Vanilla ice cream is a timeless dessert beloved around the world for its creamy texture and delicate flavor.
Making it at home allows you to customize every scoop — from the richness of the custard base to the intensity of the vanilla.
Whether you prefer classic recipes, dairy-free alternatives, or creative flavor twists, homemade vanilla ice cream is surprisingly easy to make and endlessly rewarding.
In this article, we’ve gathered 24+ homemade vanilla ice cream recipes that cater to all tastes and skill levels, so you can find the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends.
24+ Flavorful Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipes to Try Today
Homemade vanilla ice cream is a versatile and delicious treat that brings a sense of joy and accomplishment to your kitchen.
With so many recipes ranging from traditional custard styles to vegan and no-churn versions, there’s truly a vanilla ice cream for everyone.
Experimenting with these recipes allows you to discover your favorite texture and flavor combinations, and the fresh, natural ingredients mean every scoop tastes better than anything store-bought.
So grab your ice cream maker or try a no-churn method, and start creating your own homemade vanilla masterpieces today!
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
This recipe delivers the pure, creamy flavor of old-fashioned vanilla ice cream that reminds you of summer afternoons and homemade desserts.
It’s made with real vanilla extract and a custard base of egg yolks and cream, giving it a silky texture and rich taste.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with pies and cakes, this ice cream is the foundation of countless desserts and a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Warm the Base: Combine milk, 1 cup of cream, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Temper the Eggs: Whisk the egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly add a ladle of hot milk mixture while whisking to prevent curdling. Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan.
Thicken: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling.
Cool the Mixture: Strain the custard into a bowl, stir in the remaining cream and vanilla extract. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Churn and Freeze: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn as per manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
Creamy, rich, and filled with the unmistakable warmth of vanilla, this classic ice cream is perfect for everything from sundaes to floats.
Making it at home ensures freshness and control over ingredients, and the result is a luxurious dessert that’s always in style.
No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream
This no-churn version is a lifesaver when you want homemade ice cream without the hassle of a machine.
It’s incredibly simple yet produces a surprisingly smooth and creamy dessert.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this is the perfect way to enjoy a cool treat without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
Fold and Flavor: Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
Freeze: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth the top, cover, and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
With a soft, scoopable texture and classic flavor, this no-churn vanilla ice cream rivals traditional versions.
It’s perfect for busy days or beginner cooks, and you can easily customize it with mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or caramel swirls.
It’s proof that delicious results don’t always require complicated steps.
French Vanilla Ice Cream
French Vanilla Ice Cream is the epitome of indulgence, made with a custard base that includes egg yolks for an ultra-creamy, almost luxurious texture.
This style is richer and more decadent than standard vanilla, making it a standout choice for elegant desserts or enjoying on its own.
The deep flavor comes from infusing the mixture with real vanilla, making each bite unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
Instructions:
Infuse the Vanilla: Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both seeds and pod to a saucepan with milk and half the cream.
Heat until just simmering, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
Whisk the Yolks: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until light in color. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly.
Cook the Custard: Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thick enough to coat a spoon. Do not boil.
Cool and Churn: Strain into a bowl, stir in the remaining cream, and cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator, then churn in an ice cream maker.
Freeze until set.
French vanilla ice cream has a luscious texture and pronounced depth of flavor that sets it apart from simpler varieties. Ideal for pairing with fruit tarts, molten cakes, or espresso, this ice cream elevates any dessert it touches.
Making it at home brings a taste of gourmet indulgence right to your freezer.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a premium version of the classic favorite, using whole vanilla beans to infuse the base with a deeper, more complex flavor.
The tiny black specks throughout the ice cream are a mark of true quality, signaling the use of real vanilla rather than extract alone.
This recipe is ideal for showcasing in elegant desserts or serving with seasonal fruit, offering a rich and aromatic experience in every scoop.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean
- 5 egg yolks
Instructions:
Infuse the Vanilla: Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds.
Add seeds and pod to a saucepan with milk, cream, and half the sugar. Heat until steaming, then remove from heat and let sit for 15 minutes.
Mix the Yolks: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
Combine and Cook: Slowly whisk the warm milk mixture into the yolks. Return the custard to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Strain and Chill: Strain into a bowl, discard the vanilla pod, and chill for several hours or overnight.
Churn and Freeze: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until creamy. Freeze until firm.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream offers a sophisticated, layered flavor that truly shines.
It’s the kind of dessert that makes a statement with its simplicity, capturing the essence of high-quality ingredients and careful technique.
