Hey y’all! If you’re looking for the perfect nostalgic dessert, this Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe delivers the dreamy, creamy taste you remember from childhood. It’s rich, velvety, and full of pure vanilla flavor—just like grandma used to make! Whether you’re cooling off on a sunny day, celebrating family gatherings, or simply treating yourself, this homemade vanilla ice cream is always a hit. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Classic, creamy texture thanks to real egg yolks and heavy cream.
- Rich, pure vanilla flavor that surpasses store-bought varieties.
- Perfect for parties, BBQs, or pairing with your favorite desserts.
- Customizable with add-ins like chocolate chips or fresh fruit.
- Super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Directions: How to Make Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the sugar (3/8 cup).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt until pale and creamy.
- Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Step 3: Cook the Custard
- Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 170°F to 175°F, roughly 5-8 minutes). Do not boil.
Step 4: Strain and Cool
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 5: Churn and Freeze
- Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
- Transfer the soft ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes (including chilling and freezing)
Notes: Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- For a truly decadent flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract or a real vanilla bean (check out how to make your own vanilla extract).
- If you don’t own an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe using the freeze-and-stir method (learn more about no-machine ice cream).
- Let your custard base chill thoroughly for a smoother texture and easier churning.
Variations: Twist on the Classic Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Chocolate Chip Vanilla: Fold in 1 cup mini chocolate chips after churning.
- Berries and Cream: Swirl in 1/2 cup of pureed strawberries or blueberries before freezing.
- Bourbon Vanilla: Add 1 tablespoon bourbon for a grown-up kick and extra smoothness.
Required Equipment for Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Ice cream maker
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Freezer-safe container with lid
Storage Instructions: Keeping Your Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Fresh
Store your homemade vanilla ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For best taste and texture, enjoy within 2 weeks. To prevent ice crystals, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Scoop over warm apple pie, brownies, or fresh fruit crisps.
- Serve with berry compote or drizzled chocolate sauce.
- Build sundaes with whipped cream, nuts, and cherries for a classic treat.
Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream
- Chill your ice cream maker bowl overnight for faster, creamier results (see ice cream making tips).
- Don’t rush the chilling process—an extra-cold base produces a smoother scoop.
- For extra richness, substitute 1/2 cup of milk with heavy cream.
Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe FAQ
- Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but your ice cream will be less rich and creamy—heavy cream yields the best texture. - How do I prevent ice crystals?
Cool your base thoroughly and store with plastic wrap on the surface before sealing to minimize crystals. - Can I make this egg-free?
Yes! Substitute the eggs with 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed into the milk for a Philadelphia-style version.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (optional)
- Ice and rock salt for churning (if using traditional ice cream maker)
Instructions
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1In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the sugar. If using, add the split vanilla bean and seeds. Heat over medium heat until just steaming, but not boiling.
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2In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt until pale and slightly thickened.
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3Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
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4Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 8-10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
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5Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Stir in vanilla extract. Discard vanilla bean pod if used.
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6Cool the mixture to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until thoroughly chilled. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze until firm before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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