Why Vanilla Ice Cream is Special to Me
For me, vanilla ice cream holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of simpler times, like childhood summers spent with family. I remember sitting on the front porch, eating a bowl of homemade vanilla ice cream, and chatting with my parents about our day. It was a treat that brought us together, a moment of indulgence without being overly extravagant. The creamy, comforting flavor of vanilla made every moment feel special, and that simple pleasure has stayed with me over the years.
I also love the versatility of vanilla ice cream. It’s perfect on its own, but it also acts as a fantastic base for all sorts of toppings and mix-ins. As I’ve grown, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with different ways to serve vanilla ice cream—whether it’s drizzled with caramel, topped with fresh berries, or even sandwiched between warm cookies. Each time, I’m reminded of those cozy moments of joy, and the way a small bowl of vanilla ice cream can turn an ordinary day into something memorable.
Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or the seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
Pinch of salt
4 large egg yolks
Cooking Tools / Utensils Needed
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Saucepan
Fine mesh strainer
Ice cream maker (optional, but it helps achieve a creamier texture)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Storage container (for freezing the ice cream)
The Vanilla Ice Cream Making Process
1. Prepare the BaseHeat the Dairy: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
Whisk the Egg Yolks: While the cream mixture is heating, whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl until they become smooth and pale in color.
Temper the Eggs: Once the cream mixture is steaming, slowly pour about a cup of the hot cream into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. This process is called tempering and helps to slowly raise the temperature of the eggs. Once the eggs are warmed up, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
2. Cook the CustardCook the Custard Base: Place the saucepan back over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a spatula until it thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (this usually takes around 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to let the custard come to a boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle.
Strain the Custard: Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg. This ensures a smooth texture.
3. Add Vanilla FlavorAdd the Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract or the scraped seeds from a vanilla bean. The vanilla gives the ice cream its signature flavor, and using a vanilla bean will provide an even more intense, natural taste.
4. Chill the CustardCool the Mixture: Let the custard cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling the mixture ensures it freezes properly in the ice cream maker, resulting in a smoother texture.
5. Churn the Ice CreamChurn the Ice Cream: Once the custard is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on the machine. The ice cream should thicken and become creamy as it churns.
Freeze: After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up. For an extra creamy texture, let it sit in the freezer overnight.
6. Serve and EnjoyScoop and Serve: Once the ice cream is frozen and firm, scoop it into bowls or cones. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings, like chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or fresh fruit.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 270
Protein: 3g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 0g
(Note: The nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts
Vanilla ice cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a comfort food that brings back memories and creates new ones. It’s a versatile treat that can stand on its own or be paired with all sorts of desserts. What makes homemade vanilla ice cream so special is the simple joy of making it yourself, and the reward of enjoying a truly creamy, rich treat.
The beauty of vanilla ice cream is in its simplicity—it’s not overly complicated, but it’s still incredibly indulgent. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just because, vanilla ice cream has the power to turn any moment into something special. So, the next time you're in the mood for something sweet, try making this classic homemade vanilla ice cream. It’s a timeless treat that will always hit the spot.
