Homemade ice cream is a delightful treat that you can customize to your taste. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
### Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
#### Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Base:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
– Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
2. **Chill the Mixture:**
– Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and improves the texture of the ice cream.
3. **Churn the Ice Cream:**
– Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
4. **Freeze the Ice Cream:**
– Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container.
– Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.
– Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
### Tips for Homemade Ice Cream:
– **Flavor Variations:** You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, nuts, or swirls of caramel or fudge during the last few minutes of churning.
– **Alcohol:** Adding a small amount of alcohol, like a tablespoon of vodka or a flavored liqueur, can help keep the ice cream soft because alcohol doesn’t freeze.
– **Custard Base:** For a richer ice cream, you can make a custard base by heating the milk and cream with sugar, then tempering in egg yolks. This requires additional steps but results in a creamier texture.
Would you like a more advanced recipe, or tips on making other flavors?
