3-ingredient vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Whip the Cream:

Start by pouring the heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer (or a hand whisk if you want a bit of a workout), beat the cream on medium-high speed until it thickens and forms soft peaks. You want the cream to be fluffy and slightly stiff but not overbeaten. Soft peaks should gently fold over when you lift the beaters.

2. Combine with Sweetened Condensed Milk:

Once your cream is whipped, add the sweetened condensed milk to the bowl. This will give your ice cream its rich and creamy texture without the need for any extra sugar. Add in the vanilla extract for that signature vanilla flavor. Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla into the whipped cream using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much; you want to keep it light and airy.

3. Freeze:

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or a container with a lid. Smooth the top with a spatula, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the container in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and scoopable. For best results, leave it overnight to let the flavors meld and the ice cream firm up completely.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Once your ice cream is frozen and ready, scoop it out and serve it in bowls or cones. The texture will be creamy and smooth, with a deliciously sweet vanilla flavor. Enjoy it on its own or top with your favorite toppings like chocolate chips, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Why This Recipe Works:

This 3-ingredient vanilla ice cream recipe is as simple as it gets, but the results are extraordinary. The heavy cream provides a rich, velvety base, while the sweetened condensed milk offers the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. The vanilla extract brings a classic, comforting flavor that elevates the ice cream, making it irresistible with every scoop.

By skipping the egg yolks and the churning process of traditional ice cream, this recipe offers a shortcut that still delivers that luscious, homemade taste. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to experiment by adding mix-ins like crushed cookies, chocolate chunks, or even fruit for a unique twist!

Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Vanilla Ice Cream:

• Don’t overwhip the cream: You want soft peaks, not stiff peaks. Overwhipping can turn your cream into butter, which will affect the texture of the ice cream.
• Use full-fat ingredients: For the creamiest texture, stick to full-fat heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. Low-fat versions will result in a less rich ice cream.
• Customize the flavor: While vanilla is classic and delicious, you can easily infuse other flavors into your ice cream. Add a swirl of chocolate syrup, mix in some crushed Oreos, or fold in some fruit puree to make it your own.
• Store properly: This ice cream is best stored in an airtight container. For smooth scooping, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple & Quick: With only three ingredients, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. No need for any fancy equipment or complicated steps.
• Rich & Creamy: The sweetened condensed milk gives this ice cream a silky texture that’s hard to beat.
• Customizable: The basic vanilla flavor is just a starting point—you can easily personalize it with mix-ins or toppings.
• Perfect for Summer: Whether you’re celebrating a sunny day or treating yourself to something sweet, this ice cream is the perfect homemade dessert for any occasion.

3-Ingredient Vanilla Ice Cream is the dessert you’ve been waiting for—deliciously creamy, easy to make, and utterly satisfying. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors to shine through, and the creamy texture will have you coming back for more. Make a batch today, and enjoy the homemade goodness with just three ingredients!