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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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
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