Are you ready to transport yourself back in time to simpler days, filled with the sweet, creamy goodness of homemade ice cream? This recipe, inspired by the legendary Emeril Lagasse, captures the essence of old-fashioned ice cream making, delivering a rich and unbelievably delicious dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. Forget store-bought – this homemade ice cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for hot summer evenings or any occasion that calls for a delightful treat. This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas after a long day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup heavy cream, for additional richness (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combining the Cream and Milk
In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is completely dissolved. This simple step lays the foundation for a luxuriously smooth ice cream.
Step 2: Chlling the Mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and creates a smoother, richer final product. Patience is key here for the best results.
Step 3: Churning the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes, until the ice cream has thickened to a soft-serve consistency. If you don't own an ice cream maker, you can find instructions for no-churn ice cream online as well!
Step 4: Hardening the Ice Cream (Optional)
For a firmer texture, transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This step is particularly helpful if you plan to scoop the ice cream later.
Tips for Ice Cream Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your ice cream will taste. Splurge on good heavy cream and pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- Don't rush the chilling process: Allowing the mixture to chill thoroughly is essential for achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
- Avoid over-churning: Over-churning can incorporate too much air, leading to a less dense and creamy ice cream.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, fruit pieces, or even cookie crumbles.
Variations:
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture in Step 1.
- Strawberry Ice Cream: Puree 1 cup of fresh strawberries and add them to the mixture in Step 1.
- Coffee Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules to the mixture in Step 1.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's based on a single serving of the basic recipe and does not account for additional mix-ins.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 20-25g
Enjoy this delicious homemade ice cream recipe – a perfect blend of simple ingredients and classic flavors that creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe showcases the art of homemade cooking while offering a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought options. It's a simple dish perfect for beginners but impressive enough for experienced cooks. Remember to share your creations and tag us!