Homemade Vanilla Milk Ice Cream
There’s nothing quite like the rich, creamy taste of homemade ice cream—especially when it’s infused with the warm, comforting flavor of vanilla. This easy, classic recipe delivers a smooth, indulgent treat using just a few basic ingredients. Perfect for sunny days or anytime you’re craving something sweet and refreshing!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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A pinch of salt
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Instructions:
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, stir the mixture continuously for a few minutes, until the sugar is fully dissolved. This step ensures your ice cream will have a smooth, creamy texture without any graininess. - Chill the Mixture (Optional but Recommended):
For best results, cover the bowl and place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1–2 hours. Chilling the base before churning helps it freeze faster and improves the texture. - Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled mixture into the bowl of your ice cream maker (such as a KitchenAid attachment or any other brand you have). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the ice cream. This usually takes around 20–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture thickens and reaches a soft-serve consistency. - Freeze Until Firm:
Once churning is complete, transfer the soft ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours. This final step allows the ice cream to firm up to the perfect scoopable texture. - Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop your homemade vanilla milk ice cream into bowls, cones, or even use it as a base for milkshakes, sundaes, or ice cream sandwiches. The rich vanilla flavor and creamy texture make it an instant favorite for all ages!
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, try infusing the milk with a split vanilla bean instead of extract—just heat the milk slightly with the bean, let it cool, and strain before using.
- You can also fold in chocolate chips, cookie crumbles, or fruit purée during the last few minutes of churning for a creative twist.
