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French Vanilla Ice Cream

Creamy French Vanilla Ice Cream Made Easy at Home

Indulge in this homemade French vanilla ice cream that's creamy and rich, made with real vanilla beans for a delightful treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 scoops
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: French
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Custard
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Lactose-free cream can be substituted if needed.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.
  • 5 large Egg Yolks Egg substitutes may alter flavor and texture.
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can provide a deeper flavor.
  • 1 whole Vanilla Bean Substitute with extract in smaller amounts.
  • 1 pinch Salt Just a dash is needed.

Equipment

  • Ice Cream Maker
  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • fine mesh strainer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Ice Cream Maker: Start by placing the ice cream maker's bowl in the freezer for at least 12 hours.
  2. Heat Cream and Milk: Combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk in a medium saucepan and heat on medium-low for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Whisk Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 5 egg yolks and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until pale and light, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously.
  5. Cook Custard: Heat the combined mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5–7 minutes until it thickens.
  6. Strain: Pour the custard through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to catch any cooked egg bits.
  7. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in another cup of heavy cream, along with the seeds from 1 vanilla bean and a pinch of salt.
  8. Cool: Place the bowl over an ice bath for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  9. Churn: Pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to instructions for 25–30 minutes.
  10. Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 6 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1scoopCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 20gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure to use high-quality vanilla beans for the best flavor and always strain the mixture for a silky-smooth finish.

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