Homemade Peach Jam Ice Cream Sodas: A D.C. Inspired, Refreshing Summer Treat

My recent journey to Washington D.C. transformed into an unexpected culinary adventure, specifically an indulgent self-curated ice cream crawl. This delightful exploration led me to some of the city’s most exquisite frozen treats, sparking a particular inspiration that I simply had to bring back to my own kitchen. The result? These incredible Peach Jam Ice Cream Sodas, a recipe born from fond memories and a refrigerator brimming with a generous haul of fresh, ripe peaches. I wanted to capture the essence of those D.C. discoveries, giving a classic treat a vibrant, peachy spin that screams summer joy.

Understanding the Classic: What Exactly is an Ice Cream Soda?

An Ice Cream Soda, at its heart, is a delightful concoction of ice cream, soda water, and a flavorful syrup. This iconic beverage harks back to a golden era when local drugstores doubled as bustling social hubs, and the soda jerk was nothing short of a local celebrity, expertly crafting these fizzy, creamy delights. These nostalgic drinks were a staple of American culture, offering a simple yet profoundly satisfying treat to patrons of all ages. Today, I’m thrilled to share my updated version of this beloved classic, elevating it with homemade elements and a touch of modern flair.

Mark your calendars! June 20th is officially “National Ice Cream Soda Day.” As someone who loves to find reasons to celebrate life’s simple pleasures, this day is definitely becoming a cherished annual tradition in my household. While there are countless wonderful things to commemorate throughout the year, I might just reserve this particular celebration for its designated day, making it an extra special yearly indulgence.

My D.C. Inspiration: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

During my memorable D.C. “Ice Cream Crawl,” one particular creamery stood out above the rest: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. This was my very first experience with Jeni’s, a brand that boasts a truly cult-like following, and after just one taste, I completely understood why. Every scoop was a revelation, from the incredibly smooth texture to the perfectly balanced and innovative flavors. And don’t even get me started on their waffle cones – they are in a league of their own, providing the ideal crunchy complement to the rich ice cream.

I distinctly remember trying two exceptional flavors: the whimsical Sun Popped Corn and the comforting Peanut Butter with Strawberry Jelly. Both were masterpieces of flavor and texture, showcasing an unparalleled creaminess and a remarkable harmony of ingredients that I rarely encounter. The smoothness was simply divine, leaving a lasting impression that continued to inspire long after the last bite.

For these Peach Jam Ice Cream Sodas, I drew inspiration from Jeni’s innovative spirit, specifically adapting a concept from her “Cream Biscuits with Peach Jam Ice Cream.” Since I can’t readily purchase Jeni’s exquisite ice cream locally, I decided to go the extra mile and create my own version. This meant embarking on the delightful journey of making both the peach jam and the creamy buttermilk ice cream base entirely from scratch. This homemade approach not only ensures the freshest flavors but also allows me to truly personalize this delicious recipe.

Key Ingredients for Your Homemade Peach Jam Ice Cream Soda

Crafting this ultimate homemade peach jam ice cream soda requires a few essential components, all designed to deliver a burst of fresh, peachy flavor and a luxuriously creamy texture. The beauty of making it yourself is controlling the quality and intensity of each ingredient, ensuring a truly splendid result. Here’s what you’ll need for each stage:

For the Buttermilk Ice Cream Base:

• Cream Cheese: Provides an unparalleled smoothness and a slight tang, characteristic of Jeni’s style.
• Heavy Cream: The foundation for rich, creamy ice cream.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a stabilizer, preventing ice crystals and ensuring a silky texture.
• Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Sugar: Sweetens the ice cream to perfection.
• Corn Syrup: Contributes to a smooth consistency and helps prevent crystallization.
• Buttermilk: Adds a unique, subtle tang and depth of flavor that complements the peaches beautifully.

For the Fresh Peach Jam:

• Ripe Peaches: The star of the show! Choose fragrant, ripe peaches for the best flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the jam.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the peach flavor and aids in the gelling process.

For Assembling Your Ultimate Ice Cream Sodas:

• Homemade Peach Jam Ice Cream: The crown jewel of this recipe.
• Georgia Peach Coke (or similar artisanal peach soda): A flavorful fizzy component that enhances the peach theme.
• Fresh Peach Slices: For garnish and an extra touch of fresh fruit.

