Luxurious Vanilla Ice Cream
Whole vanilla beans steeped in a custard base give this homemade ice cream a clean, full vanilla flavor that extract alone cannot match. The custard is cooked on the stovetop before churning, which produces a rich, creamy texture. Budget about 45 minutes of active work plus overnight freezing for the best results.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing Bowls
- Ice Cream Maker
- Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream preferably organic
- 1 cup whole milk fresh and cold
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract pure
- 6 pieces egg yolks from large eggs, room temperature
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Make the Custard Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and milk. Whisk occasionally until it starts to steam but doesn't boil.
- Combine Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale yellow and thick.
- Temper the Eggs: Gradually add a ladle of the heated cream mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs.
- Cook the Custard: Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Strain and Chill: Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate until completely chilled.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
- Freeze the Ice Cream: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm before serving.
Notes
- For a flavor twist, consider adding a splash of bourbon or a few vanilla bean seeds for added depth.
- For a leaner version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream.
- Remember, mastering the custard base is the key to luxurious, silky ice cream.
Nutrition
Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 4gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 44mgPotassium: 141mgSugar: 30gVitamin A: 1247IUVitamin C: 0.5mgCalcium: 104mgIron: 0.1mg
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