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    Home » Desserts

    Vanilla bean ice cream

    Published: May 16, 2023 · Modified: Jul 5, 2023 by Anna

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    This extremely easy-to-make homemade vanilla bean ice cream recipe has everything a real ice cream lover wants – creamy texture, perfect sweetness, and irresistible vanilla flavor. Make this ice cream in your ice cream maker or use a no-churn method.

    A bowl with 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate shaves; a silver spoon and more shaves are lying around the bowl.
    Jump to:
    • Why you should try this recipe 
    • Ingredients you will need
    • Cooking tips
    • Step by step directions
    • How to make no-churn vanilla ice cream
    • Possible variations and serving ideas
    • FAQ
    • More recipes you may like
    • Recipe card

    Why you should try this recipe 

    Amazing vanilla flavor – Vanilla is a classic for a reason, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level. By using real vanilla beans, you'll experience the authentic and aromatic flavor that elevates this ice cream from good to extraordinary. Of course, if you don't have vanilla beans on hand, you can easily substitute them with vanilla extract.

    Perfect sweetness – Finding the right balance of sweetness in ice cream can be a challenge, but this recipe has got it spot-on.

    You don’t need an ice cream maker – Whether you own an ice cream machine or not, this recipe has got you covered. If you have the machine, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions. However, the no-churn method allows anyone to whip up a batch of this delectable treat with ease. It's versatile and accessible for all ice cream enthusiasts.

    A creamy texture even with a no-churn method – This homemade ice cream, just like my Matcha green tea ice cream, Chocolate ice cream, and Condensed milk ice cream, is all about that smooth, creamy texture that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Say goodbye to icy ice cream and hello to a luscious, velvety treat that melts in your mouth.

    Ingredients you will need

    Egg yolks - The egg yolks (can be cold) serve as the base of the ice cream, providing richness and a smooth texture. They also contribute to the creaminess of the final product. If you don’t know what to do with the egg whites, you can make my Meringue cookies or this Mini pavlova recipe with lemon curd.

    Powdered sugar - Powdered sugar adds sweetness to the ice cream while ensuring it dissolves easily into the mixture. It helps achieve the desired level of sweetness without leaving a grainy texture. However, if you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, use regular white granulated sugar. Just make sure that it dissolves completely in the egg yolk mixture.

    Salt - Salt might seem like an odd addition to a sweet treat, but it plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness and rounds out the overall taste of the ice cream.

    Vanilla bean or vanilla extract - The star of the show! Vanilla bean or vanilla extract infuses the ice cream with its distinct and delightful flavor. The beans, when scraped, release tiny black seeds that are aromatic and visually appealing. If you don't have a vanilla bean on hand, vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste can be used as a convenient substitute.

    Milk – You will need whole milk (can be cold).

    Heavy cream – Heavy whipping cream is responsible for the luxurious and indulgent nature of this ice cream. Its high-fat content ensures a rich and creamy consistency, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

    A bowl with four scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate shaves; a silver spoon with some ice cream lies in the bowl.

    Cooking tips

    Scrape the vanilla bean properly - If you're using a vanilla bean, make sure to scrape out the seeds properly. Split the bean lengthwise and use the back of your knife to scrape out the tiny black seeds. These seeds are what gives the ice cream its beautiful specks and intense vanilla flavor.

    Stir continuously - While heating the egg yolk mixture in the saucepan, stir continuously with a whisk or spatula. This ensures even cooking and prevents the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. 

    Don't let the custard boil - It's important to keep an eye on the heat and avoid letting the mixture come to a boil. Boiling can cause the eggs to curdle and result in an unpleasant texture. 

    Seal tightly when storing - Transfer the ice cream to an air-tight container. This prevents ice crystals from forming and maintains the desired texture. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container for optimal freshness.

    Step by step directions

    1. Combine the egg yolks, salt, sugar, and vanilla seeds. Whisk well until a homogenous paste-like mixture has formed.

    2. Add the milk and the seedless vanilla pod, and heat over medium to medium-low heat stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and leaves a thick film on the back of the spoon. 

    The collage image shows four steps to make egg yolk custard for vanilla bean ice cream.

    3. Remove from the heat and pour into a bowl. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, ensuring that it touches the surface, and leave it to cool down to room temperature.

    4. Whip up the heavy cream to stiff peaks.

    5. Remove the pod from the egg mixture and pour it into the whipped cream. Whisk until homogeneous in consistency.

    6. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, transfer the soft ice cream to a container, close it tightly, and refrigerate further until the ice cream is at desired consistency.

