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