Get ready to scoop pure happiness into a bowl with this Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe! There’s just something magical about creamy, dreamy ice cream made from scratch, especially when you realize how effortless it is (even without an ice cream maker). This recipe combines just four simple ingredients but delivers the lushest, silkiest vanilla ice cream you can imagine. Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, impress friends on movie night, or simply indulge your sweet tooth, you’ll find this Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe becomes your go-to for quick, irresistible dessert magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about simplicity! These easy staples shouldn’t be underestimated: each one brings something important to the final taste and texture. When you taste that first luscious bit, you’ll see just how each ingredient pulls its weight in this recipe.
- Heavy whipping cream: This is what makes the ice cream luxuriously creamy and helps it hold a beautiful, airy texture without churning.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness and keeps the ice cream soft enough to scoop right from your freezer.
- Vanilla extract: The secret to that classic, fragrant vanilla backbone we all love in ice cream—use the best you’ve got!
- Pinch of salt: Just a smidge brightens up all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
How to Make Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring your heavy whipping cream into a sturdy mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on high speed, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This is the real “churn” in our no-churn ice cream! Take care not to overmix, or you’ll end up with butter—which is delicious, but not exactly what we’re going for here.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Base
In a separate bowl, stir together your sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and that all-important pinch of salt. Make sure it’s well combined; this is the flavor core of your Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe, so you want it perfectly smooth and even.
Step 3: Fold Together Gently
Now, combine the two mixtures! Gently fold your whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk base. Go slow with a spatula, using wide, gentle strokes. You’re aiming for a smooth, fluffy mixture—think mousse, not batter. Take your time and don’t rush; every bit of care here means ultra-creamy scoops later on.
Step 4: Freeze It Up
Spoon the luscious mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top if you like. Cover tightly with a lid or a snug layer of plastic wrap. Slide the container into your freezer and try to resist peeking for at least 6 hours. This patience pays off: the result is the creamiest Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe you’ll ever try, no ice crystals in sight.
Step 5: Scoop and Serve
Once your ice cream is firm and set, it’s time for the fun part: scoop and serve! If you want, this is the moment to lavish on extra toppings or swirl in handfuls of crushed cookies or fruit before that first bite. Enjoy all your hard work—it’s pure delight.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
This ice cream adores a little flair! Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, a drizzle of warm caramel, fresh berries, or even toasted coconut flakes. These garnishes not only add color and crunch but bring their own flavor personalities to every scoop.
Side Dishes
If you want to play dessert matchmaker, try scooping this creamy treat over a warm slice of pie, next to fudgy brownies, or atop a tender waffle. The hot-cold combo will win hearts every single time.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests (or yourself!) by serving your Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe in crunchy waffle bowls, between cookies as ice cream sandwiches, or alongside an array of mini toppings for a DIY sundae station. For special occasions, mold the ice cream into cute shapes with cookie cutters after it’s partially frozen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This ice cream really shines in make-ahead potential. Store it tightly covered in your freezer and it will remain creamy and scoopable for up to two weeks. Pressing a piece of plastic wrap right on the surface before sealing will keep pesky ice crystals at bay.
Freezing
Always use a shallow, airtight container for best results—this helps the ice cream freeze evenly and makes scooping extra easy. If you love adding mix-ins, stir them in just before the mixture goes into the freezer so they stay evenly distributed.
Reheating
While you won’t be reheating your Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe, it helps to let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. This tops the flavor and texture, making every bite as creamy as the first day.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe without an electric mixer?
Absolutely! You can whip the cream by hand with a whisk—it just takes a little muscle and some extra time. It’s actually a great workout, and you’ll feel super accomplished when those stiff peaks appear!
What other flavors can I create with this base?
The possibilities are endless! Swirl in fruit puree for berry or mango versions, add spoonfuls of cocoa powder for chocolate, or stir in espresso powder for a delicious coffee twist. Use your imagination and your favorite flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as written. Just be sure any mix-ins you add (like cookies or candies) also meet your dietary needs.
How can I keep the ice cream extra smooth and scoopable?
Make sure to mix gently when folding the whipped cream into the base—this traps the airy texture. Also, store the ice cream tightly wrapped in your freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger container. Allow a little extra time for freezing, and get ready to make everyone at the party very, very happy.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered if it’s possible to make truly luscious, creamy ice cream at home without fancy equipment, this Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe is your answer. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own with favorite mix-ins and flavors—the smiles (and requests for seconds) will say it all. Happy scooping!
Print
Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus freezing
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this easy homemade ice cream recipe that requires no churning. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious frozen treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Heavy Whipping Cream:
2 cups;
Sweetened Condensed Milk:
1 cup;
Vanilla Extract:
2 teaspoons;
Salt:
pinch
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: In another bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine and Freeze: Gently fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture until fully combined and smooth. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover. Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Scoop and serve as desired.
Notes
- You can customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit.
- For flavor variations, try adding cocoa powder or fruit puree.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Churn, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
