Discovering Philadelphia-style ice cream was a game changer for me. With just 5 ingredients—cream, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla flavor—it’s so easy to make. No eggs, just a simple method for the BEST ice cream. As someone who loves ice cream, this quick, sweet treat is perfect for chocolate aficionados or anyone with a craving.
This simple recipe lets you customize with mix-ins and create any flavors you like, from classic vanilla to rich chocolate or fruity options.
Recipes For Homemade Ice Cream-The Short Answer
Homemade ice cream is nutrient dense, and with a bit of patience, you’ll enjoy an amazing scoop every time.
Ingredients
- Start with 1¾ cups heavy cream and 1¼ cup whole milk for a rich, creamy base.
- Add ¾ cup sugar and ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt to balance the flavors.
- For a warm vanilla flavor, add 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise.
- For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or other plant-based options, keeping the fat content for a creamy texture.
- To make a vegan ice cream, replace with cane sugar for the perfect sweetness.
- To customize your ice cream:
- Use 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and ⅔ cup cane sugar for any base flavor.
- Add ⅓ cup cocoa or cacao powder for chocolate flavor.
- Mix in brownie chunks, cookie dough, cookies, or chocolate chips for texture and fun.
- For extra richness, try peanut butter or oreos, ensuring your ice cream is creamy and never too icy.
Instructions
- Start by combining cream, milk, sugar, a pinch of salt, and a splash of vanilla in a saucepan.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for a minute.
- If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the mixture and add the pod for extra flavor.
- Let the mixture cool, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or leave it overnight.
Once you’re ready:
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Churn for 25-30 minutes until it’s thick, creamy, and has a soft serve consistency.
- If you like, add mix-ins like cocoa or cacao powder.
- Serve immediately or store it in an airtight container in the freezer for 12 hours to firm up.
From my experience, this method always results in a smooth, delicious homemade ice cream that everyone loves!
Notes
Making homemade ice cream is easy and delicious. Start by whisking the ingredients. You can skip the simmer step for a quicker method, or let it chill if you prefer. Once ready, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. After churning, use a spatula to transfer the ice cream into a quart-size airtight container. Press plastic wrap or foil onto it to prevent ice crystals from forming while it freezes.
Freezing and Storing Your Ice Cream
- Freeze for at least 2 hours, or up to a month in the freezer.
- When you’re ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes—this helps it soften and makes it easier to scoop.
- The first day it’s easy to scoop, but after a few days, it might need a little extra patience to get that perfect scoop.
Each serving contains:
- 373 kcal
- 30 g of Carbohydrates
- 3 g of Protein
- 27 g of Fat (including 17 g of Saturated Fat)
- 100 mg of Cholesterol
- 97 mg of Sodium
- 119 mg of Potassium
- 28 g of Sugar
- Vitamin A (1103 IU), Vitamin C (1 mg), and Calcium (103 mg)
From personal experience, this homemade treat is as nutritious as it is indulgent, making it the perfect homemade dessert!
Other Recipes You will Definitely Love
If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, Chewy Oat Cookies Without Butter–The Ultimate Healthy Snack! is a perfect choice. It’s the ideal healthy snack that pairs wonderfully with your homemade ice cream. And if you’re craving something savory to balance the sweetness, check out Perfectly Crispy Baked Boursin for Cheese Lovers, a delightful cheese dish that will impress anyone with a savory tooth.
For a quick dessert option, try Make Nutter Butter Banana Pudding at Home in 10 Minutes!—it’s as easy and delicious as it sounds. If you’re looking for a no-bake recipe, the Easy No-Bake Cherry Yum Yum Recipe You’ll Love! is a must-try! Finally, Coffee Creamer Cookies: The Sweet Twist You Need to Try will take your dessert game to the next level and complement your homemade ice cream perfectly.
FAQ’s
Want to Make It Even Simpler?
If you’re in a rush, just stir everything together, chill it cold, and pour it into the machine. While some people prefer simmering to dissolve the sugar and cool it, I skip that step frequently. It’s better when I’m feeling impatient, but still want fantastic ice cream.
Do You Really Need Eggs?
I don’t use egg yolks in my recipe. While they make the ice cream richer and thicker, leaving them out keeps the recipe ultra-simple. For me, it’s just as delicious without the custard base, and it saves both time and money.
