Classic Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

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Instructions:

1. Heat the Base:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar.
   • Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F (hot but not boiling).
2. Add Vanilla:
   • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Cool and Chill:
   • Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, for best results.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
   • Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze to Harden:
   • Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container.
   • Freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Scoop and savor your homemade vanilla ice cream!

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No Ice Cream Maker? No Problem:

• Pour the chilled mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Freeze for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

This classic recipe yields creamy, delicious vanilla ice cream that’s perfect on its own or paired with your favorite desserts!

Variations and Tips for Classic Vanilla Ice Cream

Variations:

1. Flavor Infusions:
   • Add a vanilla bean pod to the milk and cream mixture while heating for a more intense vanilla flavor. Remove before chilling.
   • Infuse with other flavors like cinnamon sticks, coffee beans, or mint leaves.
2. Mix-ins:
   • Stir in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, chopped nuts, or fruit preserves during the last few minutes of churning.
   • Swirl in caramel or fudge sauce before freezing for a ripple effect.
3. Fruity Twist:
   • Fold in pureed or diced fresh fruits like strawberries, peaches, or mangoes.
4. Dairy-Free Option:
   • Replace heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk. Use a dairy-free sweetener if desired.
5. Low-Sugar Option:
   • Substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute suitable for ice cream.
6. Decadent Additions:
   • Mix in crushed candy bars, toffee pieces, or brownie bits for an indulgent treat.

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Tips for Success:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients:
   • Opt for high-quality cream, milk, and vanilla extract for the best flavor.
2. Chill Thoroughly:
   • Ensure the mixture is completely chilled before churning for a smoother texture.
3. Prevent Ice Crystals:
   • Cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container to minimize ice crystal formation.
4. Pre-Freeze Your Ice Cream Maker Bowl:
   • If using a machine with a freezer bowl, make sure it’s thoroughly frozen before starting.
5. Work Quickly:
   • Transfer the churned ice cream to the freezer promptly to maintain its creamy texture.
6. Serving Tip:
   • Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
7. Storage:
   • Store in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer and consume within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.

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Experiment with these variations and tips to create endless versions of this creamy, classic vanilla ice cream tailored to your preferences!