If you’re searching for that perfect scoop of classic Vanilla Ice Cream, you’ve just found your new go-to recipe! This ultra-creamy dessert brings together simple ingredients to create something truly magical: rich, smooth, and bursting with nostalgic vanilla flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a summer barbecue or just want to re-create your favorite ice cream parlor treat at home, this version hits the sweet spot every time. So grab your spoons—this isn’t just dessert, it’s a joyful experience in a bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Vanilla Ice Cream is how it transforms a handful of everyday staples into a treat that feels special every single time. Each ingredient was picked for a reason—they blend together for a dreamy texture and unforgettable flavor!
- Heavy Cream: Delivers that signature richness and silky smooth texture you crave in homemade ice cream.
- Whole Milk: Keeps the ice cream light and balanced while contributing to the creamy mouthfeel.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the base and helps keep the finished ice cream soft scoopable.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: The heart of Vanilla Ice Cream—use the good stuff for a warm, fragrant flavor that pops.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and brings harmony to the sweetness.
How to Make Vanilla Ice Cream
Step 1: Mix the Base
Start by whisking together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved—this step is important for an even, luxurious texture. You’ll see the mixture thicken just slightly and it’ll already begin to smell irresistible!
Step 2: Chill Thoroughly
Once your mixture is ready, cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or, if you’ve got time, overnight. Chilling does two things: it intensifies the vanilla flavor and ensures the mixture is cold enough to freeze quickly in your ice cream maker, resulting in tiny ice crystals and a creamier scoop.
Step 3: Churn to Perfection
After your base is well chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker. Churn according to your machine’s instructions, usually about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for that soft-serve consistency where a spoon holds its shape and the vanilla aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 4: Freeze for Firmer Texture
Spoon the churned Vanilla Ice Cream into an airtight container and smooth the top. Tuck it into the freezer for 2 hours or more to let it firm up. Once set, you’ll be rewarded with scoopable, creamy, unforgettable ice cream.
How to Serve Vanilla Ice Cream
Garnishes
Dress up your Vanilla Ice Cream with a flourish! Classic choices like sprinkles, shaved chocolate, or a drizzle of caramel sauce work wonders. For an extra-special touch, fresh berries or a few crisp mint leaves highlight the simple vanilla goodness tucked into every bite.
Side Dishes
Pairing this ice cream is a breeze—think gooey brownies, warm apple pie, or a buttery shortbread cookie on the side. Vanilla Ice Cream is the scoop that completes any dessert, adding a cool, creamy finish to your favorite sweet treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Have a little fun! Layer scoops between cookies for the ultimate ice cream sandwich, serve in a crunchy waffle cone, or create a sundae bar with a variety of toppings. You can even float a scoop in cold brew or root beer for a playful ice cream float—the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Vanilla Ice Cream in an airtight container in your freezer. Press a layer of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing to prevent pesky ice crystals and frost from forming.
Freezing
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream stays freshest for up to two weeks in the freezer, though it’s so delicious it rarely lasts that long! If you plan to store it longer, check for changes in texture or flavor before serving as homemade varieties are best enjoyed while they’re freshest.
Reheating
Ice cream doesn’t exactly “reheat”, but if it’s too firm to scoop, simply leave the container at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes. It’ll soften up, allowing you to serve perfect, clean scoops every time.
FAQs
Can I make this Vanilla Ice Cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! After chilling the mixture, simply pour it into a freezer-safe container, freeze for 30 minutes, then stir vigorously. Repeat this every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, breaking up ice crystals for a smoother result.
How do I make Vanilla Ice Cream even richer?
For an even more decadent treat, try swapping in a scraped vanilla bean for the extract or increasing the heavy cream by half a cup. This amps up that creamy, dreamy texture we all love.
Can I add mix-ins to this Vanilla Ice Cream recipe?
Absolutely! After churning, gently fold in goodies like mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or swirls of fudge or jam. Stir them in before freezing for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Is this Vanilla Ice Cream gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your vanilla extract and any add-ins to be sure there’s no hidden gluten if you’re serving sensitive eaters.
What’s the serving size for this recipe?
This Vanilla Ice Cream recipe yields about 8 servings, with each serving being half a cup. It’s the perfect amount for family dessert nights or friendly gatherings!
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait for a special occasion to whip up this luscious Vanilla Ice Cream. It’s a true classic that never goes out of style, and making it at home is easier and more satisfying than you might imagine. One scoop is never enough—so go ahead, treat yourself and share a little happiness!
Print
Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling and freezing time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy richness of homemade Vanilla Ice Cream. This classic dessert is simple to make and a perfect treat for hot summer days.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until sugar dissolves.
- Chill Mixture: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Churn Ice Cream: Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 20–25 minutes.
- Freeze: Transfer churned ice cream to a container and freeze for 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a vanilla bean and steep it in warmed milk.
- Add-ins like chocolate chips or cookie pieces can be folded in after churning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
