Making ice cream at home has never been easier! This simple recipe combines creamy textures and rich flavors to deliver the ultimate homemade treat. With just a few basic ingredients and a no-fuss process, you can whip up a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Say goodbye to store-bought ice cream and hello to your new favorite recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of heavy cream (chilled)
- 1 cup of whole milk (chilled)
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- Optional mix-ins (chocolate chips, fruit pieces, nuts, or caramel)
Instructions:
- Start by preparing a large mixing bowl. Ensure all your ingredients are chilled to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Pour the heavy cream and whole milk into the mixing bowl. Using a hand whisk or an electric mixer, blend them on medium speed until fully combined.
- Gradually add the sugar while mixing. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to distribute the flavor evenly. If you prefer other flavors, this is the step where you can add a few drops of food-grade flavoring like mint or almond.
- Once the base mixture is ready, pour it into a shallow, freezer-safe container. If desired, fold in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts. Be careful not to overmix as this could deflate the creamy texture.
- Cover the container with a tight-fitting lid or wrap it securely with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Place the container in the freezer and allow it to freeze for about 2 hours. After this, remove the container and give the mixture a gentle stir to break up any ice crystals.
- Return the container to the freezer and repeat this process every 30 minutes for the next 2 hours. This step ensures a smooth and creamy texture without the need for an ice cream maker.
- Once the ice cream is fully set (about 6 hours in total), it’s ready to serve. Scoop it into bowls or cones and garnish with your favorite toppings like sprinkles, syrup, or fresh fruit.
Enjoy this homemade ice cream recipe, a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Try experimenting with various mix-ins and flavors to create a unique dessert every time!