Simple 3 Ingredient Carnivore Ice Cream
Description
This ultra-simple Carnivore Ice Cream is rich, creamy, and made with only animal-based ingredients. It’s perfect for anyone following a carnivore or animal-based diet who still wants a satisfying frozen treat.
Unlike traditional ice cream, this version contains no sugar, no plant ingredients, and no additives—just wholesome dairy and egg yolks for natural creaminess and structure.
The texture is smooth and custard-like, with a clean, mildly sweet flavor from the cream itself.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
3 large egg yolks
1–2 tbsp powdered erythritol (optional, for sweetness — omit for strict carnivore)
That’s it!
👩🍳 Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Heat the Cream
Pour heavy cream into a saucepan.
Heat over medium-low until warm and slightly steaming (do not boil).
🔹 Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
Slowly add a few spoonfuls of warm cream into the yolks while whisking.
Gradually pour yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
🔹 Step 3: Thicken
Cook on low heat, stirring constantly.
When mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (170–175°F / 77–80°C), remove from heat.
🔹 Step 4: Chill
Let cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate 2–4 hours (or overnight).
🔹 Step 5: Freeze
Ice Cream Maker Method
Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 15–20 minutes).
No Machine Method
Pour into a freezer-safe container.
Freeze 3–4 hours.
Stir every 30–45 minutes during the first 2 hours to reduce ice crystals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slightly softened (let sit 5–10 minutes before scooping).
Top with crispy bacon crumbles (for a savory twist).
Pair with a carnivore-friendly coffee (heavy cream + espresso).
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for contrast.
Variations
🧈 Brown Butter Version
Brown 2 tbsp butter and mix into the cream before heating for a nutty flavor.
🥛 Extra Rich Version
Replace ½ cup cream with mascarpone or cream cheese.
🍳 Egg-Free Version
Use:
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup softened cream cheese
Blend and freeze (texture will be denser).
🧂 Savory Version
Add:
Pinch of salt
Tiny dash beef gelatin for firmer texture
❓ Related Questions
Is this truly carnivore?
Yes, if you omit erythritol. Some carnivore followers allow small amounts of dairy-based sweeteners, others prefer strict animal-only.
Why use egg yolks?
They act as a natural emulsifier, creating a smooth texture without gums or stabilizers.
Can I use whole eggs?
Not recommended — egg whites can make the texture icy and less creamy.
Why is my ice cream hard?
No sugar means it freezes firmer. Let it soften at room temperature before scooping.
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving — without sweetener)
Calories: ~320
Fat: 33g
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 2g (naturally occurring lactose)
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Values are estimates and vary by brand.
💭 Final Thoughts
This 3-Ingredient Carnivore Ice Cream proves you don’t need sugar or additives to enjoy a creamy frozen dessert. It’s rich, deeply satisfying, and perfectly aligned with a high-fat, animal-based lifestyle.
It may freeze harder than regular ice cream, but the flavor and simplicity make it worth it.