Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice has been my go-to dessert since I was a kid, bringing back memories of sunny afternoons and my grandma’s kitchen. There’s something truly magical about the creamy, velvety texture and that pure, sweet vanilla flavor that just can’t be beaten. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I remember the anticipation of churning it, the sweet aroma filling the air, and that first spoonful of rich, cold goodness. Learning how to make old fashioned vanilla ice cream was a game-changer for my dessert game, and it’s so much better than anything store-bought. It truly is a classic vanilla ice cream experience. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. Get ready to fall in love!

The taste is unbelievably rich and pure, a true celebration of vanilla.
It delivers that dreamy, creamy vanilla ice cream texture you crave.
Prep time is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy the process.
It’s wonderfully budget-friendly compared to store-bought gourmet options.
It’s a fantastic way to create new memories with your family.
The simple ingredients come together for an authentic, creamy vanilla ice cream experience.
Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every spoonful.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners!

Ingredients for Authentic Vanilla Ice Cream

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step in creating a truly traditional vanilla ice cream recipe. The quality of your vanilla and dairy really shines through here.

2 cups heavy cream – This is key for that rich, luscious texture.
1 cup whole milk – Balances the richness of the cream for a perfect custard base.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the ice cream and helps create a smooth texture.
5 large egg yolks – These create a velvety custard that makes the ice cream incredibly creamy.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Use the best you can find for that pure, distinct flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (optional) – For an even more intense, authentic vanilla flavor.
Ice and rock salt for churning (if using traditional ice cream maker) – Essential for the freezing process in older machines.

How to Make Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a medium saucepan. Combine the 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and about half of the 1 cup granulated sugar in the saucepan. If you’re using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, adding both the pod and seeds to the cream mixture. Gently heat this over medium heat until it just starts to steam. You want it hot, but definitely not boiling – watch it closely!
Step 2: In a separate, heatproof bowl, whisk together the 5 large egg yolks with the remaining 1 cup granulated sugar and the 1/4 teaspoon salt. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes pale yellow and slightly thickened. This process, known as tempering, is crucial for a smooth custard base.
Step 3: Now for the tempering! Very slowly, drizzle about half a cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This gradually raises the temperature of the yolks without scrambling them. Once combined, pour this tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream.
Step 4: Return the saucepan to low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, making sure to scrape the bottom. Continue cooking and stirring until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of your spoon – this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. It’s vital that it doesn’t boil, or your custard will curdle.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat. For the smoothest result, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. If you used a vanilla bean, discard the pod now. Stir in the 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. This is where that amazing aroma really starts to fill your kitchen, a sure sign of delicious homemade vanilla ice cream.
Step 6: Let the custard cool to room temperature. Once it’s no longer warm, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. The longer it chills, the creamier your homemade vanilla ice cream will be. Once thoroughly chilled, churn it in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After churning, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze until firm. Enjoy your truly homemade vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips for the Best Rich Vanilla Ice Cream

Want to elevate your homemade ice cream from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee a truly superior scoop.

Always use high-quality dairy – the difference in flavor for your rich vanilla ice cream is astounding.
Chill your custard base for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor development.
If you’re not using a vanilla bean, ensure your vanilla extract is pure, not imitation, for that authentic taste.
Don’t overcook the custard; stopping when it just coats the spoon prevents a grainy texture.

What’s the secret to perfect old fashioned vanilla ice cream?

The secret lies in the custard base and proper chilling. Tempering the egg yolks correctly and ensuring the base is thoroughly cold before churning are crucial for that incredibly smooth, nostalgic vanilla ice cream texture. For more on the science of ice cream making, check out this guide.

Can I make old fashioned vanilla ice cream ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the custard base up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Churning can also be done a day or two before serving to allow it to firm up properly in the freezer.

How do I avoid common mistakes with homemade vanilla ice cream?

Avoid cooking the custard too hot, as this can scramble the eggs. Also, make sure your ice cream maker bowl is completely frozen, as a too-warm bowl won’t churn efficiently, leading to icy results. Learn more about common ice cream pitfalls.

Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice: Deliciously Creamy 2 Ways - Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Classic Vanilla Ice Cream

This versatile classic vanilla ice cream is a perfect canvas for so many delicious pairings! It’s wonderful on its own, but I love serving it warm apple pie or crumbles. The contrast between the warm, spiced fruit and the cold, creamy ice cream is just divine. Another favorite is a simple scoop alongside a rich chocolate lava cake – the gooey center and the cool vanilla are a match made in heaven. Don’t forget about fruit crisp or even a freshly baked brownie; the possibilities are endless! For more dessert inspiration, explore these delicious recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of this delightful homemade ice cream:

Calories: 290
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 45mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 5g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Understanding the nutritional impact of your food is important, and you can find more information on healthy eating.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream

Properly storing your delightful homemade ice cream is key to enjoying its creamy texture and pure vanilla flavor for longer. Once your old fashioned vanilla ice cream is churned and firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. For the best storage results, transfer it to an airtight container. I like to press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the lid to prevent ice crystals. This helps maintain that wonderful, smooth consistency. You can keep your delicious ice cream in the freezer for up to 3 months. While reheating isn’t typically necessary for ice cream, if it becomes too hard, a brief moment on the counter or a quick zap in the microwave on the defrost setting (just a few seconds!) can help soften it for easier scooping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traditional Vanilla Ice Cream

What makes this a traditional vanilla ice cream recipe?

This recipe uses a classic custard base made with egg yolks, cream, and milk, which is the hallmark of traditional ice cream. It focuses on pure vanilla flavor without any added mix-ins, ensuring the authentic taste that defines a traditional vanilla ice cream recipe.

Can I use a different type of milk?

While whole milk is recommended for richness, you can experiment with 2% milk if needed, but it might result in a slightly less creamy texture. Using skim milk is not advised as it lacks the fat necessary for that classic, smooth mouthfeel. For tips on dairy alternatives, see this resource.

How do I get the smoothest texture?

The key to a smooth texture is ensuring your custard base is thoroughly chilled before churning. The longer it chills, the better it incorporates air and the less likely it is to form large ice crystals. Also, don’t over-churn; stop when it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?

No worries! You can still achieve a delicious result. Pour the chilled custard into a shallow freezer-safe container. Every 30-45 minutes for the first 2-3 hours, stir vigorously with a fork or whisk to break up ice crystals. Then freeze until firm. It takes a bit more effort but is worth it!

Variations of Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you can easily customize this recipe to create even more delightful frozen treats. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your journey to gourmet vanilla ice cream.

Dietary Variation: For a dairy-free version, try substituting the heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. The result is surprisingly rich and creamy!
Flavor Boost: Infuse your custard base with other flavors before churning. Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint, a swirl of caramel sauce, or even some finely grated lemon zest for a unique twist.
No-Churn Method: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, whip the chilled custard base with an electric mixer until it forms soft peaks, then fold in whipped cream. Freeze in a loaf pan until firm.
Boozy Twist: Add a tablespoon or two of a complementary liqueur, like bourbon or rum, to the base before churning. The alcohol helps prevent the ice cream from freezing too hard, resulting in a softer scoop.

Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice: Deliciously Creamy 2 Ways

Author: Ennas Lopez
Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream recipe creates a dreamy, creamy, and velvety dessert with pure vanilla flavor, reminiscent of childhood favorites. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar
5 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (optional)
Ice and rock salt for churning (if using traditional ice cream maker)

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the sugar. If using, add the split vanilla bean and seeds. Heat over medium heat until just steaming, but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt until pale and slightly thickened.
Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 8-10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Stir in vanilla extract. Discard vanilla bean pod if used.
Cool the mixture to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until thoroughly chilled. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze until firm before serving.

Notes

For a truly decadent flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract or a real vanilla bean.
If you don’t own an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe using the freeze-and-stir method.
Let your custard base chill thoroughly for a smoother texture and easier churning.
Chill your ice cream maker bowl overnight for faster, creamier results.
Don’t rush the chilling process—an extra-cold base produces a smoother scoop.
For extra richness, substitute 1/2 cup of milk with heavy cream.
Store your homemade vanilla ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For best taste and texture, enjoy within 2 weeks.
To prevent ice crystals, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Ice Cream Making
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 290 calories
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice, Classic vanilla ice cream, Traditional vanilla ice cream recipe, Homemade vanilla ice cream, Rich vanilla ice cream, Creamy vanilla ice cream, Nostalgic vanilla ice cream