Eggless Vanilla Ice Cream
Eggless Vanilla Ice Cream is perfect for those who prefer a lighter, allergen-friendly option without compromising on taste or texture.
Using cornstarch as a thickener, this recipe skips the eggs but still achieves a creamy consistency that scoops beautifully.
It’s ideal for anyone seeking a fuss-free and delicious homemade dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
Create the Base: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with ¼ cup of milk to form a slurry. In a saucepan, combine the rest of the milk, cream, and sugar. Heat until steaming.
Thicken the Mixture: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and slightly glossy.
Add Vanilla and Chill: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold.
Churn and Freeze: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn. Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
This eggless version delivers everything you love about vanilla ice cream in a more approachable, lighter form.
It’s creamy, satisfying, and wonderfully smooth—proof that great taste doesn’t have to come with complexity.
Honey Vanilla Ice Cream
Honey Vanilla Ice Cream brings a subtle floral sweetness to the traditional flavor profile, replacing some of the sugar with natural honey.
The result is a richer, more nuanced dessert with earthy undertones and a soft, luxurious mouthfeel.
This is a great choice for pairing with roasted fruits, grilled peaches, or as an elegant stand-alone scoop.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Heat the Base: Combine cream, milk, honey, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until honey and sugar are fully dissolved.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
Chill and Churn: Refrigerate the mixture for several hours. Once cold, churn in an ice cream maker until creamy.
Freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for several hours before serving.
Honey Vanilla Ice Cream adds a beautiful depth and complexity to a classic treat.
The honey’s unique sweetness pairs beautifully with vanilla, offering a luxurious twist that elevates the dessert from ordinary to exceptional.
Philadelphia-Style Vanilla Ice Cream
Philadelphia-Style Vanilla Ice Cream is known for its simplicity and clean flavor. Unlike custard-based recipes, this version skips the eggs, allowing the cream and vanilla to truly shine.
Its quick preparation and light, silky texture make it perfect for those who prefer a fresher, less-rich ice cream with all the classic flavor intact.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
Chill the Base: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
Churn: Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Freeze: Transfer to a container and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.
This recipe results in a refreshingly smooth ice cream that’s light yet flavorful.
It’s the perfect choice for when you want a quick, no-fuss homemade ice cream without sacrificing that creamy vanilla taste.
Coconut Milk Vanilla Ice Cream
Coconut Milk Vanilla Ice Cream is a dreamy, dairy-free dessert option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or creaminess.
The subtle tropical undertone from the coconut milk pairs beautifully with pure vanilla, offering a luscious alternative for those avoiding dairy.
It’s smooth, satisfying, and a great canvas for mix-ins like chocolate chips or berries.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk
- ¾ cup sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Blend the Base: In a blender or mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved.
Chill: Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until well chilled.
Churn: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until creamy.
Freeze: Scoop into a container and freeze until firm.
This coconut milk-based vanilla ice cream is a creamy, indulgent treat with a twist.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for a non-dairy dessert that still offers that comforting, classic vanilla flavor with a touch of the tropics.
Maple Vanilla Ice Cream
Maple Vanilla Ice Cream brings together the warm, earthy sweetness of real maple syrup with the aromatic depth of vanilla.
This combination results in a unique, cozy ice cream flavor that’s particularly delightful in the cooler months, though it’s delicious any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Heat the Base: In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, maple syrup, sugar, and salt. Heat until warm, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Cool and Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator.
Churn: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until thick and creamy.
Freeze: Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
Maple Vanilla Ice Cream offers a rich and comforting flavor that stands out from traditional vanilla.
The natural sweetness of maple syrup gives it a mellow, caramel-like depth, making it ideal for pairing with pecans, waffles, or even apple pie.
Brown Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream
Brown Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream puts a cozy twist on the classic by using brown sugar instead of white, giving it a warm, caramel-like depth.
The molasses notes of the brown sugar blend beautifully with vanilla, resulting in a creamy dessert with a more complex flavor profile.
It’s a great option when you want something familiar yet just a bit different.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Warm the Mixture: Combine cream, milk, and brown sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring, until sugar is dissolved and mixture is warm.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. Let cool to room temperature.
Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for several hours or overnight.
Churn and Freeze: Pour into your ice cream maker and churn until soft and creamy.
Freeze until firm.
This variation adds a subtle richness that’s both indulgent and inviting.
Brown sugar brings a mellow, toffee-like sweetness that enhances the vanilla without overpowering it—perfect for pairing with pies, cookies, or a drizzle of caramel.
Greek Yogurt Vanilla Ice Cream
Greek Yogurt Vanilla Ice Cream is a lighter, tangy alternative to traditional recipes.
