Vanilla ice cream is a timeless favorite loved by dessert enthusiasts around the world.
Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with pies, or swirled with decadent toppings, the smooth, creamy flavor of vanilla offers endless possibilities.
For those who love making ice cream at home, having a collection of reliable vanilla ice cream maker recipes is essential.
From classic custard bases to creative twists like bourbon or lavender infusions, these recipes showcase the versatility of vanilla and the joy of homemade ice cream.
In this article, we’ll explore 23+ vanilla ice cream maker recipes that suit all tastes and occasions, making your next scoop truly unforgettable.
23+ Delicious Vanilla Ice Cream Maker Recipes to Try at Home
Homemade vanilla ice cream is more than just a dessert—it’s an opportunity to experiment with flavors, textures, and ingredients that store-bought versions can’t match.
With so many recipes available, from simple no-egg versions to custard-rich delights and creative infusions like cardamom or brown butter, there’s a vanilla ice cream recipe for everyone.
By using an ice cream maker, you can achieve that perfect creamy consistency that turns every bite into a blissful experience.
So grab your ice cream maker, choose a recipe that excites you, and start crafting your own batch of vanilla magic.
classic vanilla ice cream
This recipe from Simply Recipes is a traditional custard-based ice cream that delivers the rich, creamy texture that defines true vanilla ice cream.
Made with egg yolks, heavy cream, and real vanilla extract, it’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes just like the kind you’d find in old-fashioned ice cream parlors.
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, this is your go-to.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
Slowly pour a bit of the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. Then pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Chill thoroughly, then churn in your ice cream maker as directed.
This ice cream is luxuriously smooth, thanks to the egg yolk base, and the vanilla flavor shines beautifully.
It’s a perfect base for toppings or mix-ins, but also rich enough to be enjoyed completely on its own.
easy vanilla ice cream
This no-cook vanilla ice cream from Add a Pinch is one of the simplest ice cream recipes around, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
It skips the eggs and cooking process entirely, making it a fantastic choice for beginners or those short on time.
Despite its simplicity, it still produces creamy, flavorful results that satisfy any sweet tooth.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
This recipe is ideal for quick homemade ice cream without sacrificing flavor or creaminess.
It’s incredibly versatile, and its straightforward preparation makes it a go-to recipe for summer afternoons or last-minute dessert needs.
french vanilla ice cream
Inspired by David Lebovitz, this French-style vanilla ice cream is indulgent and flavorful, crafted with a custard base that’s deepened with egg yolks and steeped with a real vanilla bean.
The result is an elegant, almost buttery ice cream with a complexity that elevates it beyond the ordinary.
It’s the kind of dessert that turns a simple scoop into a luxurious treat.
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Warm the milk, sugar, salt, and the seeds and pod of the vanilla bean in a saucepan. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes.
Rewarm the mixture and strain out the vanilla pod.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add the warm milk to the yolks while whisking, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
Stir over medium heat until thickened.
Strain the custard into the cream, add vanilla extract, and chill. Once cold, churn in an ice cream maker.
With its silkier texture and richer flavor, this version of vanilla ice cream stands out for its depth and elegance.
It’s ideal for pairing with fruit, pies, or enjoyed as a refined standalone dessert.
creamy no-egg vanilla ice cream
This recipe from Joy of Baking skips eggs but still achieves a rich and creamy texture using a combination of heavy cream and whole milk.
It’s a wonderful option if you want the luscious mouthfeel of custard ice cream but prefer to avoid eggs for simplicity or dietary reasons.
The vanilla flavor is pure and pronounced, making it a classic favorite.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Combine the cream, milk, and sugar in a bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
This no-egg version offers an easy way to make homemade vanilla ice cream with a creamy consistency and fresh vanilla flavor.
It’s a great beginner-friendly recipe that delivers satisfying results every time without the extra steps of custard preparation.
classic vanilla bean ice cream
From Serious Eats, this vanilla bean ice cream uses the whole bean for the deepest natural vanilla flavor possible.
The recipe includes a cooked custard base for creaminess and richness but stands out because of the fragrant vanilla seeds dispersed throughout.
It’s a luxurious dessert perfect for anyone who loves authentic, pure vanilla ice cream.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 5 large egg yolks
Heat the cream, milk, and vanilla bean seeds with the pod over medium heat until steaming. Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until pale.
Slowly add warm cream mixture to yolks while whisking. Return to heat and stir until custard thickens.
Remove vanilla pod, chill custard thoroughly, then churn in your ice cream maker.
