Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe: The Perfect Treat with 5 Modern Twist
Learn to make creamy, homemade vanilla ice cream with this easy recipe. Featuring tips, serving ideas, and fun variations, this classic dessert is rich, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with pies, brownies, and more.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Plastic wrap
- Ice cream maker
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean or 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
- Pinch salt
Optional Ingredients for Variations:
- ¼ cup cocoa powder for chocolate swirl
- 1 tbsp instant coffee optional
- ¼ cup crushed cookies or brownies
- ½ cup fresh berries or a fruit compote
Instructions
- Prepare the Vanilla Custard Base: In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Split the vanilla bean, scrape out seeds, and add both the seeds and pod. Warm over medium heat until steaming. In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, and salt until smooth.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: Gradually pour 1/2 cup of warm cream mixture into egg yolks, whisking continuously. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the cream. Stir over medium-low heat until custard thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Strain and Chill: Remove saucepan from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Stir in vanilla extract, if using. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (20-30 minutes).
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer to an airtight container, cover with parchment or plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Avoid letting the custard boil to prevent curdling.
- Homemade ice cream may melt faster due to the absence of stabilizers, so enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
Twists and Variations
- Honey Lavender Vanilla Ice Cream: Add 1 tbsp dried lavender to the milk mixture while heating, then strain. Drizzle 2 tbsp honey during churning.
- Salted Caramel Swirl: Add swirls of salted caramel sauce during the last few minutes of churning.
- Citrus Zest Vanilla Ice Cream: Add zest of an orange or lemon to the cream mixture for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Brown Butter Crumble: Fold in a toasted brown butter oat crumble during the last few minutes of churning for a nutty, caramelized texture.
Tips for Perfecting
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vanilla beans or pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Chill the Custard Thoroughly: A well-chilled custard base helps achieve a smoother, creamier texture.
- Freeze Ice Cream Maker Bowl in Advance: Make sure the bowl is frozen solid for best churning results.
- Add Mix-ins with Care: Vanilla is a delicate flavor; mix in add-ins gently to avoid overpowering it.
- Serve Fresh for Best Texture: Homemade ice cream is creamiest and fluffiest when enjoyed fresh.
