Churn Up the Fun: Easy Homemade Ice Cream in a Flash

The Scoop on Homemade Bliss

There’s just something magical about homemade ice cream. Maybe it’s the velvety swirl, the creamy chill, or that sweet moment when you realize you made this dreamy dessert from scratch. And let’s be real—store-bought just can’t compete with the fresh, rich flavor you get from your own kitchen.

This recipe is all about simplicity. No fancy gadgets or obscure ingredients here—just a few pantry staples, a bowl, a whisk, and boom: you’re seven ingredients away from pure frozen joy. And trust me, it tastes like it took hours, not 15 minutes. (Now that’s what we call brain freeze efficiency! )

Get ready for a scoop that’s silky-smooth, mildly sweet, and totally customizable. Love chocolate chips or dreaming of a swirl of caramel? You’re the boss.

Already thinking about fresh toppings? After this, you might want to check out my 5-minute strawberry compote—a perfect drizzle for today’s frozen masterpiece.

Ready? Let’s churn up some joy together!

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

A simple homemade ice cream recipe made with just seven ingredients that creates a silky-smooth and mildly sweet dessert, easily customizable with mix-ins.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

0 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 4 cups

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Ice cream maker

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups heavy cream Provides a rich texture
• 1 cup whole milk Balances the creaminess
• 3/4 cup sugar Adds sweetness
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Enhances flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Brings out sweetness
• 4 large egg yolks Creates a custard base
• optional mix-ins Chocolate chips, caramel, etc.

Instructions

 

• Whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a mixing bowl until fully blended.
  2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon salt
  
• Add 4 large egg yolks to the mixture and whisk until the yolks are completely incorporated and the mixture is light in color.
  4 large egg yolks
  
• Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it thickens and resembles soft serve, usually about 20 minutes.
  
• If adding mix-ins, fold them gently into the churned ice cream at this point.
  optional mix-ins
  
• Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and smooth the top. Freeze for an additional 2–4 hours until firm.
  
• Scoop and serve the ice cream once it has hardened. It should be creamy and smooth in texture.
  

Notes

For a more robust flavor, consider letting the mixture chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before churning.

Keyword homemade, ice cream, vanilla

That’s it—your ticket to creamy, dreamy ice cream without the fuss! For a fun twist, try serving it in a chilled mason jar or between two cookies (hello, DIY ice cream sandwich!). I’d love to hear how yours turns out—drop your flavor spins, questions, or pics below. Happy scooping, friend!