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In food, few delights rival the velvety embrace of homemade vanilla ice cream. The way it simply melts in your mouth and leaves behind a feeling of creamy decadence. As basic as it is, it is indisputably one of the best ice cream flavours to savour. If you want to have this delicious dessert experience and indulge in the creation of this timeless classic, follow these instructions to unlock the creamy symphony of a homemade vanilla ice cream recipe:
Ingredients for vanilla ice cream recipe:
1. Base Mixture
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
2. Vanilla Infusion:
- 1–2 vanilla pods or 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- Custard Enrichment:
- 6 large egg yolks
3. Optional Garnishes (for serving):
- Caramel drizzle
- Crushed pistachios
- Edible gold flakes
Instructions for homemade vanilla ice cream
Step1- Prepare the Base Mixture
Begin the homemade vanilla ice cream recipe by taking a stainless steel bowl. In the bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 2: Infuse with Vanilla
Split the vanilla pods lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the cream mixture. If using vanilla extract, add it to the mixture. Place the pods or extract into the mixture as well. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it steep for about 30 minutes.
Selecting the right vanilla is crucial for this vanilla ice cream recipe to be a success; opt for high-quality vanilla pods or pure vanilla extract. The subtlety of vanilla should permeate each scoop, offering a fragrant dance on the palate.
Step 3: Create the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the warm cream mixture to the yolks, whisking continuously to temper the eggs. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture, stirring constantly over low heat until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
Step 4: Cool the Custard
Once your custard has reached the desired thickness, it's time to cool it down. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any potential bits of cooked egg or the vanilla pods. This step ensures a silky-smooth texture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Place it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify. In the meanwhile, you can read through the rest of the vanilla ice cream recipe and prepare the drizzles or garnishes if you’d like.
Step5: Churn the Ice Cream
When your custard has thoroughly chilled, it's ready for the churning process. Pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically takes about 20–25 minutes, during which the mixture transforms into a velvety consistency with a luxurious, creamy texture. The churning process introduces air into the mixture, creating a light and smooth ice cream.
Step 6: Transfer and Freeze
Once the churning is complete, transfer the freshly churned ice cream into a lidded container. Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating an even surface. Cover the container with a lid and place it in the freezer. Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4–6 hours or until it reaches a firm, scoopable consistency. This step is crucial for the flavours to mature and for the ice cream to set perfectly.
Step 7: Serve with Garnish
When the time comes to unveil your vanilla ice cream recipe, consider the presentation. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into elegant serving bowls or onto decorative dessert plates. For an added touch of sophistication, drizzle aged balsamic reduction over the top. The tangy notes of balsamic beautifully complement the sweetness of the vanilla, creating a harmonious flavour profile. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch or drizzle over some delicious caramel syrup.
Experience Homemade Vanilla Bliss
In the realm of high-end culinary pursuits, the homemade vanilla ice cream recipe transcends the ordinary. This recipe, a symphony of simplicity and indulgence, invites you to savour the elegance of each ingredient and the meticulous process. As you relish each spoonful of this velvety creation, bask in the satisfaction of having curated a dessert that epitomises the refined artistry of homemade delicacies.
Photo: Shutterstock