Print

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Discover the creamy, rich flavor of Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream with this easy-to-follow recipe perfect for dessert lovers of all skill levels. Crafted with simple, high-quality ingredients, this velvety ice cream offers natural vanilla aroma and customizable texture, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped) or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 4 large egg yolks (optional, for custard texture)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vanilla Base: Warm the heavy cream and whole milk together in a saucepan over medium heat. If using a vanilla bean, split it open, scrape the seeds into the cream mixture, and add the pod as well. Heat until hot but not boiling to allow the vanilla to infuse.
  2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until pale and smooth, essential for a silky custard texture.
  3. Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour a ladle of the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Gradually pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining cream.
  4. Cook the Custard: Return the saucepan to low-medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, creating a creamy, smooth custard base.
  5. Chill the Mixture: Remove from heat, strain the custard to remove cooked egg bits and the vanilla pod, then refrigerate until completely cold, ideally several hours or overnight.
  6. Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions to incorporate air and achieve a creamy texture.
  7. Freeze Before Serving: Transfer the churned ice cream into a lidded container and freeze for at least 2-4 hours to firm up for ideal scooping consistency.

Notes

  • Use fresh cream, milk, and eggs for the best flavor and texture.
  • Properly chill the custard before churning to avoid icy texture and improve creaminess.
  • Choose pure vanilla extract or real vanilla beans to enhance flavor.
  • Stop churning when the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency to prevent over-dense texture.
  • Adjust sugar levels to your preference or to balance any mix-ins.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade vanilla ice cream, vanilla ice cream recipe, creamy ice cream, custard ice cream, easy dessert