Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Learn how to make classic vanilla ice cream with this easy and creamy recipe. Perfect for a refreshing summer treat, this homemade vanilla ice cream requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation. Whether you’re serving it alone or with your favorite desserts, this smooth and rich ice cream is sure to impress.
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Serving
4
Difficulty
Easy
How Long Does Ice Cream Last?
Homemade ice cream won’t last as long as store-bought ice cream. Store your vanilla ice cream in an airtight storage container, recycled ice cream container, or zip-top freezer bag. Try to enjoy the ice cream within a few weeks for the best taste.
Tips & Tricks:
- Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of vanilla ice cream largely depends on the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh cream, whole milk, and pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Chill the Custard Thoroughly: Make sure the custard mixture is well-chilled before churning. This helps the ice cream churn faster and results in a smoother texture.
- Avoid Overcooking the Custard: When heating the custard, keep the temperature low and stir constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. If it does start to curdle, you can blend it with an immersion blender to smooth it out.
- Don’t Overfill the Ice Cream Maker: Only fill your ice cream maker about two-thirds full to allow room for the ice cream to expand as it churns.
- Add Mix-ins Wisely: If you want to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit, wait until the last few minutes of churning so they distribute evenly without sinking to the bottom.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to keep it creamy and fresh. Ice cream is best enjoyed within two weeks for optimal texture and flavor.
Enjoy your homemade vanilla ice cream as a perfect treat on its own, or use it as a base for sundaes, milkshakes, or ice cream sandwiches!
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 5 large egg yolks
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 3g
Directions
-
Prepare the Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to simmer (do not let it boil). Remove from heat.
-
Whisk Egg Yolks:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
-
Temper the Eggs:
- Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to avoid curdling. This process is called tempering and prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly.
-
Combine and Heat:
- Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F to 175°F). Be careful not to let it boil.
-
Strain and Cool:
- Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill completely.
-
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
-
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
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Frena V
I’m Frena, an author at TheNextArticle. I have a deep passion for writing and enjoy exploring a wide range of topics. From breaking news and technological advancements to economic trends and startup stories, I love delivering fresh and engaging content. My goal is to provide valuable insights and keep readers informed with every article I write.
