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Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
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This Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream recipe teaches you how to make rich, creamy, and velvety ice cream using simple ingredients such as heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whether you choose to use eggs for a custard base or not, this easy-to-follow recipe creates a smooth and luscious dessert perfect for any occasion, customizable with mix-ins and toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup sugar (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Custard Base

  • 4 large egg yolks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Base (Optional but Recommended): Warm 1 cup whole milk, half of the sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat until just steaming. In a separate bowl, whisk 4 egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale. Slowly pour some of the hot milk into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper them. Combine this mixture back into the saucepan. Cook gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and strain to remove any cooked egg bits.
  2. Mix Cream and Vanilla: Allow the custard to cool slightly, then stir in 2 cups heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. If not using eggs, simply mix 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract together until sugar dissolves. Chill the mixture completely in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
  3. Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the cold base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency. This step incorporates air and creates the creamy texture.
  4. Freeze to Set: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover tightly. Freeze for an additional 4 hours or until firm to achieve perfect scoopable consistency.

Notes

  • Use full-fat dairy for best creaminess and to avoid icy texture.
  • Chill all ingredients thoroughly before churning to improve texture.
  • Strain custard base to ensure smooth, lump-free ice cream.
  • Adjust sugar levels to taste but avoid over-sweetening.
  • Store ice cream in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/homemade-vanilla-ice-cream/