Description
This easy homemade ice cream recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time to create a creamy, delicious treat. Whether you have an ice cream maker or not, you can enjoy smooth, customizable ice cream with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit. Perfect for a refreshing dessert any time of the year.
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 Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit mix-ins
Instructions
- Mix Sugar, Milk, and Salt: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, and salt until the sugar is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth base.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract to combine all the creamy ingredients.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until well chilled, which helps in the freezing process.
- Churn or Freeze: If using an ice cream maker, churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If not, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container for manual freezing.
- Manual Freezing Process: When freezing without a machine, stir the mixture every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals and maintain creaminess.
- Add Mix-ins: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies for extra texture and flavor.
- Freeze Until Firm: Freeze the ice cream for an additional 2-3 hours, or until it firms up completely.
- Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping and serving to soften slightly for perfect texture.
Notes
- For best results, use an ice cream maker if available to achieve a smoother texture.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, frequent stirring during freezing is key to prevent large ice crystals.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins such as nuts, candies, or fresh fruit.
- Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- Letting the ice cream soften slightly before serving improves scoopability and flavor.
