Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
This homemade vanilla ice cream recipe is creamy, sweet, and perfect for summertime cravings—way better than store-bought!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy cream This is what makes ice cream smooth and rich.
- 1 cup Whole milk Do not use 2 percent milk; stick with whole for best results.
- ¾ cup Granulated sugar Just enough for sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Pure vanilla extract Use real vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- A pinch Salt Helps to bring everything together.
Toppings (Optional)
- Chocolate chips For chocolate lovers.
- Caramel A delicious swirl of flavor.
- Crushed cookies Oreos or graham crackers work well.
- Bacon bits For a surprising savory twist.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by chilling your mixing bowl and any other utensils you'll use.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined.
Churning
- Pour the mixture into your ice cream machine and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions—usually about 20-25 minutes till it resembles soft serve.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a shallow container and let it freeze for a couple of hours for best texture.
Storage & Serving
- To prevent ice crystals, press plastic wrap onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it’s too hard.
Notes
Try mixing in different ingredients for a variety of flavors—like espresso powder or fruit jam. Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed fresh but can last in the freezer for about a week.