This ice cream delivers an intensely aromatic vanilla flavor with a smooth, custard-rich texture.
The flecks of vanilla bean throughout add a beautiful visual touch and a taste that’s truly indulgent and satisfying.
no-churn vanilla ice cream
Popularized on many food blogs like Sally’s Baking Addiction, this no-churn vanilla ice cream is perfect for those who don’t have an ice cream maker but still want delicious homemade ice cream.
It uses sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream to create a rich, creamy texture with minimal effort.
While technically not made in an ice cream maker, it’s a fantastic vanilla dessert alternative.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
In a separate bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture.
Pour into a loaf pan or container and freeze for at least 6 hours until firm.
Though it doesn’t require an ice cream maker, this recipe’s simplicity and luscious vanilla flavor make it a beloved choice.
The creamy texture rivals traditional churned ice cream, making it an ideal easy dessert for warm days or last-minute treats.
rich vanilla custard ice cream
This recipe emphasizes a dense and creamy custard base made with egg yolks and heavy cream, offering a rich vanilla flavor that feels indulgent with every bite.
It’s perfect for those who appreciate a silky texture and deep, authentic taste, ideal for pairing with pies or fresh fruit.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Heat the cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan until just simmering.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.
Slowly pour some hot cream mixture into the yolks to temper them, whisking constantly.
Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and chill completely. Churn in your ice cream maker according to instructions.
This rich custard ice cream delivers a velvety mouthfeel and a beautifully balanced vanilla flavor.
The use of egg yolks gives it a satisfying density and smoothness that transforms simple vanilla into a gourmet dessert experience.
vegan vanilla ice cream
Ideal for those following a plant-based diet, this vegan vanilla ice cream uses coconut milk and natural sweeteners to recreate the creamy texture and sweet flavor of traditional vanilla ice cream.
It’s dairy-free yet indulgent, with a subtle coconut undertone that complements the vanilla perfectly.
- 2 cans full-fat coconut milk
- ¾ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Whisk coconut milk, sweetener, and vanilla until smooth. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least an hour. Pour into your ice cream maker and churn following manufacturer directions until thickened and creamy. Freeze for a few hours if a firmer texture is desired.
This vegan vanilla ice cream is a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or creaminess.
Its tropical hint of coconut adds a pleasant twist, making it a refreshing option for anyone avoiding dairy without missing out on classic vanilla ice cream goodness.
simple vanilla ice cream with cream cheese
Adding cream cheese to vanilla ice cream results in a uniquely creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor that enhances the vanilla notes.
This recipe from Taste of Home blends smoothness with a hint of richness, creating a refreshing take on traditional vanilla ice cream.
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Gradually add milk and cream while mixing. Stir in vanilla extract.
Chill mixture well, then churn in your ice cream maker until thick.
Freeze to firm up before serving.
This ice cream’s creamy, tangy undertone sets it apart from regular vanilla flavors, making it a delightful surprise.
The cream cheese adds body and richness without overpowering the classic vanilla taste, perfect for those seeking a slightly different vanilla ice cream experience.
bourbon vanilla ice cream
This recipe infuses classic vanilla ice cream with a splash of bourbon, adding warm, complex notes that enhance the sweetness and depth of the vanilla.
Perfect for adults looking to elevate their homemade ice cream with a little spirited flair, it balances creamy richness with a hint of boozy sophistication.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
Heat the cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.
Temper the yolks by slowly adding the warm cream mixture, then return all to the pan.
Stir over medium heat until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and bourbon.
Chill thoroughly before churning in the ice cream maker.
Bourbon adds a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the creamy vanilla base, making this ice cream both indulgent and sophisticated.
It’s a great dessert for entertaining or whenever you want a classic flavor with an exciting twist.
honey vanilla ice cream
Replacing sugar with honey in this recipe brings a natural floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
The honey adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, while also contributing to a soft, scoopable texture.
It’s an elegant, wholesome alternative for those who appreciate natural sweeteners.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup honey
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Warm cream and milk in a saucepan with honey until just hot.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.
Gradually add warm milk mixture to yolks, whisking constantly, then return to saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Chill completely before churning.
Honey’s gentle sweetness combined with creamy vanilla makes this ice cream a delightful treat with a slightly floral undertone.
It’s perfect for those who want a natural and sophisticated twist on traditional vanilla ice cream.
brown butter vanilla ice cream
This recipe uses brown butter to introduce a nutty, caramelized flavor that enriches the classic vanilla ice cream.
The toasty notes from the browned butter complement the smooth vanilla beautifully, creating a unique and comforting taste experience that’s both familiar and novel.
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until fragrant and golden, then remove from heat.
Add cream and milk to the browned butter and heat until steaming.
Whisk egg yolks and sugar separately, then temper the yolks with the warm mixture.
Return to heat and cook until custard thickens.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and chill thoroughly. Churn in ice cream maker.
The brown butter adds a rich, toasty complexity that elevates the traditional vanilla ice cream into something truly special.
It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to enjoy a familiar flavor with an unexpected, indulgent twist.
mascarpone vanilla ice cream
This recipe incorporates creamy mascarpone cheese into the custard base, resulting in an ultra-smooth texture and subtle tang that enhances the vanilla’s sweetness.
The mascarpone adds richness without heaviness, making the ice cream feel decadent yet light and silky.
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Whisk mascarpone until smooth.
In a saucepan, warm cream, milk, and half the sugar until steaming.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar.
Slowly add warm cream mixture to yolks, then return to saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until custard thickens.
Remove from heat, whisk in mascarpone and vanilla. Chill thoroughly before churning.
Mascarpone adds a luxurious creaminess and gentle tang that lifts this vanilla ice cream above the ordinary.
Its velvety texture and balanced flavor make it a perfect choice for anyone seeking an elegant homemade vanilla ice cream experience.
vanilla honey frozen yogurt
Combining tangy yogurt with natural honey and vanilla, this frozen treat offers a lighter alternative to traditional ice cream.
It’s refreshing, slightly tart, and naturally sweetened, making it a great option for a healthier dessert that still satisfies vanilla cravings.
- 3 cups plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients until smooth.
Chill the mixture well, then churn in an ice cream maker until it reaches a creamy, frozen consistency.
Freeze for an additional hour if firmer texture is desired.
This frozen yogurt’s balance of tangy and sweet flavors with the warmth of vanilla creates a refreshing and guilt-free dessert.
It’s ideal for warmer days or anyone looking to enjoy vanilla in a lighter, probiotic-rich format.
vanilla caramel swirl ice cream
Classic vanilla ice cream is combined with luscious homemade caramel swirls in this recipe, creating a delightful contrast of creamy and sweet.
The caramel ribbons add texture and bursts of buttery sweetness that perfectly complement the smooth vanilla base.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Prepare vanilla custard base by heating cream, milk, and sugar, then tempering the egg yolks and cooking until thickened.
Chill the base completely, then churn in your ice cream maker.
During the last few minutes of churning, slowly drizzle in caramel sauce to create swirls.
Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
The rich vanilla custard combined with sweet caramel ribbons delivers a luxurious, dynamic flavor experience.
This ice cream is perfect for anyone who loves classic vanilla with a decadent twist of caramel indulgence.
vanilla bean and almond ice cream
This recipe enhances classic vanilla ice cream with the delicate, nutty aroma of toasted almonds.
The combination of real vanilla bean seeds and almond extract creates a harmonious flavor profile that feels both comforting and elegant.
The almonds add a subtle crunch or can be blended in for a smoother texture, depending on your preference.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ½ cup toasted almonds, chopped (optional)
Heat cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla bean seeds with the pod until steaming.
Whisk egg yolks until pale.
Temper yolks by slowly adding warm cream mixture, then return to heat and stir until custard thickens.
Remove vanilla pod, stir in almond extract and chopped almonds if using.
Chill thoroughly, then churn in your ice cream maker.
This ice cream delivers rich vanilla flavor complemented by the nutty warmth of almonds.
The addition of almonds adds either a delightful texture or subtle background flavor, making it a sophisticated twist on traditional vanilla ice cream.
spiced vanilla ice cream
Adding warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to a classic vanilla base brings a cozy, aromatic depth to the ice cream.
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy seasonal flavors or want a comforting dessert that’s a little different from plain vanilla.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Heat cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until steaming.
Whisk egg yolks and temper with warm cream mixture.
Cook until custard thickens, then stir in vanilla extract.
Chill completely before churning in your ice cream maker.
The warm spices enhance the vanilla’s sweetness and add comforting complexity.
This ice cream is especially wonderful in cooler months or as a nostalgic treat that feels both familiar and special.
vanilla lavender ice cream
Infusing vanilla ice cream with dried lavender flowers creates a floral, fragrant treat that’s delicate and refreshing.
The subtle lavender pairs beautifully with the creamy vanilla custard, resulting in an elegant and calming flavor perfect for spring or summer indulgence.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
Warm cream, milk, sugar, and lavender in a saucepan, then remove from heat and steep for 15 minutes.
Strain out the lavender.
Whisk egg yolks and temper with warm cream mixture.
Cook until custard thickens, stir in vanilla extract.
Chill thoroughly and churn in ice cream maker.
This vanilla lavender ice cream offers a subtle floral note that elevates the classic vanilla flavor.
Its delicate aroma and creamy texture make it a sophisticated choice for special occasions or whenever you want a refreshing and unique vanilla dessert.
vanilla cinnamon swirl ice cream
This recipe combines classic vanilla ice cream with a rich cinnamon swirl, creating a warm and comforting flavor contrast.
The cinnamon ribbon adds a gentle spice that perfectly complements the creamy vanilla base, making each bite flavorful and cozy — ideal for fall or anytime you crave a little spice.
Recipe:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup cinnamon syrup (made by simmering sugar, water, and ground cinnamon)
Prepare a traditional vanilla custard base by heating cream, milk, and sugar, tempering the egg yolks, and cooking until thickened.
Stir in vanilla extract and chill completely.
Churn in your ice cream maker.
During the last few minutes of churning, slowly drizzle in the cinnamon syrup to create swirls. Freeze until firm.
The combination of creamy vanilla and warm cinnamon swirls delivers a dessert that is both soothing and indulgent.
This ice cream is perfect for those who enjoy classic flavors with a little seasonal twist.
vanilla almond butter ice cream
Adding almond butter to a vanilla ice cream base creates a luscious, nutty flavor with extra creaminess.
This recipe balances the sweet, smooth taste of vanilla with the rich, roasted notes of almond butter, offering a decadent and satisfying treat for nut lovers.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup smooth almond butter
Heat cream, milk, and sugar until steaming.
Whisk egg yolks and temper with warm cream mixture.
Cook until custard thickens, then stir in vanilla extract and almond butter until fully incorporated. Chill completely and churn in your ice cream maker.
The almond butter infuses the vanilla ice cream with a nutty richness that enhances the smooth texture and flavor.
This ice cream is a perfect choice for those who love the combination of nuts and creamy sweetness.
vanilla cardamom ice cream
Cardamom adds an exotic, aromatic twist to vanilla ice cream with its slightly citrusy and floral notes.
This recipe introduces ground cardamom into the custard base for a fragrant, flavorful ice cream that’s both refreshing and unique, perfect for adventurous palates.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Heat cream, milk, sugar, and cardamom until steaming.
Whisk egg yolks and temper with warm cream mixture. Cook until custard thickens, then stir in vanilla extract.
Chill thoroughly before churning in your ice cream maker.
This ice cream’s delicate cardamom spice complements the creamy vanilla base beautifully, adding an intriguing and aromatic layer.
It’s a sophisticated flavor that offers a refreshing alternative to traditional vanilla ice cream.
maple vanilla ice cream
This recipe blends pure maple syrup with classic vanilla, adding a natural sweetness and rich, woody undertones.
The maple flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy custard base, resulting in a comforting and slightly earthy ice cream that’s perfect for autumn or whenever you crave a deeper sweetness.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Warm the cream and milk with maple syrup until steaming.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.
Slowly temper the yolks by adding the warm cream mixture while whisking.
Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat until it thickens.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and chill completely. Churn in your ice cream maker according to instructions.
Maple syrup lends a warm, natural sweetness that complements the vanilla perfectly.
This ice cream feels both cozy and indulgent, making it an excellent treat for cooler days or those who enjoy a nuanced flavor profile.
coconut vanilla ice cream
Combining coconut milk with classic vanilla creates a luscious, tropical-inspired ice cream that’s creamy and subtly fragrant.
This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the smoothness of vanilla with the gentle richness of coconut, offering a slightly exotic yet familiar taste.
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Heat coconut milk, cream, and sugar until hot but not boiling.
Whisk egg yolks separately, then temper by adding the warm coconut mixture gradually.
Return to heat and cook until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then chill completely.
Churn in your ice cream maker.
Conclusion
Exploring a variety of vanilla ice cream maker recipes opens the door to endless homemade dessert adventures. Whether you prefer a quick no-cook method, a classic French custard, or unique flavor pairings such as honey, almond butter, or lavender, vanilla’s adaptable profile shines through. These recipes prove that making ice cream at home can be both accessible and rewarding, allowing you to personalize each batch to suit your cravings and dietary needs. Dive into these recipes and discover how a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream can become your signature homemade treat.
