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Instructions
1. Heat the Cream and Milk:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, half of the sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the split vanilla bean and its seeds (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot and steaming, but not boiling.
2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks:
- Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, which prevents the eggs from scrambling. Slowly add the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream.
4. Cook the Custard:
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (about 170°F to 175°F or 77°C to 80°C). Be careful not to let it boil.
5. Strain and Chill:
- Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This will remove the vanilla bean and any cooked egg bits. If using vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean, stir it in now. Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once the custard is thoroughly chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
7. Freeze Until Firm:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm. Scoop and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Vanilla Ice Cream
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your ice cream will depend on the quality of your ingredients, especially the vanilla. Choose real vanilla beans or a high-quality pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Chill the Custard Thoroughly: Make sure your custard is very cold before churning. This helps the ice cream freeze faster, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Custard: When heating the custard, avoid boiling it as this can cause the mixture to curdle. Stir constantly over low heat until thickened for the perfect creamy consistency.
Variations to Try
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: For an extra luxurious touch, use two vanilla beans instead of one. The specks of vanilla seeds throughout the ice cream add visual appeal and flavor.
- Add Mix-Ins: While the classic version is perfect on its own, you can customize it by adding chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or chopped nuts during the last few minutes of churning.
- Infuse Other Flavors: Try infusing the cream with other ingredients such as lavender, coffee, or cinnamon before straining the custard. This can create a delightful twist on the classic vanilla flavor.
How to Serve Vanilla Ice Cream
Classic vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with so many desserts. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:
- On top of pies and cobblers: The cold creaminess complements the warm fruit filling perfectly.
- With chocolate cake or brownies: The combination of rich chocolate and vanilla is always a winner.
- As part of a sundae: Add your favorite toppings like hot fudge, caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top for a traditional sundae.
- In a milkshake: Blend with milk and a little extra vanilla extract for a creamy, old-fashioned milkshake.
- Sandwiched between cookies: Make your own ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop between two freshly baked cookies.
Why Vanilla Ice Cream Is Timeless
Vanilla ice cream’s simplicity is its strength. It’s a blank canvas that can complement virtually any dessert, and its delicate flavor can be enjoyed as is or dressed up with various toppings. Making it from scratch gives you a new appreciation for this classic dessert, as the rich creaminess and aromatic vanilla shine through in every spoonful.
Conclusion
There’s a reason Classic Vanilla Ice Cream has stood the test of time. It’s a dessert that brings comfort, nostalgia, and joy to anyone who tastes it. Making it at home adds an extra touch of love and care to this already special treat. Whether enjoyed solo or with a decadent dessert, this classic recipe is one that everyone should have in their repertoire. Try making it yourself, and experience the pure delight of homemade vanilla ice cream!