If you’re looking for a show-stopping fall dessert, you’ll love learning how to make apple pie ice cream at home. This easy homemade apple pie ice cream recipe brings together all the cozy flavors of classic apple pie in a creamy, frozen treat that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or a sweet weeknight indulgence.
There’s something magical about the combination of spiced apples, cinnamon, and creamy homemade ice cream — especially as summer fades into fall. This apple pie ice cream recipe is the best way to enjoy the taste of apple pie in a scoopable, refreshing dessert. If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the cozy flavors of classic apple pie in a scoopable, frozen treat, you’re in for a real delight. This easy Apple Pie Ice Cream is everything you love about the classic dessert, but with a cool and creamy twist.
Truth be told, there’s no big family story behind this recipe. My mom and I actually made it to practice my food photography, and it turned out to be one of the best homemade ice creams we’ve ever had. It’s unique, nostalgic, and the perfect fall dessert — especially for late summer or early fall — when apples are at their best and you’re craving a sweet transition from hot days to crisp evenings. This is a great way to use up apples from your local orchard or farmer’s market. Plus, I haven’t seen any ice cream company selling this flavor, so you’ll be making something truly special at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the Flavors of Apple Pie: Tart caramelized apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy graham crackers in every bite of this homemade apple pie ice cream.
- Ultra Creamy: Thanks to a blend of whole milk, half-and-half, and whipping cream, this is a rich and creamy ice cream.
- Perfect for Late Summer & Fall: The ideal way to celebrate apple season and enjoy a unique fall dessert.
- Unique: Not something you’ll find in the freezer aisle — this is a unique ice cream flavor.
- Fun for Foodies: A great recipe for impressing your guests, but also a fantastic dessert for Thanksgiving or autumn gatherings.
Did you know …?
While apple pie is an American classic, apple pie ice cream is a rare find — even among artisan ice cream shops. Most commercial brands stick to basics like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry, and even creative flavors rarely capture the true pie experience. Homemade apple pie ice cream brings together everything you love about apple pie: spiced, caramelized apples, rich vanilla ice cream, and the crunch of cinnamon graham crackers. If you’ve ever wondered how to make apple pie ice cream, this recipe will guide you step by step.
⚖️ Comparisons
Compared to regular apple ice cream or apple sorbet, this version is richer, creamier, and packed with the deep, caramel notes of homemade pie filling. The addition of cinnamon graham crackers mimics the crust, making every spoonful taste like a bite of real apple pie à la mode. This easy apple pie ice cream is the best apple dessert if you want something cold and refreshing with all the flavors of a classic pie.
Homemade vs. Storebought
A quick search shows that apple pie ice cream is almost impossible to find in stores. There may be a few seasonal offerings from small-batch creameries, but you won’t find it from any major brand. That makes this recipe even more special — you get to enjoy a flavor that’s truly homemade and unique! Homemade ice cream is also free from preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a healthier treat for your family.
📢 Fun Facts
- Apple pie is often called “America’s favorite dessert,” but apple pie ice cream is still a hidden gem!
- The “a la mode” tradition — serving pie with ice cream — started in the late 1800s in New York.
- Fuji apples are among the sweetest varieties, making them a top pick for desserts and apple ice cream recipes.
- Graham crackers were originally invented as a health food in the 19th century!
- Cinnamon is one of the oldest known spices and pairs perfectly with apples for both flavor and aroma.
- Apples are harvested in late summer and early fall, making this ice cream a seasonal superstar.
- Adding caramelized fruit to ice cream not only boosts flavor but also keeps the fruit from freezing rock-hard.
- Homemade ice cream is naturally free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
- This recipe is a great way to use up apples that are a bit past their prime for eating raw.
- You can freeze this ice cream in individual portions for the ultimate grab-and-go dessert!
💡Tips & Tricks and Variations
- ✅ Apple Choice: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangy bite, or go sweeter with Fuji or Honeycrisp. For the best apple pie ice cream, mix different apple varieties for a complex flavor.
- ✅ Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
- ✅ Swap the Graham Crackers: Use shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers for a different crust flavor.
- ✅ Caramel Swirl: Drizzle in some caramel sauce for an even more decadent treat.
- ✅ No Ice Cream Maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze, and stir every 30–45 minutes until creamy. This is an easy no-churn apple pie ice cream option.
