Easy Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Introduction
This easy vanilla ice cream recipe is perfect for home cooks who want a creamy, delicious treat with minimal effort. Using just two simple ingredients, you can enjoy homemade ice cream without any complicated steps or equipment.
Ingredients
- 500g pot of good-quality vanilla custard
- 284ml carton double cream
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, mix the vanilla custard and double cream together thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2 (Using an ice cream machine): Pour the mixture into your ice cream machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream reaches a scoopable consistency. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until ready to serve.
- Step 2 (Without a machine): Pour the mixture into a bowl and place in the freezer for about 90 minutes. Once it starts to freeze around the edges, stir it well to break up ice crystals. Repeat this freezing and stirring process two more times until the mixture is smooth and fully frozen. Transfer to a suitable container and freeze until needed.
Tips & Variations
- Use a high-quality vanilla custard for the best flavor and creaminess.
- For a richer ice cream, chill the cream and custard in the refrigerator before mixing.
- Try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh fruit after the first churn or final stirring.
Storage
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat custard or cream?
Using low-fat versions may affect the creaminess and texture of the ice cream, resulting in a less smooth finish. For best results, use full-fat custard and cream.
How long does it take to churn ice cream by hand?
The hand-churning method takes about 4 to 5 hours total, including freezing and stirring periods, but is a great option if you don’t have an ice cream machine.
Print
Easy Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes (machine) or 5 hours (hand churn)
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
This easy vanilla ice cream recipe uses just two main ingredients—good-quality vanilla custard and double cream—to create a creamy, delicious homemade dessert. Whether you have an ice cream machine or not, you can churn the mixture until smooth and scoopable, then freeze it for a delightful treat anytime.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 500g pot of good-quality vanilla custard
- 284ml carton double cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the vanilla custard with the double cream until well incorporated and smooth.
- Churn in Machine: Pour the mixture into an ice-cream machine and churn until the ice cream reaches a scoopable texture. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on your machine.
- Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, cover it, and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours, or until needed.
- Churn by Hand: If you don’t have an ice-cream machine, pour the mixture into a bowl and place it in the freezer for about 90 minutes, until it starts freezing around the edges.
- Stir to Incorporate Ice Crystals: Remove from freezer, stir the mixture vigorously to break up ice crystals, then return to freezer.
- Repeat Freezing and Stirring: Repeat the freeze-and-stir process two more times (around every 90 minutes) until the ice cream is smooth and fully frozen.
- Final Freeze: Once fully frozen and smooth, store the ice cream in a covered container in the freezer until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use good-quality vanilla custard for the best flavor.
- For creamier texture, ensure the double cream is well chilled before mixing.
- Churning by hand requires patience but still results in creamy ice cream.
- Store ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (using machine) or 4.5 hours (hand-churn including freezing times)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: vanilla ice cream, easy homemade ice cream, creamy vanilla dessert, no eggs ice cream, custard ice cream
