The Ice Cream Barfi Recipe is a quick & easy method to make this rich and creamy sweet using just 2 ingredients. It takes time to prepare traditional barfi, so this quick method uses ice cream and milk powder to achieve the same great flavor in minutes. It takes no special skills — mix, set, and enjoy.
So read on to find the simplest way to prepare ice cream barfi at home.
What is Ice Cream Barfi?
Ice cream barfi is a soft and creamy Indian sweet that is made with melted ice cream and milk powder. Traditional barfi requires hours of slow cooking, but this version takes out the longer steps and still provides the same rich flavor. So the texture is smooth, and the flavor depends on the ice cream you pick.
No wonder this dessert is such a popular choice: it’s fast, no-fuss, and the kind of thing you can easily adapt. You can prepare this with various ice cream flavors such as vanilla, mango, or chocolate.It’s fantastic for festivals, celebrations or a quick homemade treat. Pair it with a delicious and aromatic Hyderabadi Dum Biryani for a full festive meal; your guests will thank you!
Ice Cream Barfi Recipe | Ingredients Required
Ingredients used to make ice cream barfi are very simple and easily available. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Ice Cream (1 cup) – Any flavor of your choice (vanilla, mango, strawberry, chocolate, or kesar pista).
- Milk Powder (1 cup) – Gives barfi its thick, creamy texture.
- Sugar (¼ cup) – Adjust as per taste; some ice creams are already sweet enough.
- Ghee (2 tbsp) – Helps bind the mixture and adds richness.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Cardamom Powder (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle aroma.
- Chopped Nuts (2 tbsp) – Almonds, cashews, or pistachios for crunch.
- Saffron Strands – Enhances color and taste, especially for kesar barfi.
- Rose Water (½ tsp) – Gives a mild floral taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Condensed Milk Instead of Sugar – If you want a richer taste, skip sugar and use ¼ cup condensed milk.
- Butter Instead of Ghee – If you don’t have ghee, unsalted butter works too.
- Coconut Milk Powder Instead of Regular Milk Powder – For a dairy-free version.
This ingredient list ensures your ice cream barfi turns out perfect every time.
How to Make Ice Cream Barfi
For ice cream barfi, the preparation is simple and requires a few steps. Just follow this easy method and enjoy a perfect melt-in-mouth barfi.
Step 1: Melt the Ice Cream
Add 1 scoop of ice cream in a bowl. Allow it to sit at room temperature until you achieve complete melting, about 5–10 minutes. Do not heat it directly, which might alter its texture.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
- Grease a pan on low flame with 2 tbsp ghee. Let it melt.
- Add the melted ice cream and stir constantly.
- Add 1 cup milk powder and ¼ cup sugar. Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Cook on low flame until mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan. It will not take more than 7–10 minutes to complete this.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Nuts
- For additional flavor, add ½ tsp of cardamom powder.
- Add 2 tbsp chopped nuts; almonds, pistachios or cashews. Stir well.
- If using saffron strands, soak them beforehand in 1 tbsp warm milk.
Step 4: Set the Barfi
- Dust the bottom of a plate or tray with ghee or butter paper.
- Add the thickened barfi mixture into it.
- With a spatula, spread it evenly to about ½–inch thick.
- Cool to room temperature for 30–40 minutes or cool in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
- After it has been set, cut the barfi into squares, diamonds or any shape of your choice.
- Sprinkle even more chopped nuts or edible silver foil on top for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
This way, you always get soft, creamy, rich barfi!
Ice Cream Barfi — Flavors
Ice cream barfi is super easy to customize. You can switch up the flavors using different ice creams or adding more ingredients. Here are a few delicious variations:
1. Chocolate Ice Cream Barfi
- Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla.
- Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder while cooking for a rich taste.
- Top with chocolate chips or grated dark chocolate.
For a delightful contrast of flavors, pair this Chocolate Ice Cream Barfi with our Chocolate Covered Potato Chips Recipe—a perfect sweet and salty treat!
2. Mango Ice Cream Barfi
- Use mango-flavored ice cream.
- Add ½ tsp saffron strands soaked in warm milk for extra color.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios.
3. Pistachio Ice Cream Barfi
- Use pistachio ice cream for a nutty flavor.
- Mix in finely chopped pistachios.
- Add ½ tsp rose water for a delicate aroma.
4. Strawberry Ice Cream Barfi
- Use strawberry ice cream and add ½ tsp rose syrup.
- Garnish with freeze-dried strawberries or chopped almonds.
5. Coffee Ice Cream Barfi
- Use coffee-flavored ice cream.
- Add ½ tsp instant coffee powder for a stronger taste.
- Sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
Pro Tips for the Best Ice Cream Barfi
Follow these tips for a perfect barfi every time:
- Use full-fat ice cream – It gives the best texture. Low-fat or dairy-free options may need adjustments.
- Melt the ice cream naturally – Avoid heating it directly, as it can change the texture.
- Stir continuously – This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth mixture.
- Do not overcook – Cooking too long can make the barfi dry. Stop when it starts leaving the pan.
- Set at the right temperature – Cooling too fast in the fridge can make the barfi hard. Let it set at room temperature first.
- Use fresh ingredients – Old milk powder or nuts can affect the taste and texture.
How to Make Ice Cream Barfi Vegan?
You can make a vegan version of this sweet with a few simple swaps:
- Use dairy-free ice cream – Choose almond, coconut, or cashew-based ice creams.
- Replace milk powder – Use coconut milk powder or cashew powder.
- Swap ghee for coconut oil – This keeps the barfi soft and rich.
- Choose plant-based milk – If needed, use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk.
Vegan ice cream barfi will have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Ice Cream Barfi?
Proper storage keeps barfi fresh for days:
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in a cool place.
- In the refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 3–4 days. Place parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.
- In the freezer: Can be stored for up to a month. Wrap each piece in foil and place in an airtight box. Thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery ice cream – Low-fat ice creams contain more water, making the barfi too soft.
- Skipping milk powder – This ingredient gives barfi its firm texture. Without it, the mixture may not set properly.
- Overcooking the mixture – It should be thick but soft. Cooking too long makes it crumbly.
- Not greasing the tray – The barfi may stick and break when cutting. Always grease the tray or use butter paper.
- Storing in a warm place – Heat can make the barfi melt and lose its shape. Keep it in a cool place.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Piece of Ice Cream Barfi)
Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on the brand of ingredients used.
Nutrient |
Amount |
| Calories | 120-150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15-18g |
| Protein | 3-4g |
| Fat | 5-7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3-4g |
| Sugar | 10-12g |
| Calcium | 5-8% of Daily Value |
FAQs About Ice Cream Barfi Recipe
Can I use homemade ice cream for this recipe?
Yes! Homemade ice cream works well. Just make sure it is creamy and full-fat for the best texture.
What if my barfi turns out too soft?
If the barfi is too soft, it means it wasn’t cooked enough. Put it back on low heat and stir for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Which ice cream brands are best for barfi?
Use premium brands like Häagen-Dazs, Ben & Jerry’s, or Amul. Avoid low-fat or sugar-free versions, as they contain more water.
Can I make barfi without milk powder?
Yes, but you need a substitute. Use almond flour, coconut milk powder, or cashew powder for a similar texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just check the labels on your ice cream and milk powder to be sure.
Last Thoughts
Ice cream barfi is a fun and easy dessert that brings a creamy twist to traditional sweets. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth treat for any occasion. Try different flavors, follow the tips, and enjoy homemade barfi with your family!
