The Best Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream EVER Recipe
Introduction
This homemade vanilla ice cream recipe is creamy, rich, and delightfully simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a classic treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, salt, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Step 2: Pour the mixture into your ice cream freezer container.
- Step 3: Process the mixture according to the instructions for your ice cream freezer.
- Step 4: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, you can add any desired mix-ins such as fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts.
- Step 5: Continue freezing until the ice cream is firm and ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use more heavy cream and less milk.
- Add fresh fruit or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning for extra flavor and texture.
- Try swapping vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla flavor.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your preferred sweetness level.
Storage
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To soften for serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes or scoop and allow to soften slightly before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream freezer?
Yes, but the texture might be less smooth. You can freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until the ice cream is firm.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat coconut milk or other creamy plant-based milks, keeping the same quantities. The texture and flavor will be different but still delicious.
PrintThe Best Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream EVER Recipe
This creamy and rich homemade vanilla ice cream recipe is incredibly easy to make and yields the best classic vanilla flavor. Made with simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, it serves as a perfect base for adding your favorite mix-ins like fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts. Ideal for any occasion, this ice cream is smooth, satisfying, and customizable to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (churning time)
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus additional freezing time as needed
- Yield: 1 quart (approximately 4 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- Fruit (e.g., berries, chopped mango)
- Chocolate chips
- Nuts (e.g., chopped almonds, pecans)
Optional Add-ins
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, pinch of salt, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
- Pour Mixture into Freezer Container: Transfer the prepared ice cream mixture into the container of your ice cream freezer or ice cream maker.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: If desired, incorporate fruits, chocolate chips, nuts, or other additions into the mixture to personalize your ice cream flavor.
- Process Ice Cream: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream freezer to churn and freeze the mixture until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This typically takes approximately 20-40 minutes depending on your equipment.
- Freeze for Firmness: For a firmer texture, transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for an additional 2-4 hours before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade vanilla ice cream.
- Adjust Quantity as Needed: This recipe makes about 1 quart. You can double or triple the ingredients proportionally to make larger batches as needed.
Notes
- Ensure sugar is fully dissolved in the liquid mixture before churning to avoid grainy texture.
- Use full-fat dairy for the richest and creamiest results.
- Customize your ice cream by adding mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until set.
- For best texture, consume within 1-2 weeks.
Keywords: homemade vanilla ice cream, easy ice cream recipe, classic vanilla ice cream, ice cream maker recipe