The yogurt adds a pleasant tanginess and creamy body, while the vanilla keeps it classic and comforting.
It’s refreshing and slightly tart, offering a balance that’s perfect for those who like their sweets with a twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup honey or granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Blend the Base: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, cream, honey or sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours.
Churn: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until thick and creamy.
Freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until set.
This yogurt-based ice cream is creamy and rich but with a tangy, refreshing flavor that sets it apart.
It’s ideal for summer desserts or for those looking for a slightly healthier treat with a bright flavor and a satisfyingly smooth texture.
Almond Milk Vanilla Ice Cream
Almond Milk Vanilla Ice Cream is a fantastic dairy-free option that still delivers a silky texture and lovely vanilla flavor. Though lighter than cream-based ice cream, the almond milk provides a gentle nuttiness that complements the vanilla beautifully.
It’s perfect for vegans or anyone looking for a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Combine and Heat: In a saucepan, whisk almond milk, coconut milk, sweetener, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until thickened slightly.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool completely.
Chill and Churn: Refrigerate the mixture for a few hours, then churn in an ice cream maker until smooth and creamy.
Freeze: Pour into a container and freeze until firm.
This almond milk-based version is refreshing and smooth, with a soft, delicate vanilla flavor.
It’s a great option for those avoiding dairy and offers a beautifully light dessert experience with a touch of natural nuttiness.
Vanilla Cashew Ice Cream
Vanilla Cashew Ice Cream is a dairy-free and luxuriously creamy dessert that uses soaked cashews as the base. Cashews blend into a rich, velvety texture that mimics traditional cream, while vanilla adds a familiar and comforting flavor.
his plant-based treat is naturally sweetened and incredibly satisfying, even for those who usually prefer dairy options.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or overnight)
- 1½ cups water
- ½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for extra richness)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Blend the Base: Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a blender with water, maple syrup, vanilla, coconut oil (if using), and salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Chill: Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours.
Churn: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until thick and smooth.
Freeze: Scoop into a container and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until firm.
This cashew-based ice cream is rich and dreamy, with a clean vanilla flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a plant-based dessert that feels indulgent and nourishing at the same time.
Spiced Vanilla Ice Cream
Spiced Vanilla Ice Cream adds a subtle twist to the classic by incorporating warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These cozy notes enhance the vanilla beautifully, offering a comforting, aromatic dessert that pairs perfectly with fall desserts like apple pie or baked pears.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 5 egg yolks
Instructions:
Heat the Base: In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat until warm, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Temper the Yolks: Whisk egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly add a bit of the warm milk mixture to the yolks, then return it all to the saucepan.
Cook: Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Chill and Churn: Strain the custard, refrigerate until fully chilled, then churn in an ice cream maker.
Freeze: Pour into a container and freeze until firm.
This spiced variation is cozy, aromatic, and just unique enough to surprise your taste buds.
It’s a wonderful alternative to plain vanilla when you want something a bit warmer and more nuanced.
Vanilla Oat Milk Ice Cream
Vanilla Oat Milk Ice Cream is a creamy, allergy-friendly option that’s free from dairy, nuts, and eggs. Oat milk provides a naturally sweet, neutral base with a smooth consistency that holds up beautifully in frozen desserts.
t’s light, easy to digest, and still deliciously comforting.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oat milk (full-fat or barista blend preferred)
- 1 cup coconut cream or coconut milk
- ½ cup sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for creaminess)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Base: In a saucepan, whisk oat milk, coconut cream, sugar, salt, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken slightly.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely.
Chill and Churn: Refrigerate until fully chilled. Churn in an ice cream maker until smooth.
Freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until set.
This oat milk ice cream is soft, creamy, and gently sweet, with a beautiful vanilla flavor.
It’s ideal for those with multiple dietary restrictions, offering a wholesome and delicious frozen dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Vanilla Bean and Honey Ice Cream
Vanilla Bean and Honey Ice Cream combines the fragrant aroma of real vanilla beans with the natural sweetness of honey.
The honey adds a subtle floral note that complements the creamy custard base, making this ice cream uniquely rich and soothing.
It’s a refined take on vanilla that’s perfect for elegant desserts or a simple, satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup honey
- 1 vanilla bean
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Infuse Vanilla: Split the vanilla bean and scrape the seeds into a saucepan with the milk and cream.
Heat until steaming, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
Whisk Yolks: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add warm milk mixture to yolks, whisking constantly.
Cook Custard: Return mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Add Honey and Chill: Remove from heat, stir in honey until dissolved, strain, and chill thoroughly.
