Recipe Notes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat. Heat the mixture until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until pale and creamy.
- Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, pour the custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Serve the classic vanilla ice cream scoops in cones or bowls and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this classic vanilla ice cream, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Ice cream maker
- Freezer-safe container
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (although it’s doubtful!), store them in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Homemade ice cream tends to freeze harder than store-bought varieties, so allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Food and Drink Pairings
Classic vanilla ice cream is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of desserts and beverages. Here are a few delicious combinations to try:
- Serve scoops of vanilla ice cream alongside warm fruit cobbler or pie for a comforting dessert.
- Create an indulgent ice cream sundae with chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
- Pair vanilla ice cream with freshly baked cookies for the ultimate ice cream sandwich experience.
- For a refreshing treat, make a root beer float by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to a glass of chilled root beer.