Dive into this foolproof, creamy ice cream recipe that uses just four simple ingredients to deliver a luscious, velvety texture. With no need for an ice cream maker, this recipe guarantees delicious results and generous servings. Perfect for any occasion, it’s the ideal dessert to whip up with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (cold)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Chill the Ingredients and Bowl:
Before starting, ensure your heavy whipping cream and sweetened condensed milk are chilled. Place a large mixing bowl in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to make whipping the cream easier and faster. - Whip the Heavy Cream:
Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This usually takes 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overwhip, as it can turn into butter. - Prepare the Base:
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth. The salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness. - Fold the Cream and Base Together:
Gradually add the whipped cream to the condensed milk mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the cream into the base in batches. Avoid stirring vigorously to keep the mixture light and airy. Continue until no streaks of cream remain, creating a silky, uniform mixture. - Transfer to a Container:
Pour the combined mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface. For extra texture or flavor, you can fold in optional add-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit at this stage. - Cover and Freeze:
Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer and allow the ice cream to set for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best consistency. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once fully frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy texture. Store any leftovers in the freezer for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
Pro Tips:
- Experiment with flavors by substituting the vanilla extract with almond, mint, or other flavored extracts.
- Add fun toppings like caramel sauce, sprinkles, or nuts for an extra-special treat.
- To scoop easily, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
This simple recipe yields a generous amount of creamy, flavorful ice cream that will impress anyone who tries it. With minimal ingredients and no need for fancy equipment, you can enjoy homemade ice cream that rivals store-bought varieties.