Crafting Perfection: Making the Peach Jam and Buttermilk Ice Cream

While the idea of making both jam and ice cream from scratch might seem daunting, I promise the process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. The fresh, vibrant flavors you achieve will be well worth the effort, transforming a simple dessert into an extraordinary culinary experience. Let’s break down each step:

Peach Jam Ingredients:

2 large Peaches
¾ C Sugar
Juice of ½ Lemon

Buttermilk Ice Cream Ingredients:

6 oz Cream Cheese, room temp
2 ½ C Heavy Cream
4 T Cornstarch
½ t Kosher Salt
1 ½ C Sugar
4 T Light Corn Syrup
4 C Buttermilk
½ C Peach Jam, homemade or store-bought (if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought jam can work, but homemade is truly superior!)

The Jam: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Peaches for Blanching: To begin your homemade peach jam, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. While the water heats, carefully score a small ‘X’ in the bottom of each peach. Prepare a large bowl filled with ice and water; this will be your ice bath.
2. Blanch the Peaches: Gently lower the peaches into the boiling water. Blanch them just until the skin around the ‘X’ starts to loosen and peel back, typically between 5 to 15 seconds, depending on the ripeness. Immediately transfer the blanched peaches to the prepared ice bath to stop the cooking process and cool them down rapidly. Once cooled, drain them thoroughly.
3. Peel and Pit the Peaches: The blanched skin should now slide off with remarkable ease. Peel off all the skin. Slice each peach in half from top to bottom and twist gently to separate the fruit from the pit. Discard the pits.
4. Puree the Peaches: Place the peeled and pitted peach halves into a food processor or blender. Process until you achieve a smooth puree.
5. Cook the Jam: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of the fresh peach puree, the measured sugar, and the lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously to ensure the sugar completely dissolves. Allow it to boil for approximately 8 minutes, or until the jam visibly thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the peach jam cool completely to room temperature. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Your delicious homemade peach jam will keep for up to 2 weeks.

The Buttermilk Ice Cream: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of the heavy cream with the cornstarch, whisking until smooth to create a slurry. This ensures the cornstarch dissolves without lumps.
2. Whisk Cream Cheese and Salt: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese with the kosher salt until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps.
3. Cook the Cream Base: In a 4-quart saucepan, combine the remaining heavy cream, sugar, and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring regularly until the sugar is fully dissolved. Continue boiling for 4 minutes.
4. Thicken the Base: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually whisk in the prepared cornstarch slurry. Return the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring constantly, until it slightly thickens, which usually takes about 20 seconds. Remove from heat immediately.
5. Combine and Chill: Gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the cream cheese mixture until it’s perfectly smooth. Stir in the buttermilk until well combined. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it until it is thoroughly chilled, which will take 3-4 hours, or ideally, overnight for best results.
6. Churn the Ice Cream: Assemble your ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour half of the thoroughly chilled ice cream base into the canister. Churn until the ice cream is thick and creamy, reaching a soft-serve consistency.
7. Layer and Freeze: As you remove the churned ice cream, carefully layer it into a freezer-safe storage container, alternately adding spoonfuls of your homemade peach jam. Swirl the jam gently through the ice cream with a knife or spoon, being careful not to mix it in completely; you want to create beautiful ribbons of peach jam throughout. Press a sheet of parchment paper directly against the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals, then seal it in an airtight container. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm, to achieve the perfect scoopable texture.

Assembling Your Irresistible Peach Jam Ice Cream Sodas!

Alright, my friends, this is where the magic truly comes together! Assembling these Peach Jam Ice Cream Sodas is a fantastic way to delight your family and friends with a truly special and incredibly delicious treat. Whether you’ve meticulously made your ice cream from scratch, as I’ve guided you, or opted for a high-quality store-bought pint for a quicker indulgence, the secret to elevating this classic lies in choosing the right fizzy companion. Seek out a real sugar or artisanal soda – something like a Georgia Peach Coke or another premium fruit-flavored soda – to provide that perfect, effervescent kick that complements the rich ice cream.

For those who appreciate tradition, you can always take it “old school.” Simply use classic vanilla ice cream, plain soda water, and your favorite flavored syrup. There are tons of fantastic syrup options available at specialty stores like World Market or even in the coffee aisle of most grocery stores, allowing for endless flavor combinations to suit any palate.

To assemble your masterpiece, grab a tall, elegant glass. Start by scooping a generous amount of your homemade (or chosen) Peach Jam Ice Cream into the bottom. If you’re using an additional flavored syrup, drizzle it over the ice cream at this stage. Then, slowly and carefully pour your chosen soda over the ice cream. The key is to pour gently to create that beautiful frothy head without overflowing. For a final flourish, garnish your soda with fresh peach slices, perhaps a sprig of mint, and serve immediately. Enjoy this delightful creation, a nod to the very first ice cream soda invented in 1874 by Robert McCay Green in Philadelphia, PA, which was indeed the precursor to the beloved root beer float!

