homemade Ice Cream Last?
Homemade ice cream stays fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly in the freezer. Beyond that, the quality may decline slightly.
Can I Use Natural Food Coloring?
Of course! Beet juice or spirulina powder works beautifully for pink or blue hues without artificial additives.
What Flavors Pair Well With Bubble Gum?
Fruity flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or citrus complement the sweet, playful notes of bubble gum beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own bubble gum ice cream is a delightful adventure. From its vibrant colors to its nostalgic flavor, this whimsical dessert is sure to charm both kids and adults alike. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with healthier twists, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. So grab your whisk, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Bubble Gum Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the vanilla extract and bubble gum flavoring, stirring gently to blend. Add food coloring if desired.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least two hours.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in the chopped bubble gum pieces gently.
- Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and let it harden for another 2-3 hours.