Description
This playful homemade ice cream blends the tangy, creamy base of cheesecake with the nutty, savory crunch of everything bagel seasoning for a sweet-savory dessert that’s a true conversation starter. It’s easy to make, requires no fancy equipment, and is perfect for brunch, parties, or a unique late-night treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (or homemade: 1 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tsp poppy seeds, 1/2 tsp dried minced garlic, 1/2 tsp dried minced onion, 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free panko)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until completely smooth and lump-free (2-3 minutes by hand or 1 minute with a hand mixer).
- Add heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well combined and sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Pour the ice cream base into a clean container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. (Shortcut: Chill over an ice bath for 10-15 minutes if short on time.)
- For the topping: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add panko breadcrumbs and everything bagel seasoning. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Add brown sugar and stir for another minute until melted and toasty. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate to cool completely.
- Churn the chilled ice cream base in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes) until it reaches soft-serve consistency. For no-churn: Pour into a freezer-safe container and freeze, stirring vigorously with a fork every 45 minutes for 3 hours.
- Layer half the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, sprinkle with half the crunchy topping, add the remaining ice cream, and finish with the rest of the topping.
- Press parchment or wax paper directly onto the surface, seal with a lid, and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
- Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Serve in bowls or cones, and enjoy!
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or double the seeds. Full-fat cream cheese yields the creamiest texture. Toast the topping for best flavor and store separately to keep it crisp. No ice cream maker needed—just freeze and stir every 45 minutes for a creamy no-churn version. Press parchment on the surface to prevent freezer burn. Add a drizzle of honey or a pinch of flaky salt before serving for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/2 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 160
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: everything bagel ice cream, savory ice cream, homemade ice cream, no churn ice cream, brunch dessert, unique ice cream, cream cheese ice cream, crunchy topping, sweet and savory dessert