Recipe Notes
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Directions:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat. Heat the mixture until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until pale and creamy.
Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Once chilled, pour the custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours, or until firm.
Serve the classic vanilla ice cream scoops in cones or bowls and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this classic vanilla ice cream, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowls
Fine-mesh sieve
Ice cream maker
Freezer-safe container
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (although it’s doubtful!), store them in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Homemade ice cream tends to freeze harder than store-bought varieties, so allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Food and Drink Pairings
Classic vanilla ice cream is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of desserts and beverages. Here are a few delicious combinations to try:
Serve scoops of vanilla ice cream alongside warm fruit cobbler or pie for a comforting dessert.
Create an indulgent ice cream sundae with chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
Pair vanilla ice cream with freshly baked cookies for the ultimate ice cream sandwich experience.
For a refreshing treat, make a root beer float by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to a glass of chilled root beer.
FAQ
Can I use vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract?
Yes, you can substitute one vanilla bean for the vanilla extract. Simply split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds and the empty pod to the milk mixture and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?
While an ice cream maker produces the best results, you can still make homemade ice cream without one. Pour the chilled custard into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, remove the dish from the freezer and stir the mixture vigorously to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process until the ice cream is frozen to your desired consistency.
How long will homemade ice cream keep in the freezer?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks of being made. Over time, it may develop ice crystals and lose some of its creamy texture and flavor.
Conclusion
With its rich, creamy texture and irresistible vanilla flavor, this classic vanilla ice cream is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite treats, this homemade delight is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this delicious ice cream today. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration!
