Homemade Ice Cream

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The Only Ice Cream Recipe You’ll Ever Need: A Canvas for Creativity

If you’ve been searching for the perfect homemade ice cream recipe, look no further. This recipe isn’t just about making incredible ice cream; it’s about making your ice cream. With a rich, creamy base and endless flavor possibilities, this versatile recipe is your gateway to creating a treat that matches your mood, cravings, and imagination.


The Base Recipe

This foolproof base balances creaminess, sweetness, and just a hint of vanilla to create a rich canvas for any flavor you can dream up.


INGREDIENTS

  • 2 c heavy cream
  • 1 c whole milk
  • 2/3 c sugar
  • 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
  • 4 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • Your choice of favorings (see below)

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. In a small pot, simmer the cream, milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar is completely dissolved, for about 5 minutes. 
  2. Remove the pot from the heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Whisk constantly.
  3. Temper the eggs. Slowly drizzle about a third of the hot cream into the yolks while whisking. Then, whisk the yolk mixture back into the pot with cream. 
  4. Return the pot to medium-low heat and gently cook until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon [about 170 degrees on an instant-read thermometer].
  5. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Cool the mixture to room temperature. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Churn in an ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Serve directly from the machine for soft serve, or store in the freezer until needed. 

Flavor Inspiration

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. With the base as your foundation, you can infuse a world of flavors. Here are some tried-and-true ideas to get you started:
  • Classic Vanilla: Stick with the base recipe for a timeless favorite.
  • Coffee Lover’s Dream: Infuse the cream with 1 ½ cups of whole coffee beans and 1 tablespoon of ground coffee while simmering. Strain before tempering the eggs for a bold, aromatic treat.
  • Mint Chocolate Chip: Add 1 ½–2 teaspoons of peppermint extract to the base, then fold in 3–4 ounces of chocolate chips after churning. Experiment with whole chips, chopped pieces, or a mix of both.
  • Pumpkin Spice Bliss: Mix 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice into the base and stir in 3–4 ounces of white vanilla chocolate chips during the final churn.
  • Peanut Butter Perfection: Blend 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or peanut butter sauce into the chilled base. Enhance with 3–4 ounces of mini chocolate-covered peanut butter cups for an indulgent finish.


Make It Your Own

From fruity swirls to nutty crunches, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination. This recipe invites you to experiment with extracts, spices, sauces, and mix-ins. Whether you're crafting a nostalgic classic or daring to try something unexpected, this base will never let you down.

So grab your whisk, dream up your next flavor, and enjoy the magic of homemade ice cream tailored exactly to your taste.














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