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Making homemade vanilla ice cream is easier than you think, and the results are far better than store-bought! With just five simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, luscious dessert that’s perfect for summer or any occasion. No unnecessary additives—just real dairy, pure vanilla, and a touch of sugar.
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Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 to 8
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Incredibly Simple – Just five ingredients and minimal prep make this a foolproof recipe for beginners.
- Rich and Creamy Texture – A perfect balance of heavy cream and milk creates a luxurious, smooth ice cream.
- Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or caramel swirls.
- No Artificial Ingredients – Unlike store-bought options, this homemade version is made with pure, high-quality ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it on its own or pair it with brownies, pies, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups heavy cream – Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- 1½ cups whole milk – Helps balance the texture, keeping the ice cream light yet creamy.
- ⅔ cup cane sugar – Sweetens the ice cream while helping achieve a smooth, scoopable consistency.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Provides deep, aromatic flavor; use high-quality pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk frequently and warm the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the sugar has fully dissolved and the liquid is warmed through. Be careful not to let it boil—keeping it below a simmer prevents the dairy from curdling.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Pour the ice cream base into a heatproof bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the mixture is cold enough for proper churning.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
Before churning, remove the chilled ice cream base from the refrigerator and whisk it well to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated. Pour it into a pre-frozen ice cream maker bowl and churn according to your machine’s instructions, typically for 20 to 30 minutes. The mixture will start thickening and take on a soft-serve consistency.
Step 4: Freeze for a Firmer Texture
Transfer the freshly churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 2 to 4 hours until it reaches a firmer, scoopable consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Store
Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy! If the ice cream is too firm straight from the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
FAQs
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Pour the chilled ice cream base into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals. Repeat this process for 2 to 3 hours until the ice cream is creamy and fully set.
Can I use alternative dairy or sweeteners?
For a dairy-free version, substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream and whole milk. You can also use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of cane sugar, though they may slightly alter the texture.