📖 Recipe

LOOKING FOR SOME OTHER GOODIES?

If you’ve enjoyed crafting and tasting this delightful Peach Jam Ice Cream Soda, you might be keen to explore more of my indulgent recipes and reviews. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or simply seeking inspiration for your next kitchen adventure, I’ve got you covered. Dive into these other delectable creations:

• Homemade Sausage Manicotti: A comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
• Peach Jelly Donuts: If you can’t get enough of those fresh peach flavors, these pillowy donuts are a must-try.
• Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
• JoJo’s Biscuits – Magnolia Table Recipe Review – Free Recipe: My take on Joanna Gaines’ famous biscuits, with tips for perfection.

And for even more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out my NEW e-Cookbook below! It’s packed with quick and easy weeknight meals designed to make your cooking life simpler and more delicious. ⬇️

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MY FAVORITE KITCHEN TOOLS!

Equipping your kitchen with the right tools can truly transform your cooking experience, making it more efficient, enjoyable, and ultimately, more successful. Think of it like a chef’s dream workshop! Here are a few of my absolute favorite kitchen essentials that I wholeheartedly recommend – you might even say, in my best Oprah voice, “You get a car, you get a car, YOU ALL GET A CAR” (but for your kitchen!). These items are investments that will serve you well for years to come:

• These Rösle Silicone Tongs are a bit of an investment, but they are built to last a lifetime. Their soft, ergonomic grip is incredibly comfortable, which is crucial for someone like me who spends a lot of time cooking. They significantly reduce hand strain, and I love them so much, I have four sets in my kitchen!
• These Nordic Ware Sheet Pans are my absolute favorites, and I believe every kitchen should have at least two sets of them. Their durability and even heat distribution make them indispensable for baking, roasting, and everything in between. I personally own at least four of each size!
• This Fagor pressure cooker operates on the same brilliant principle as the “Instant Pot” but, in my experience, is even easier to use. If you don’t already own a pressure cooker, you absolutely NEED one; it will quickly become your best friend in the kitchen, saving you immense amounts of time and effort!
• This Scanpan 11″ skillet is the perfect size for nearly any cooking task and truly a workhorse in my kitchen. At just $99, it’s also an incredible value. Scanpan is renowned globally for healthy cooking, featuring a proprietary ceramic titanium coating that is exceptionally durable and allows you to cook with significantly less fat and oil. This unique coating is exclusive to Scanpan, making their pans stand out. I could genuinely rave about my love for these pans all day – feel free to message me if you’d like more detailed information! Other available sizes include the 8″ & 10″ Skillet set or the 8″ Skillet (which I still need for my collection!). As I tend to cook in larger quantities, the 12.5″ is another top favorite!
• A sharp knife is, without a doubt, the most critical tool in any kitchen. These Japanese steel “Shun” knives are my absolute favorites for their exceptional sharpness and balance. This starter set is a fantastic foundation to build upon. Once you experience the precision and ease of a Shun knife, you’ll be completely in love and eager to expand your collection over the years.
• This giant vat of olive oil is my go-to for daily cooking. I typically decant it into a more manageable smaller bottle that I keep on my counter for easy access. Alternatively, you can attach this handy spigot directly to the bottle for effortless pouring!
• This Tovolo jar scraper is arguably my single most-loved kitchen tool, and definitely the one I reach for most often. If you’re not a gadget person, I’d still argue this is an absolute necessity, right up there with a classic wooden spoon. It ensures you get every last bit out of jars and bowls!
• A high-quality wooden spoon is indispensable in any kitchen. This beautiful Olive Wood one is my favorite – I have more than I can count! But can one truly ever have too many reliable wooden spoons?
• A food scale can be an incredibly important tool for precise cooking and baking, ensuring consistent results every time. This one is the exact model I use in my kitchen every single day!
• If you admire Joanna Gaines as much as I do, then the ‘Magnolia Table Cookbook’ is an absolute must-have for your kitchen collection. Get your copy HERE and bring some of her farmhouse charm to your culinary adventures!
• Discover this fantastic product for your mason jars: the Ergo Spout. It ingeniously transforms any standard mason jar into a convenient, pourable pitcher. Get yours here! I particularly love using it for storing my homemade salad dressings in the refrigerator, making them easy to pour and serve.