Learn how to make rich, creamy homemade vanilla ice cream from scratch with this easy-to-follow guide. Control ingredients and flavor for a perfect treat.
2 cups Heavy Cream
1 cup Whole Milk
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
5 large Egg Yolks
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
Prepare the Dairy Blend. Begin by gently heating the rich cream and dairy liquid in a pot over medium heat. Do not let it boil.
Temper the Yolks. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks with the granulated sweetener until light and creamy. Gradually add a small amount of the warm dairy blend to the yolk mixture, whisking constantly. This tempering prevents the yolks from scrambling.
Cook the Base. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the pot with the remaining warm dairy. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon.
Infuse Flavor. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the pure flavor enhancer. For a deeper taste, consider using a scraped vanilla pod.
Cool Thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for at least four hours, or preferably overnight, until it is completely cool. This ensures a smoother final product.
Process the Mixture. Pour the cooled base into your frozen dessert maker. Process according to the manufacturer’s directions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Freeze to Firmness. Transfer the churned mixture to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for an additional 2-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired firmness. Enjoy your homemade frozen delight!