Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream! 🍦✨ It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Bean (if using):

   • If you’re using a vanilla bean, slice it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Place the seeds and the pod into a saucepan.

2. Heat the Cream and Milk:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it here.
   • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to steam (but don’t let it boil). If you’re using a vanilla bean, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the vanilla to infuse into the milk and cream for about 5 minutes. Then, remove from heat and discard the vanilla pod.

3. Whisk the Egg Yolks:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they become pale and slightly thickened.

4. Temper the Eggs:

   • Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling). Gradually add the remaining cream mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly.

5. Cook the Custard:

   • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (this should take around 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to overcook.

6. Chill the Mixture:

   • Once thickened, remove the custard from heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits.
   • Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

7. Churn the Ice Cream:

   • Once the custard is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes).

8. Freeze to Set:

   • Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up before serving.

Enjoy your homemade, creamy vanilla ice cream! Perfect for enjoying on its own or paired with your favorite desserts! 😋🍦