Creamy Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smooth, sweet taste of homemade vanilla bean ice cream. This classic flavor is a favorite for many, and creating your own version at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a batch of creamy, indulgent vanilla bean ice cream to enjoy with family and friends.

To make this delectable dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
– 1 vanilla bean
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious treat.

First, pour the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt into a saucepan over medium heat. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the mixture, then add the vanilla bean pod as well. Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are slightly thickened, then slowly pour in the heated cream mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once the custard has thickened, strain it into a clean bowl to remove the vanilla bean pod and any cooked egg bits. Stir in the vanilla extract and place the bowl in an ice bath to cool the mixture down quickly. Once it’s cool, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

When the custard is thoroughly chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream should be thick and creamy at this point.

Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop. Then, serve and enjoy the rich, velvety flavor of your homemade vanilla bean ice cream.

Whether enjoyed on its own, drizzled with caramel sauce, or accompanying a warm slice of pie, this creamy vanilla bean ice cream is sure to please even the most discerning of palates. So why not give this simple recipe a try and treat yourself to a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.