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The Best (and Easiest) Homemade Ice Cream

The Best and Easiest Homemade Ice Cream You’ll Ever Make

The Best (and Easiest) Homemade Ice Cream is a delightful treat that requires just five ingredients and no fancy equipment.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Provides the essential fat content for that luscious, creamy consistency.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Adds volume and strikes the perfect balance with the cream's richness.
For Sweetening and Flavoring
  • ¾ cup Sugar Sweetens the mixture and contributes to a smooth texture.
  • 1 pinch Fine Sea Salt Enhances the flavor beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract Infuses a delightful vanilla flavor.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Ice cream maker
  • Airtight Container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix 1 cup of heavy cream with ¾ cup of sugar and a pinch of fine sea salt. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling, remove it from heat. Whisk in the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a large bowl and let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
  4. Remove the vanilla bean pod if used, whisk the mixture again to ensure smooth consistency, then pour into your ice cream maker.
  5. Churn the mixture in your ice cream maker according to the instructions, typically about 20-25 minutes, until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
  6. Transfer the churned mixture to an airtight container, smoothing the top and pressing parchment paper against the surface. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
  7. Scoop out servings of ice cream and enjoy on its own or with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 150mgSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.2mg

Notes

Chill your mixture for at least 2 hours before churning for a smoother texture. Always use a pinch of salt to enhance flavor, and watch for the right consistency while churning.

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