Easy Ice Cream Recipe (4 Ingredients, Very Creamy, Yields Well)
Description
This easy ice cream recipe is perfect for beginners—no ice cream maker required! It uses just four simple ingredients to create a rich, creamy, and delicious frozen treat. The secret to its smooth texture is whipping the cream before freezing, ensuring a luscious consistency without any iciness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500ml) heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 2–3 minutes).
- Fold in Other Ingredients: Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Transfer to a Container: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Freeze: Cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Scoop and enjoy your ultra-creamy homemade ice cream!
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in add-ins like chocolate chips, fruit purees, crushed cookies, or caramel swirls before freezing.
- This ice cream stays fresh in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Best Results
✅ Use cold heavy whipping cream for easier whipping.
✅ Don’t overmix when folding in the condensed milk—gentle folding keeps the ice cream light and airy.
✅ For softer scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings & Yield
- Servings: About 6–8 servings
- Total Yield: Approximately 1.5 quarts (6 cups) of ice cream
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 24g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)
Health Benefits of Homemade Ice Cream
✔ No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought ice cream, this version contains no artificial additives.
✔ Customizable: You can adjust sugar levels or add nutrient-rich mix-ins like fruits and nuts.
✔ Calcium-Rich: Provides a good dose of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
Q&A
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: No, milk won’t whip up properly. For the best texture, stick with heavy cream.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Q: Can I add flavors like chocolate or fruit?
A: Absolutely! Add cocoa powder for chocolate ice cream, or swirl in fruit puree for a fruity version.
Q: How long does it take to freeze?
A: At least 6 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture.
Enjoy your homemade, creamy, and delicious ice cream! 🍦