Spectacular Vanilla Ice Cream
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Spectacular Vanilla Ice Cream, a homemade dessert that elevates simplicity to perfection. This classic recipe combines rich heavy cream, whole milk, and real vanilla bean for an unparalleled depth of flavor, accented by a touch of pure vanilla extract. With a luscious custard base made from egg yolks and a hint of salt, this ice cream achieves the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. The step-by-step method includes tempering egg yolks for a smooth texture and churning in an ice cream maker for a velvety soft-serve consistency. Serve it on its own, or pair it with fresh fruit, brownies, or warm pie for a truly indulgent experience. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in, this homemade vanilla ice cream is sure to become your go-to dessert.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 Vanilla bean
- 5 large Egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
1. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife and scrape out the seeds using the back of the knife. Set both the seeds and the pod aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, half of the granulated sugar (3/8 cup), the vanilla bean seeds, and the pod. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to steam and small bubbles form, but do not let it boil. Remove from heat and let it steep for 10 minutes.
3. While the cream mixture steeps, whisk together the egg yolks, the remaining 3/8 cup of granulated sugar, and salt in a medium bowl until the mixture is pale and creamy.
4. Gradually temper the egg yolk mixture by slowly adding about 1 cup of the warm cream mixture while whisking constantly. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
5. Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (the temperature should reach 170–175°F). Do not let it boil.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the vanilla pod and any lumps.
7. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
8. Once chilled, churn the custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
9. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze it for at least 2 hours to firm up before serving.
10. Scoop and enjoy your Spectacular Vanilla Ice Cream on its own or with your favorite toppings!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2635 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 190.4 g | 244% | |
| Saturated Fat | 108.5 g | 542% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1432 mg | 477% | |
| Sodium | 589 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 166.1 g | 60% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 162.9 g | ||
| Protein | 21.5 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.0 mcg | 25% | |
| Calcium | 416 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 495 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
