Description
This easy homemade ice cream recipe brings pure happiness to your dessert table with its creamy texture and customizable mix-ins. Using simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract, you can create a delicious frozen treat either with an ice cream maker or by manually freezing and stirring the mixture for a smooth consistency. Perfect for six servings, it allows you to add your favorite chocolate chips, cookies, or fruit for a personalized touch.
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 Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit mix-ins
Instructions
- Combine Sugar, Milk, and Salt: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, whole milk, and a pinch of salt until the sugar has completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth base without graininess.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract to enrich the mixture and infuse it with classic vanilla flavor.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to thoroughly chill the base, which helps achieve creamy texture when frozen.
- Churn or Prepare for Freezing: If using an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions to aerate and freeze evenly. If you don’t have a machine, transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container for manual freezing.
- Stir during Freezing (if no ice cream maker): Freeze the mixture and stir it every 30 minutes over 2 to 3 hours to break up ice crystals and maintain a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Add-ins: When the ice cream reaches a soft-serve texture, fold in optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit to add texture and flavor.
- Freeze Until Firm: Place the ice cream back into the freezer for an additional 2 to 3 hours until it firms up fully.
- Serve: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping and enhanced creaminess.
Notes
- For best results, use whole milk and heavy cream for a rich and creamy texture.
- Refrigerating the mixture before freezing improves texture and flavor blending.
- If you do not have an ice cream maker, frequent stirring during freezing helps prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Experiment with different add-ins like berries, nuts, or candies to customize your ice cream.
- Allowing the ice cream to soften slightly before scooping improves texture and serving ease.
