This luxuriously creamy ice cream requires just 4 ingredients and no machine! Silky, rich, and bursting with vanilla flavor—perfect for topping pies, sundaes, or enjoying straight from the tub.
Ingredients (Makes ~1 quart / 8 servings)
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, ice-cold
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped)
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk (optional, for lighter texture)
(Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit swirls!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Whip the Cream
- Chill a large bowl and mixer beaters in the freezer for 10 mins.
- Beat cold cream on high until stiff peaks form (~3-5 mins).
2. Mix the Base
- In another bowl, whisk condensed milk + vanilla + milk (if using).
3. Fold Together
- Gently fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream in batches to keep it airy.
4. Freeze
- Pour into a loaf pan or airtight container.
- Cover with parchment + lid (press parchment directly on surface to prevent ice crystals).
- Freeze 6+ hours (overnight for firmest texture).
5. Serve!
- Let sit 5-10 mins at room temp for scoopable perfection.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
⚠️ No—it won’t whip properly. For a lighter version, use 1 cup cream + 1 cup whole milk, but texture will be less creamy.
Q: Why is my ice cream icy?
➡️ Possible causes:
- Overmixed after adding condensed milk
- Didn’t cover tightly in freezer
Q: How to make chocolate version?
🍫 Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the condensed milk mixture.
Q: Can I add mix-ins?
✅ Yes! Fold in crushed Oreos, caramel swirls, or berries before freezing.
Q: How long does it keep?
- Freezer: Up to 2 weeks (best within 3 days for softest texture).
Serving Suggestions
🍰 Top with:
- Warm apple pie
- Espresso shots (affogato!)
- Fresh peaches + honey
🎉 Perfect for:
- Summer BBQs
- Birthday parties
- Late-night cravings
Nutrition (per ½ cup): ~280 kcal
This foolproof ice cream is creamy, dreamy, and endlessly customizable—no fancy equipment needed! 😍
Pro Tip: For extra richness, swap milk for ½ cup sour cream! 🥛
