This easy homemade vanilla ice cream is a creamy delight that anyone can whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a cool treat right from your kitchen!
You don’t need an ice cream maker to enjoy this frozen goodness! I love serving it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate syrup—perfect for a warm day or just because! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but it may not be as creamy. I prefer using heavy cream for the best results.
Whole Milk: It adds creaminess, but you can swap it with 2% milk if that’s what you have. Keep in mind that substituting with skim milk will make the ice cream less rich.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener is essential for flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount since they’re sweeter than sugar.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use imitation vanilla extract, but I always recommend pure for that genuine taste.
How Do I Get a Creamy Texture Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Churning ice cream is key to a smooth texture, but you can still achieve great results without specialized equipment. Here’s how:
- Pour your mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for about 30 minutes.
- After freezing, use a whisk or a fork to stir the mixture well, breaking up any ice crystals that have formed.
- Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until the ice cream is firm and smooth. This mimics the churning effect!
This method does require a bit of patience, but it’s totally worth it for homemade ice cream! Enjoy!
Easy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful homemade vanilla ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to churn it for about 20-25 minutes if using an ice cream maker. After that, just freeze it for 2-4 hours to give it a nice, firm texture. So, plan on about 2 and a half to 4 and a half hours total before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. Pour in the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Whisk everything together really well until the sugar has fully dissolved. You want a smooth mixture, so take your time!
2. Add Flavor:
Once the sugar is dissolved, add in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine. The vanilla will give your ice cream that wonderful flavor we all love!
3. Churn Away:
Now it’s time to make it cold and creamy! Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions—usually about 20-25 minutes will get you a nice soft-serve consistency.
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
After churning, transfer the ice cream into a lidded container. Spread it out evenly and pop it into the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 2-4 hours until it’s nice and firm. It’s going to be hard to wait, but it will be worth it!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to treat yourself, just scoop the ice cream into bowls or glasses. You can add toppings like chocolate sauce, fresh fruit, or sprinkles if you want. Dig in and enjoy your creamy homemade vanilla ice cream!
Note:
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, no worries! Just pour your mixture into a shallow baking dish and freeze it. After 30 minutes, pull it out and whisk vigorously to break up any ice crystals that form. Keep repeating this every 30 minutes until your ice cream is smooth and firm. You got this!
FAQs for Easy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
Can I Use Alternative Creams or Milks?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, but it may not be as rich. For the milk, 2% can work in place of whole milk, but avoid skim milk for the best creamy texture.
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Your homemade vanilla ice cream can last in an airtight container in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, as it can become quite hard!
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit once the ice cream has been churned but before it goes into the freezer. Just be careful not to overmix!
What if I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! Simply pour your mixture into a shallow baking dish and freeze it. Whisk it every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours to break up any ice crystals until you reach that smooth, creamy ice cream consistency.
