This homemade vanilla ice cream is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Made with a custard base and pure vanilla, it’s the perfect classic dessert for any occasion.
Author:Sarah
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks
Instructions
Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and half of the sugar. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
Mix the Egg Yolks: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, the remaining sugar, and salt until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
Temper the Eggs: Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. This tempers the eggs, preventing them from curdling. Slowly whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook the Custard: Continue to cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (170°F to 175°F or 75°C to 80°C on a kitchen thermometer). Do not let it boil.
Add Vanilla and Chill: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract or seeds. Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze to Set: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container, smooth the top, and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Notes
You can use vanilla bean seeds instead of vanilla extract for a richer, more natural vanilla flavor.
For an extra creamy texture, use only egg yolks in the base.
This ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks.