How to Make Ice Cream: Simple 4-Ingredient Vanilla Recipe

How to Make Ice Cream: Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Looking for a foolproof guide on how to make ice cream that delivers a rich and creamy vanilla flavor? This easy DIY homemade vanilla ice cream recipe uses pure vanilla extract and just four basic ingredients for the ultimate summer treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 4 simple ingredients—no fancy equipment needed
• Rich & creamy texture thanks to full-fat milk and heavy cream
• Endless customization: add chocolate chips, fruit swirls, or nuts!
• Perfect for backyard barbecues, kid-friendly, and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients for Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

• 2.25 cups whole milk
• 2.25 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions: How to Make Ice Cream at Home

1. Chill equipment: Place your ice cream maker’s bowl in the freezer for at least 15 minutes until fully frozen.

2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the pure vanilla extract for that classic vanilla bean flavor.

3. Churn: Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 20–25 minutes). You’ll see it thicken into a soft-serve consistency.

4. Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Quick soft-serve: Serve immediately after churning for a creamy soft-serve treat.
• Add fresh berries in the last 5 minutes of churn for fruity swirl.
• Swap vanilla extract for mint extract and drop in chocolate chips for a mint-chocolate twist.
• For a thicker custard style, whisk in 2 egg yolks with the sugar in step 2 (cook gently before chilling).

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 425 kcal | Carbs: 46 g | Fat: 25 g | Saturated Fat: 15 g | Protein: 6 g | Sugar: 44 g | Cholesterol: 93 mg | Sodium: 79 mg

Now you know how to make ice cream that rivals any scoop shop in flavor and creaminess!