Description
This easy homemade ice cream recipe brings pure happiness with its creamy texture and customizable mix-ins. Made from simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, it can be prepared with or without an ice cream maker. Enjoy a delightful treat with minimal effort and ready in about 4 hours.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed cookies
- 1/2 cup fruit mix-ins
Instructions
- Whisk Sugar Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, whole milk, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is completely dissolved to ensure a smooth ice cream base.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract into the sugar mixture to enhance the flavor and richness of the ice cream.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled, which helps improve the texture when freezing.
- Churn or Freeze: If you have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture in and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Without an ice cream maker, transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container for manual freezing.
- Manual Freezing Process: For no-machine method, stir the mixture every 30 minutes for 2 to 3 hours. This intermittent stirring breaks up ice crystals and promotes a smoother texture.
- Add Mix-ins: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies to customize your flavor.
- Freeze Until Firm: Freeze the ice cream for an additional 2 to 3 hours or until it becomes firm and scoopable.
- Serve: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping and the best texture.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, ensure to thoroughly chill the base mixture before freezing or churning.
- If using mix-ins, add them only after the ice cream has partially set to avoid sinking.
- You can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative suitable for your diet, but results may vary.
- Adjust freezing time slightly depending on your freezer’s temperature and container size.
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals formation and maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 45 minutes (including freezing/stirring time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
