Description
A simple and foolproof recipe for making the creamiest, smoothest homemade ice cream using basic ingredients and an ice cream maker. This classic vanilla ice cream can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Ice Cream Base
- 1¾ cups heavy cream
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: Pour 1 cup of the heavy cream into a saucepan and add the sugar and sea salt. If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the mixture and add the bean pod to the pan for maximum flavor infusion.
- Warm to Dissolve Sugar: Warm the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, just until the sugar has completely dissolved. Be careful not to boil. Remove from heat.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining ¾ cup heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract if you are not using the vanilla bean. Whisk thoroughly to blend all ingredients. Then, chill the mixture in the refrigerator until fully cold.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Remove the vanilla pod if used, whisk the chilled mixture again to ensure it’s smooth, and pour it into your ice cream maker. Churn following the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream is thick and creamy.
- Serve or Store: You can enjoy the ice cream immediately for a soft-serve texture, or transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for several hours to achieve a firmer consistency before serving.
Notes
- Using a vanilla bean creates a richer vanilla flavor, but vanilla extract is a convenient alternative.
- Ensure the cream mixture is fully chilled before churning to improve texture.
- Ice cream makers vary; read your machine’s instructions for best results.
- Store homemade ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- For softer ice cream, serve immediately after churning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning (Ice Cream Maker)
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade ice cream, vanilla ice cream, easy dessert, creamy ice cream, ice cream maker recipe
