Description
An ultra-creamy, no-churn vanilla bean ice cream made with just heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla. This easy dessert requires no ice cream machine and delivers a silky, rich texture perfect for summer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold, at least 35% fat)
- 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 whole vanilla bean (scraped) OR 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- A tiny pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep the vanilla: Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Set aside the seeds and pod (or use extract).
- Whip the cream: Pour cold heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Add vanilla bean seeds (and pod if infusing later). Whip on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer). Do not over-whip.
- Prepare the milk: In a separate bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk with vanilla extract or the scraped vanilla seeds until smooth.
- Fold the mixture: Stir about one-third of the whipped cream into the condensed milk to lighten it. Then, gently fold the milk mixture into the remaining whipped cream using a spatula until just combined and uniform.
- Freeze: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften before scooping. Enjoy within two weeks for best texture.
Notes
Ensure all equipment and cream are very cold for best whipping results. Do not substitute heavy cream with low-fat alternatives as they will not whip properly. Press plastic wrap directly onto the ice cream surface to prevent freezer burn. For vanilla bean, save the pod to infuse the condensed milk for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 26
- Sodium: 45
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Protein: 4
Keywords: no-churn ice cream, vanilla bean ice cream, homemade ice cream, easy dessert, summer recipes, dairy dessert, frozen treats