Easy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the ice cream won’t be as creamy.

Whole Milk: Whole milk helps keep the ice cream from getting too hard. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can work, but keep in mind the flavor will change.

Granulated Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness. If you want a low-sugar version, you can substitute with a sweetener like honey or agave syrup, but start with less and adjust to taste.

Pure Vanilla Extract: This is essential for that classic vanilla flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use vanilla bean paste or even scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean for an even richer flavor.

How Do You Achieve the Perfect Ice Cream Texture?

Getting the right texture is key to making great ice cream. Here are some tips to ensure your ice cream is smooth and creamy:

• Make sure to whisk the milk, sugar, and salt until all the sugar is dissolved to avoid graininess.
• Chill your mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes before churning. This helps the ice cream freeze faster and become creamier.
• Follow your ice cream maker’s instructions carefully. Over-churning can lead to an icy texture.
• After churning, quickly transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze thoroughly for a couple of hours to firm it up nicely.

Easy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful homemade vanilla ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After churning, it needs at least 2 hours in the freezer to set properly, making the total time around 30-35 minutes of active time, plus freezing time.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mix the Base:

In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is important to ensure your ice cream has a smooth texture.

2. Add Cream and Vanilla:

Once the sugar is dissolved, gently stir in the heavy cream and the pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The vanilla is what gives it that delicious flavor!

3. Churn the Ice Cream:

Pour the ice cream mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically suggest churning for about 20-25 minutes. You want it to reach a soft-serve consistency.

4. Freeze Until Firm:

After churning, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container. Make sure to cover it well and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 2 hours, or until it’s nice and firm.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. You can add your favorite toppings like chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or fresh fruit. Enjoy the creamy goodness of your homemade vanilla ice cream!

FAQ for Easy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Can I Use Low-Fat Milk or Cream for This Recipe?

While you can use low-fat milk or cream, keep in mind that the texture and creaminess will be affected. Full-fat ingredients lead to a richer ice cream. For the best results, stick with heavy cream and whole milk.

How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?

To make a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?

Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within a week for optimal freshness. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping.

Can I Add Mix-Ins or Flavors to This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruits during the last few minutes of churning, or swirl in sauces once it’s in the container. Experiment with flavors to customize your ice cream!