    The collage image shows four steps to make vanilla ice cream.

    How to make no-churn vanilla ice cream

    To make no-churn ice cream, transfer the whipped cream and egg yolk mixture into an air-tight container or in a container and close it with plastic wrap so they touch each other, and place it in the freezer for 4 hours or overnight. 

    Possible variations and serving ideas

    Add-ins - Try folding in crushed cookies, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirls of fruit preserves. You can get creative and tailor the mix-ins to your preferences, creating unique flavor combinations.

    Ice cream sandwiches - Take your vanilla bean ice cream to the next level by sandwiching it between two cookies. You can use your favorite store-bought cookies or try my homemade Honey cookies. 

    Caramel or chocolate sauce - Drizzle Salted caramel or slightly warm Chocolate ganache over a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent and indulgent treat. 

    Toppings - Take your vanilla bean ice cream to new heights by garnishing it with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or grated chocolate. Alternatively, you can dust your vanilla bean ice cream with cocoa powder to add visual appeal and an extra touch of flavor. You can also top it with fresh fruits and berries or berry sauces like this Raspberry coulis.

    A silver spoon filled with vanilla ice cream with chocolate shaves topping.

    FAQ

    How to store homemade vanilla ice cream?

    Store it in an air-tight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

    Can you make a double batch?

    Sure, you can! It will take more time to freeze it though. So, better make it in the evening and freeze the ice cream overnight.

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    Recipe card

    A bowl with 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate shaves; a silver spoon and more shaves are lying around the bowl.

    Vanilla bean ice cream

    This extremely easy-to-make vanilla bean ice cream recipe has everything a real ice cream lover wants – creamy texture, perfect sweetness, and irresistible vanilla flavor. Make this ice cream in your ice cream maker or use a no-churn method.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Cooling and freezing time: 4 hours hours
    Total Time: 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes
    Servings: 8 servings
    Calories: 325kcal
    Author: Anna

    Equipment

    • Digital kitchen scale
    • Saucepan
    • Hand mixer or a whisk
    • Mixing bowl
    • Container

    Ingredients

    • 4 egg yolks
    • 150 g powdered sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 vanilla bean or 1-2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 100 ml whole milk
    • 500 ml heavy cream

    Instructions

    • In a saucepan, add the egg yolks, salt, sugar, and vanilla seeds. Whisk well until a homogenous paste-like mixture has formed.
    • Add the milk and the seedless vanilla pod, and heat over medium to medium-low heat stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and leaves a thick film on the back of the spoon. Do not let the mixture boil by controlling the heat.
    • Remove from the heat and pour into a bowl. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, ensuring that it touches the surface, and leave it to cool down to room temperature. Speed up the process by placing the mixture in the fridge or freezer, but don’t let it cool down lower than room temperature.
    • Whip up the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
    • Remove the pod from the egg mixture and pour it into the whipped cream. Whisk until homogeneous in consistency.
    • Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, transfer the soft ice cream to a container, close it tightly, and refrigerate further until the ice cream is at desired consistency.
    • To make no-churn ice cream, transfer the whipped cream and egg yolk mixture into an air-tight container or in a container and close it with plastic wrap so they touch each other, and place it in the freezer for 4 hours or overnight.

    Video

    Notes

    Freeze for up to 2 weeks.

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    Vanilla bean ice cream
    Serving Size
     
    1 serving
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    325
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    26
    g
    40
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    16
    g
    100
    %
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    7
    g
    Cholesterol
     
    170
    mg
    57
    %
    Sodium
     
    317
    mg
    14
    %
    Potassium
     
    89
    mg
    3
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    22
    g
    7
    %
    Sugar
     
    21
    g
    23
    %
    Protein
     
    4
    g
    8
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    1075
    IU
    22
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    0.4
    mg
    0
    %
    Calcium
     
    69
    mg
    7
    %
    Iron
     
    0.3
    mg
    2
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
    Tried this recipe?Mention @sugarpursuit or tag #sugarpursuit!

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    Comments

    1. Martina says

      May 19, 2023 at 6:49 am

      5 stars
      Thanks for inspiration for this summer, definitely gonna try it !

      Reply
      • Anna says

        May 19, 2023 at 12:32 pm

        Happy to hear that, Martina!

        Reply

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    Hey there! My name is Anna, and I am here to share with you my sweet and savory baking recipes and show you how to make beautiful cakes.

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