Making your own vanilla ice cream at home is easier than you might think, and the results are far superior to anything store-bought. This classic vanilla ice cream is creamy, rich, and bursting with the authentic flavor of pure vanilla. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious frozen treat that’s perfect on its own or as a base for your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Continue whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved. This may take a few minutes, so be patient; it’s important that the sugar is completely incorporated to achieve a smooth texture in your ice cream.
2. Add the Vanilla
Once the sugar is dissolved, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until the vanilla is evenly distributed throughout the cream mixture. The quality of the vanilla extract is key here; using pure vanilla extract will give your ice cream a rich, authentic vanilla flavor.
3. Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. Chilling the mixture ensures that it will churn more efficiently in the ice cream maker and will help prevent ice crystals from forming.
4. Churn the Ice Cream
Once the mixture is well chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this will involve churning the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream
After churning, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container. Place the container in the freezer and let the ice cream firm up for at least 2-4 hours. For a firmer texture, you can freeze it overnight.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy the creamy, delicious taste of homemade vanilla ice cream. You can also top it with your favorite sauces, fruits, or nuts for an extra treat.