🥜 Substitutions & Allergy Info
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk for the dairy, and use a dairy-free butter for sautéing apples.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free (just check your graham crackers).
- Egg-Free: No eggs needed!
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the apple mixture or use a sugar substitute for a healthier ice cream.
Ingredient Spotlight
- Whole Milk & Cream: The secret to a rich, scoopable texture in homemade ice cream recipes.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and classic apple pie flavor.
- Graham Crackers: Provide the “crust” crunch in every bite—just like real apple pie.
- Apples: Use your favorite — see the chart above for the sweetest varieties!
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor and gives that classic ice cream taste.
How to Make Apple Pie Ice Cream
- Prepare the Apples:
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. - Caramelize the Apples:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, 3 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are golden, soft, and caramelized (about 8–10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely. Caramelizing apples brings out the natural sweetness and creates the best apple pie flavor for your ice cream.
- Crush the Graham Crackers:
Place the graham crackers in a ziplock bag and break them into small chunks — not crumbs. Set aside. - Mix the Ice Cream Base:
In a large bowl or the base of your ice cream maker, combine the whole milk, 1 1/4 cups sugar, salt, half and half, vanilla extract, whipping cream, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Stir or whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This creamy base is the secret to rich, homemade apple ice cream.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20–25 minutes, until thick and creamy.
- Add the Mix-Ins:
Once the ice cream has thickened, gently fold in the cooled caramelized apples and crushed graham crackers. - Freeze Until Firm:
Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy the taste of homemade apple pie ice cream in every bite!
🫙Storage and Freezing
- Freeze: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Homemade ice cream stays freshest in the first week.
- Soften Before Scooping: Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture. This keeps your apple pie ice cream soft and scoopable.
FAQ about Apple Pie Ice Cream
- Q: Can I use any type of apple?
Yes! Use your favorite, but Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji/Honeycrisp for sweetness work best. For the best homemade apple pie ice cream, mix apple varieties for a balanced flavor. - Q: Do I need an ice cream maker?
It helps for texture, but you can freeze the mixture in a dish and stir every 30–45 minutes until creamy. No-churn apple pie ice cream is easy with this method. - Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk, and dairy-free butter for the apples. This is a great vegan apple ice cream option. - Q: How long does homemade ice cream last?
Up to 2 weeks in the freezer, though it’s best within the first week for texture. - Q: Can I add caramel sauce?
Yes! Swirl in caramel after churning for an extra decadent treat. Caramel apple pie ice cream is always a hit. - Q: Why do my apples freeze hard?
Make sure they’re fully caramelized and cooled before adding. Small pieces work best. - Q: Can I use different cookies instead of graham crackers?
Sure! Try vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread for a different twist. - Q: Is this flavor available in stores?
Major brands don’t offer apple pie ice cream — making it at home is the best way to enjoy it! This is a unique ice cream flavor you’ll want to make again and again. - Q: Can I make it ahead for a party?
Definitely! Make a day or two ahead and freeze until ready to serve.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ice cream too hard: Let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping or add a tablespoon of vodka to the base to help keep it scoopable.
- Apples sink to the bottom: Cool apples completely and fold them in gently at the very end.
- Ice cream base icy, not creamy: Make sure your base is well-chilled before churning and don’t skimp on the cream.
Related Recipes
➡️ Check out my other homemade dessert recipes for more delicious ideas!
Wrapping Up
Now you know how to make apple pie ice cream – an easy homemade fall dessert that’s creamy, spiced, and full of homemade goodness. This recipe is perfect for those late summer and early fall days, and it’s a flavor you won’t find in stores. You’ll be the star of any gathering or dessert table. Big thanks to my mom for encouraging me to experiment in the kitchen and practice my food photography — this apple pie ice cream recipe turned out to be a true keeper in our house, and I hope it will be in yours too!
🍎 Don’t forget to share your apple pie ice cream creations with me on Instagram or in the comments below!
🍎 Don’t forget to share your apple pie ice cream creations with me on Instagram or in the comments below!
How to Make Apple Pie Ice Cream – Easy Homemade Fall Dessert
This apple pie ice cream combines caramelized apples, cinnamon, and graham crackers for a scoop that tastes just like your favorite pie.
Ingredients
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