Vanilla bourbon milkshake in a glass topped with Maraschino cherry

5 Fun and Delicious Alcohol Ice Cream Recipes to Make at Home

Why should cocktails have all the fun? With a pint of Breyers ice cream and a splash of your favorite spirit, you have everything you need to turn a classic treat into something unforgettable.

These creamy, flavorful alcohol-infused ice cream recipes are perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a well-earned moment of decadence. Whether you’re drawn to bright, fruity flavors, deep chocolate richness, or silky-smooth classics, these five recipes bring just the right balance of sophistication and fun. So grab a spoon (or a glass) and let’s get mixing.

Why Alcohol and Ice Cream Are the Perfect Pair

Blending alcohol with ice cream isn’t just a delicious indulgence—it’s a bit of kitchen magic. When you add alcohol to ice cream, it lowers the freezing point, creating a smoother, creamier texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, the right pairing can enhance the sweet, rich flavors of your favorite ice cream, turning a simple scoop into something truly special.

Whether you love velvety flavors or refreshing fruits, there’s the perfect alcohol ice cream pairing for any occasion:

Creamy classics: Vanilla and chocolate pair wonderfully with dark liquors like rum, whiskey, and bourbon.
Fruity favorites: Fruit ice creams and sorbets pair well with clear liquors like tequila and vodka.
Refreshing twists: Mint chocolate ice cream is a perfect match for a Mojito, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with red wine, and vanilla takes on a whole new depth with a splash of Crème de Menthe.

Remember that boozy ice cream desserts are meant to be savored, so enjoy responsibly and treat them as the occasional indulgence they are.

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—mixing up something delicious!

1. Vanilla Bourbon Milkshake

Looking for a creamy classic with a grown-up twist? Try a vanilla bourbon milkshake, the perfect blend of smooth Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream and a splash of bourbon. It’s a decadent treat that’s as sophisticated as it is delicious.

Get the recipe: Vanilla Bourbon Milkshake Recipe

Mojito ice cream shake in a glass surrounded by lime slices and limes

2. Creamy Mojito Shakes

Say hello to minty-fresh magic! All you need to do is blend some vanilla ice cream with refreshing mint and zesty lime for a tantalizing tropical treat. Trust us, you’ll want to sip all summer long.

Get the recipe: Creamy Mojito Shake Recipe

Piña colada ice cream sundae in a dessert glass topped with Maraschino cherry

3. Lactose-Free Piña Colada Sundae

This Lactose-Free Piña Colada Sundae is proof you don’t have to miss out on creamy, dreamy treats just because you’re avoiding lactose. With Breyers Lactose-Free Vanilla Ice Cream as the star, you get all the tropical flavor and indulgent texture of a classic piña colada—minus the lactose.

Get the recipe: Lactose-Free Piña Colada Sundae Recipe

Irish coffee ice cream in a tumbler glass topped with chocolate ice cream

4. Irish Coffee Ice Cream

This Irish Coffee Ice Cream brings together the comforting richness of chocolate ice cream with the bold flavors of coffee and Irish whiskey. It's the perfect treat for hosting friends or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Whether you're celebrating or unwinding, this indulgent dessert offers a delightful blend of warmth and sweetness that everyone will love.

Get the recipe: Irish Coffee Ice Cream Recipe

Strawberry daiquiri ice cream sandwiches on a wooden chopping board

5. Strawberry Daiquiri Ice Cream Sandwiches

Your favorite summer cocktail just got a sweet makeover! You can make Strawberry Daiquiri Ice Cream Sandwiches using Breyers Natural Strawberry Ice Cream and a rum-infused strawberry filling for a handheld dessert that’s fruity, fun, and fabulously boozy.

Get the recipe: Strawberry Daiquiri Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

How to Finesse Your Alcohol Ice Cream Desserts

Ready to try these delicious recipes? Before you begin, here are a few tips to perfect your alcohol ice cream creations:

Don’t overdo it. Too much alcohol will prevent the ice cream from freezing properly and can throw off the flavor.

Try it with other frozen treats. Sorbet can handle a bit more alcohol—up to ¼ cup per pint—since it’s dairy-free. Gelato can take 1-3 tablespoons per pint without compromising its smooth texture. Looking for a suggestion? Talenti's Belgian Chocolate Gelato is the perfect base for a rich, indulgent treat.

Add in sauces and swirls. If you're not in the mood to spike the entire batch, you can always infuse your sauces and swirls with a touch of alcohol—imagine a salted caramel swirl with a hint of bourbon.

Use flavored liquors. Flavored liquors like orange liqueur or amaretto add depth and complexity to your ice cream without overwhelming the sweetness.

Low-Alcohol Variations

If you're skipping the booze or just craving a lighter dessert, don’t worry—you can easily make all of these recipes without alcohol. You may notice a slightly denser, creamier texture, but the flavor will still be just as delicious. Discover more ice cream recipes with Breyers (think Mint Chocolate Mocktinis and Wacky Waikiki Shakes) here.

These alcohol-infused ice cream recipes offer a delicious twist on your favorite drinks, perfect for gatherings, casual get-togethers, or simply treating yourself.

So, why not grab your favorite pint of Breyers and have some fun experimenting in the kitchen?

And of course, these treats are for adults—enjoy responsibly.

FAQs

Can alcohol be added to any ice cream flavor?

You bet! Adding a splash of your favorite spirit can elevate any ice cream flavor. Whether you're mixing bourbon with our Homemade Vanilla or adding a hint of coffee liqueur to our Extra Creamy Chocolate, the possibilities are endless. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Does adding alcohol to ice cream change its texture?

Yes, alcohol can affect the texture of ice cream. Because alcohol freezes only at very low temperatures, it can make your ice cream softer and creamier. But be careful not to add too much, or you might end up with a slushy treat instead of a scoopable delight.

Can I make non-dairy alcohol-infused ice cream?

Absolutely. Our Non-Dairy flavors are perfect for creating delicious alcohol-infused treats. Try mixing our Non-dairy Cookies and Crème with vanilla-flavored vodka and non-dairy milk for the ultimate dairy-free boozy milkshake. Just like with regular ice cream, moderation is key to keeping that perfect texture.

How strong is alcohol ice cream?

Alcohol-infused ice cream typically has a lower alcohol content than a standard cocktail. It's more about the flavor than anything else. However, the strength can vary depending on how much alcohol you add. Always enjoy responsibly.

What’s the best way to store alcohol-infused ice cream desserts?

To keep your alcohol-infused ice cream at its best, store it in the coldest part of your freezer. Make sure it's in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain that creamy texture. And remember, because of the alcohol, it might stay a bit softer than your usual ice cream.