Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe: The Creamiest, Most Delicious Vanilla Ever!

There’s something timeless about a scoop of homemade Vanilla Ice Cream. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, with just the right amount of vanilla flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with other treats, this ice cream is an absolute classic that never goes out of style.

For an extra indulgent treat, serve your Vanilla Ice Cream with freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls or top it off with warm, crispy Waffles. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the warm pastries is absolutely irresistible, making this a dessert combination everyone will love.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too):

• Simple and Elegant: Made with just a few ingredients, it’s the purest form of vanilla goodness you can imagine.
• Rich Creaminess: The creamy base creates a smooth, velvety texture that melts perfectly in your mouth.
• Endlessly Versatile: You can mix in extras like chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or even fresh fruit for a twist.

Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

This easy homemade vanilla ice cream is creamy, rich, and wonderfully sweet. Perfect for summer or any time of the year, it’s a classic treat everyone will adore!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Freezing Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 1 gallon

Calories 142 kcal

Equipment

• Ice Cream Maker
• Large mixing bowl
• Airtight container

Ingredients

  

• 2 quarts half-and-half
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• ½ pint heavy cream
• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine half-and-half, sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
  
• Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.
  
• Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker.
  
• Freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20 minutes.
  
• Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container.
  
• Freeze for 4 hours or until firm.
• Scoop, serve, and enjoy your creamy vanilla treat!
  

Nutrition Facts:

Variations You Will Love Trying!

1. Chocolate Chip Vanilla Ice Cream

Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning for a classic treat with a twist.

2. Strawberry Swirl

Puree fresh strawberries and swirl them into the ice cream before transferring to the container. For an extra touch, add some crushed strawberries for texture.

3. Caramel Swirl

Drizzle in homemade or store-bought caramel sauce during the last few minutes of churning for a sweet, buttery flavor.

4. Nutty Vanilla

Stir in 1 cup of chopped roasted nuts (like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts) during the last few minutes of churning for a delightful crunch.

5. Coffee Vanilla

Add 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules or espresso powder to the cream mixture before churning for a coffee-infused vanilla treat.

6. Peach Vanilla Ice Cream

Puree fresh or frozen peaches and swirl them into the ice cream for a fruity, creamy combination. You can also add small peach chunks for more texture.

7. Cinnamon Vanilla

Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the cream mixture for a warm, spiced twist on classic vanilla ice cream.

8. Almond Joy Ice Cream

Add shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning for a fun candy-inspired flavor.

9. Mint Chip Vanilla

Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1 cup of chocolate chips for a refreshing minty ice cream.

10. Orange Creamsicle

Add 2 tablespoons of orange zest and a few tablespoons of fresh orange juice to the mixture for a citrusy, creamy twist.