Churn and Freeze: Churn in an ice cream maker until creamy, then freeze until firm.
This ice cream is silky smooth with a delicate balance of vanilla and honey, offering a sophisticated flavor that’s both comforting and elegant.
Brown Butter Vanilla Ice Cream
Brown Butter Vanilla Ice Cream elevates classic vanilla by incorporating nutty, toasted brown butter into the base.
The caramelized butter flavor adds depth and complexity, turning an ordinary scoop into a gourmet experience.
This ice cream pairs wonderfully with desserts featuring nuts, caramel, or chocolate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Brown the Butter: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and cook until golden brown and fragrant.
Warm the Base: Add milk and cream to the browned butter and heat until steaming.
Temper the Yolks: Whisk egg yolks and sugar. Slowly add hot milk mixture to yolks, whisking constantly.
Cook Custard: Return mixture to the saucepan, cook until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Chill and Churn: Strain, refrigerate until cold, churn in ice cream maker, and freeze until firm.
The toasty, rich flavor of brown butter combined with vanilla creates an indulgent and memorable ice cream that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Vanilla Lavender Ice Cream
Vanilla Lavender Ice Cream adds a delicate floral note to traditional vanilla, infusing the custard base with fragrant lavender buds.
This ethereal combination creates a unique and calming dessert experience, ideal for spring and summer gatherings or whenever you want something fresh and elegant.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Infuse Lavender: Heat cream, milk, and lavender in a saucepan until steaming. Remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes.
Strain and Warm: Strain out lavender buds, then gently reheat the mixture.
Temper the Yolks: Whisk yolks and sugar, slowly add warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
Cook Custard: Cook over medium heat until thickened.
Add Vanilla and Chill: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, chill thoroughly.
Churn and Freeze: Churn in ice cream maker until creamy and freeze until firm.
This ice cream is beautifully floral and smooth, with a subtle vanilla base that allows the lavender to shine.
It’s a perfect dessert for those seeking something light, fragrant, and a bit unexpected.
Vanilla Cardamom Ice Cream
Vanilla Cardamom Ice Cream blends the warm, spicy notes of cardamom with the creamy sweetness of vanilla.
This aromatic pairing gives the ice cream a subtle exotic flair, making it an exciting twist on a classic flavor. It’s perfect for those who enjoy desserts with a bit of spice and complexity.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 5 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Infuse the Cream: Combine cream, milk, sugar, and crushed cardamom pods in a saucepan. Heat until steaming, then remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes.
Strain and Warm: Strain out cardamom pods, gently reheat the mixture.
Temper the Yolks: Whisk egg yolks, slowly add warm cream mixture while whisking.
Cook Custard: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Add Vanilla and Chill: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, chill thoroughly.
Churn and Freeze: Churn in an ice cream maker until creamy, then freeze until firm.
This ice cream offers a fragrant, spicy undertone balanced by vanilla’s sweetness—a perfect way to add depth to a familiar treat.
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream uses coconut milk and natural sweeteners to create a creamy, dairy-free dessert with all the comfort of traditional vanilla ice cream.
It’s rich, smooth, and suitable for vegans or anyone looking for a plant-based alternative.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Churn: Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.
Freeze: Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
This vegan version delivers a rich coconut flavor that complements the vanilla perfectly, offering a satisfying dessert free from dairy and eggs.
Vanilla Black Pepper Ice Cream
Vanilla Black Pepper Ice Cream is an adventurous twist that balances sweet vanilla with a mild kick of freshly ground black pepper.
The pepper adds a surprising warmth and complexity, making this ice cream both intriguing and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions:
Heat Cream Mixture: Combine cream, milk, sugar, and black pepper in a saucepan. Heat until steaming, then remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
Temper the Yolks: Whisk egg yolks and slowly add warm cream mixture while whisking.
Cook Custard: Return to heat and cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
Add Vanilla and Chill: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, strain, and chill thoroughly.
Churn and Freeze: Churn in an ice cream maker and freeze until firm.
This unexpected combination enhances the sweetness of vanilla with subtle spice, perfect for those seeking a bold new flavor experience.
Conclusion
Exploring these 24+ homemade vanilla ice cream recipes opens up a world of creamy possibilities.
Whether you’re looking for a quick no-churn recipe, a rich French vanilla custard, or a dairy-free alternative, these recipes offer something for every palate and dietary need.
Homemade ice cream not only tastes incredible but also lets you control the quality of ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial flavors.
Take your time, savor the process, and enjoy the satisfaction of making a classic dessert from scratch that will bring smiles to any occasion.