Here’s the deal. If you like grape soda at all, you have to try making Grapico Ice Cream. It’s got that strong, sweet grape flavor that tastes exactly like summer. Plus, it turns this wild, bright purple that just looks fun in a bowl.
It’s not something you see every day. Most people do vanilla or chocolate, but this? This is different. It’s a Southern classic if you know Grapico, but even if you’ve never had it, it’s worth making just for the surprise factor alone.
Best part? It’s easy. You just need an ice cream maker and a little time. No complicated steps. Just mix it up, churn it, freeze it, and you’re done. Perfect for when it’s hot out or you want to impress people without a ton of effort. If you’re bored of the usual flavors or just want to make something everyone will talk about, this is it. related recipe: homemade ice cream
Table of Contents
What is Grapico Ice Cream?
It’s exactly what it sounds like ice cream that uses Grapico soda. You know, that bright purple grape soda that’s popular in the South? Super sweet, tastes like liquid grape candy.
When you churn it into ice cream, you get that same classic grape soda flavor but cold and creamy. It stays this wild purple color that looks great in a bowl or cone.
It’s not your standard vanilla or chocolate. It’s something different. Kind of a conversation starter. If you want to serve something that’s easy but still gets people saying “what is this?,” Grapico Ice Cream is perfect.
Ingredients for Grapico Ice Cream
Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- 2 cups heavy cream. Gives it that rich, creamy texture.
- 1 cup whole milk. Helps balance it out.
- 1 cup sugar. Sweetens everything up.
- 1 can (12 oz) Grapico soda. The star of the show. This is what gives it that classic grape soda taste and purple color.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Adds a little depth.
- A pinch of salt. Brings out all the flavors.
That’s it. Nothing weird or hard to find. Just basic stuff you can grab at any grocery store.
How to Make Grapico Ice Cream
It’s honestly super easy. Here’s how you do it:
1. Mix the dairy and sugar.
Get a big bowl. Pour in the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Whisk it until the sugar’s gone.
2. Add vanilla and salt.
Throw in the vanilla and a pinch of salt. Give it a quick stir.
3. Add the Grapico.
Slowly pour in the Grapico soda. Do it slow so it doesn’t fizz all over. Stir gently to mix it in.
4. Churn it.
Pour that mix into your ice cream maker. Let it do its thing—usually about 20 to 25 minutes until it’s thick and soft-serve-like.
5. Transfer to container.
Scoop it into an airtight container.
6. Freeze.
Stick it in the freezer for at least 4 hours so it firms up.
That’s it. No weird steps. Just mix, churn, freeze, eat.
Equipment Needed
Nothing fancy here. Just a few basics:
- Ice Cream Maker. Kind of essential for this one. It’s what gives you that smooth, churned texture.
- Mixing Bowl. Big enough to hold everything without splashing over.
- Whisk. To get the sugar fully mixed in.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons. So you don’t just eyeball it (unless that’s your style).
- Airtight Container. For freezing and storing the ice cream without freezer burn.
That’s really all you need. Nothing complicated or special.
Helpful Tips
A few little things that make this come out even better:
- Chill Your Ingredients. Cold cream and milk help it set up faster.
- Cool the Bowl. If you can, stick your mixing bowl in the fridge for a bit before starting. Makes a difference.
- Pour Grapico Slowly. Go easy so it doesn’t foam up like crazy. Slow pour, gentle stir.
- Airtight Storage. When you’re freezing it, press plastic wrap right onto the surface before sealing. Helps keep ice crystals away.
- Give It Time. Don’t rush the freeze. At least 4 hours. Overnight’s even better if you can wait.
These little things take it from “good” to “so much better.”
What to Serve with Grapico Ice Cream
It’s great by itself, but if you want to make it extra fun, here’s what you can add:
- Fresh berries. Strawberries or blueberries work really well with the grape flavor.
- Warm chocolate sauce. Just pour it over the top for that extra something.
- Cake. Even a simple slice of pound cake or whatever you’ve got around makes it feel fancy.
- Whipped cream. Can’t really go wrong with that.
- Crushed cookies. Adds a nice crunch if you want it.
Honestly, anything you usually like on ice cream will work here too. Just have fun with it.
FAQ
Can I use a different grape soda?
Yep. Any grape soda will work. Grapico is just the classic Southern favorite, but use whatever you can find.
Do I really need an ice cream maker?
Honestly, it helps a lot. That’s what gives it that smooth, churned texture. If you don’t have one, you can try a no-churn method, but it won’t be quite the same.
How long does it take to churn?
Usually around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your machine. You just want it to get nice and thick, like soft serve.
Can I cut back on the sugar?
A bit, sure. Just keep in mind the soda’s already sweet. If you cut too much, it can end up icy instead of creamy.
How do I store leftovers?
Just pop it in an airtight container in the freezer. Best trick is to press plastic wrap right on top before sealing so it doesn’t get icy.
How do I make it easier to scoop?
Let it sit on the counter for 5 or 10 minutes. Makes it way easier to get a good scoop.
Why can’t you find grape ice cream?
Honestly, it’s just not something most stores bother making. Grape flavor can be strong and kind of artificial in ice cream, so most places don’t do it. That’s what makes making Grapico Ice Cream at home so fun—it’s different.
Does anybody make grape ice cream?
Not many. Sometimes local shops will have it as a special flavor, but it’s pretty rare. Homemade is your best bet.
What is the most wanted ice cream?
The usual classics. Vanilla, chocolate, cookies and cream. Grapico Ice Cream is more of a fun, unexpected twist for when you want something no one else is bringing to the party.
Conclusion
That’s all there is to it. Grapico Ice Cream is just a fun, different dessert you can actually make at home. It’s got that classic grape soda taste, turns this bright purple, and is way more interesting than the usual vanilla or chocolate.
If you want to try something new or get people talking at your next get-together, this is a good one to have in the freezer. It’s easy. It doesn’t need fancy ingredients. Just mix, churn, freeze, and you’re done.
Give it a try. Share it with friends. It’s the kind of treat that makes people ask, “Wait, you made this?” and want another scoop.