Are you dreaming of creamy, dreamy vanilla ice cream without the hassle of an ice cream maker? Then get ready to be amazed! This recipe uses your Vitamix blender to whip up incredibly smooth, delicious vanilla ice cream in minutes. It's a simple, quick dinner dessert or a perfect treat any time of day. Forget those long churning times; this recipe is all about effortless homemade goodness. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced culinary enthusiasts looking for a quick and delicious healthy dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Chill the Ingredients: This step is crucial for achieving the best texture. Chill all ingredients (heavy cream, milk, and mixing bowl) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before starting. Colder ingredients result in a smoother, firmer ice cream.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Vitamix: Add the chilled heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to your Vitamix container.
Step 3: Blend: Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is completely smooth and slightly thickened. You'll notice the mixture becoming noticeably thicker as you blend.
Step 4: Freeze: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until solid. The longer it freezes, the firmer your ice cream will be.
Step 5: Enjoy! Once frozen, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before scooping and serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings like chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of nuts.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your ice cream will taste. Opt for high-fat heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
- Don't over-blend: Over-blending can incorporate too much air, resulting in a slightly icy texture. Aim for a smooth, thick consistency.
- Freeze in shallow containers: Freezing the ice cream in a shallow container will help it freeze faster and more evenly.
- Get creative with toppings: This vanilla ice cream is a blank canvas for your favorite toppings! Experiment with different flavors and textures.
Variations:
- Chocolate Vanilla Ice Cream: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture along with the other ingredients.
- Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream: Blend in 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries along with the other ingredients.
- Coffee Vanilla Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 3g
This easy recipe makes a delicious and healthy homemade dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the guilt. The recipe’s simplicity and the Vitamix's efficiency ensure quick and easy homemade cooking, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delightful treat!