Description
This Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream is rich, creamy, and full of real vanilla flavor. Made with simple ingredients, it’s the perfect classic dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for other flavors and toppings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 4 large egg yolks (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
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Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves (do not let it boil).
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Temper the Egg Yolks (if using)
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
- Slowly add about ½ cup of the warm milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly.
- Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
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Add Vanilla & Chill
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it against the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
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Freeze & Serve
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Scoop and enjoy!
Notes
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy (about 3 hours).
- Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit in the last 5 minutes of churning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 120mg