Description
This easy homemade ice cream recipe creates a creamy and delicious treat using simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whether you have an ice cream maker or not, you can enjoy smooth, flavorful ice cream at home with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies for extra fun.
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
- Mix Sugar, Milk, and Salt: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, whole milk, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a smooth base for your ice cream.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, ensuring it’s well chilled for optimal churning and texture.
- Churn or Freeze: If using an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container.
- Manual Freezing Method: For the freezer method, stir the mixture every 30 minutes for 2 to 3 hours to break up ice crystals and keep the texture smooth.
- Add Mix-Ins: Once the mixture has thickened to a soft-serve texture, fold in any optional mix-ins such as chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit gently but evenly.
- Final Freeze: Return the ice cream to the freezer and freeze for an additional 2 to 3 hours or until it firms up to the desired consistency.
- Serve: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.
Notes
- For the best texture, make sure to dissolve the sugar completely in the milk before adding the cream.
- Use full-fat dairy ingredients for a rich and creamy result.
- Chilling the base mixture is essential to speed up the churning process and improve ice cream texture.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, stirring during freezing is crucial to prevent large ice crystals and maintain creaminess.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts, caramel swirls, or berries to customize your ice cream.
- Letting the ice cream soften slightly before scooping makes serving easier and improves mouthfeel.
