Vanilla Ice Cream (Basic Custard Style) is an absolute delight, rich and creamy with a flavor that dances on your tongue. Perfect for summer days or as a topping for your favorite desserts, the recipe is a classic that never goes out of style.

When making the creamy treat, feel free to swap in any type of cream you prefer; heavy cream adds richness while whipping cream yields a lighter texture. If you’re keeping an eye on cholesterol, consider using egg substitutes suitable for custards. Just make sure your vanilla extract is the real deal for an authentic flavor. Sourcing quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final product.
Ice Cream & Frozen
Vanilla Ice Cream (Basic Custard Style) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream or 1 cup whipping cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat 2 egg yolks very well with a mixer until they are thick and a lovely lemon color.
- Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar while continuing to beat the mixture, ensuring it’s well incorporated and creamy.
- Stir in 1 cup whole milk, then transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat gently, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely; patience is key here, as cooling is essential for the flavors to develop.
- Once cooled, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or 1 cup of whipping cream along with 1 teaspoon of real vanilla extract, ensuring everything is combined smoothly.
- Cover the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight for the best results.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s directions to churn it into a creamy consistency.
Part of our Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Recipes collection — Part 3 of 3: