How to Make Vanilla Ice Cream

Let’s make the most popular summer treat – vanilla ice cream. You can buy it in the store, but it will never taste like homemade. When you make ice cream at home, you get a rich, flavorful, and super creamy dessert. The best news is that you can make it in just 10 minutes with this vanilla ice cream recipe. Then just let it cool, and you will have the best homemade ice cream you have ever tasted!

Biscuits and Gravy hold a special place in my heart as a nostalgic breakfast that carries the warmth of family traditions. Growing up in Indiana, this dish was a beloved staple, and every bite is a journey back to lazy weekend mornings with loved ones. The crispy, fluffy biscuits paired with the rich, savory sausage gravy create a symphony of flavors and textures that's simply irresistible. While it might not be an everyday indulgence, it's a timeless treat that never fails to bring back fond memories.

Vadim Rachok

Chef

The Origin of Ice Cream

Ice cream’s origins date back centuries, with some accounts suggesting its existence in ancient China, where a snow-and-rice mixture was flavored with fruit. However, it gained popularity in the medieval Arab world. Here, recipes evolved using ingredients such as milk, sugar, and natural flavors. By the 17th century, ice cream had spread throughout Europe. Variations appeared in Italy and France. 

It wasn’t until the introduction of hand-cranked churns and ice houses to store ice in the 18th century that ice cream became more widespread. Ice cream production became even more popular and accessible to the masses during the Industrial Revolution. Today, ice cream is enjoyed around the world. It comes in countless flavors and variations, reflecting cultural preferences and innovations in food technology.

Vanilla Ice Cream Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a critical role in helping to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this delicious frozen treat.

• Eggs: Eggs contribute richness and texture to the ice cream.
• Vanilla sugar: Use vanilla sugar to enhance the flavor of the dessert.
• Cream and milk: Milk and cream provide the creamy base of ice cream.
• Sugar: It adds sweetness to the dessert.  
• Salt: Add salt to balance the sweetness.
• Corn starch: Corn starch helps to thicken the mixture, resulting in a smooth and rich consistency in the final ice cream.

How to Make Vanilla Ice Cream at Home?

1. First, separate the egg yolks from the whites. 
2. Then, whisk the egg yolks until light and fluffy.
3. Place the cream, milk, sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt in a saucepan.
4. Then, bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. The mixture should thicken from the starch.
5. Immediately pour the mixture into egg yolks. Stir to combine.
6. Next, cover it with plastic wrap so that it lies directly on the surface of the ice cream mixture. Allow to cool at room temperature.
7. Place in the freezer for 12 hours. It is advisable to stir the ice cream every 3-4 hours to reduce water crystallization and make the mixture softer.
8. Enjoy the ice cream on its own or with your favorite dessert.

Chef Recipe Tips:

• It is important to whisk egg yolks well.
• It is necessary to pour the boiling cream into the yolks all at once and stir again to prevent the yolks from curdling. 
• If you do not stir the vanilla mixture in the freezer, the water particles will turn to ice and spoil the flavor.

How Long Does Ice Cream Last? 

Homemade ice cream lasts less than store-bought ice cream. You can store your vanilla ice cream in an airtight container or in a recycled ice cream container. Also, you can use or in a zip-top freezer bag. Try to enjoy the ice cream within a few weeks. This will give you the best taste.

What to Serve With Ice Cream?

You can enjoy this homemade vanilla ice cream on its own, but it’s also great with other summer desserts. This could be a fruit crisp, cobbler, or waffles. You can also choose one of these toppings: chocolate syrup, caramel, or fruit sauce.

Storage Advice

It is better to store the ice cream in an airtight container. Also, do not forget to press a piece of plastic wrap into the top of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming. On the first day, the ice cream will be easy to scoop. But it will get firmer with more time in the freezer. Thus, it may be necessary to let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.