This classic vanilla ice cream recipe is simple to make and yields a creamy, rich dessert that’s perfect on its own or as a base for any toppings you love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Heat the Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 170°F to 180°F).
- Add Vanilla:
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool the Mixture:
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop and enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla ice cream!
Alternate Method (Without an Ice Cream Maker):
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also place the chilled mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish and freeze for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until the desired consistency is reached.
Variations:
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream:
- Substitute vanilla extract with 1 vanilla bean. Split the bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds into the mixture before heating. Add the bean pod as well, and remove it before chilling.
- Chocolate Chip Vanilla Ice Cream:
- During the last few minutes of churning, add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate.
- Fruit Swirl Ice Cream:
- Gently fold in 1 cup of your favorite fruit preserves or fresh fruit puree before transferring to the freezer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in a bowl or a cone with toppings like fresh berries, chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, sprinkles, or whipped cream.
- Pair with warm desserts like apple pie, brownies, or a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie.
FAQs:
- Can I use low-fat milk?
- Using low-fat milk will result in a less creamy texture. It’s best to use whole milk and heavy cream for the classic rich and creamy consistency.
- How long does homemade ice cream last?
- Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within a week. Store it in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Can I add mix-ins?
- Yes, you can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit during the last few minutes of churning.
Servings:
- Makes about 1 quart (4 cups) of ice cream, serving approximately 6-8 people.
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes (active)
Cooking Time:
- 10 minutes (heating)
Chilling Time:
- 2 hours (minimum)
Freezing Time:
- 2 hours
Total Time:
- 4 hours 25 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximately 1/2 cup):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 13g
- Protein: 2g
Enjoy your creamy, delicious homemade vanilla ice cream!
Recipe Card
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
This classic vanilla ice cream recipe is simple to make and yields a creamy, rich dessert that’s perfect on its own or as a base for any toppings you love
Ingredients
- – 2 cups heavy cream
- – 1 cup whole milk
- – 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- – 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Heat the Mixture:
- – In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
- – Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 170°F to 180°F).
Add Vanilla:
- – Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Cool the Mixture:
- – Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- – Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- – Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Serve and Enjoy:
- – Scoop and enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla ice cream!
Alternate Method (Without an Ice Cream Maker):
- – If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also place the chilled mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish and freeze for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until the desired consistency is reached.