There's nothing quite like the creamy, smooth texture of homemade vanilla ice cream. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a classic dessert without any gluten. With just a few simple ingredients and an ice cream maker, you can create a delicious treat that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Most of the ingredients for this vanilla ice cream recipe are commonly found in your kitchen. However, if you don't usually keep heavy cream or whole milk on hand, you'll need to pick these up at the supermarket. Make sure to get vanilla extract as well, as it is essential for that rich vanilla flavor.

Ingredients For Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Heavy cream: Provides the rich and creamy base for the ice cream.
Whole milk: Adds a lighter texture and helps balance the creaminess.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the ice cream and helps achieve a smooth texture.
Vanilla extract: Gives the ice cream its classic vanilla flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Technique Tip for Making Ice Cream
To achieve a smoother texture in your vanilla ice cream, make sure to chill the ice cream mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before churning. This step helps the fat in the heavy cream and whole milk to solidify slightly, resulting in a creamier consistency once churned.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich and creamy texture similar to heavy cream and is naturally gluten-free.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a gluten-free alternative that maintains a smooth consistency and mild flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a gluten-free sweetener with a lower glycemic index and a slight caramel flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste offers a more intense vanilla flavor and is naturally gluten-free.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt is a natural, gluten-free alternative that enhances the overall flavor.
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How To Store / Freeze Your Ice Cream
Ensure your vanilla ice cream is completely churned and has reached a soft-serve consistency before transferring it to the freezer. This will help maintain its creamy texture.
Use an airtight container to store your ice cream. This prevents ice crystals from forming and keeps the ice cream fresh. Opt for a shallow, flat container for quicker freezing and easier scooping.
Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This extra layer helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the ice cream smooth.
Label your container with the date you made the ice cream. Homemade desserts are best enjoyed within 2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Store the container in the coldest part of your freezer, usually the back. This ensures a consistent temperature and helps the ice cream freeze evenly.
When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes scooping easier and enhances the creamy texture.
If you notice any ice crystals forming on the surface of your ice cream, simply scrape them off before serving. This will help maintain the smooth, creamy consistency.
For long-term storage, consider dividing your ice cream into smaller portions. This minimizes the number of times you need to open the container, reducing the risk of freezer burn.
Avoid storing your ice cream near strong-smelling foods like onions or garlic. Ice cream can absorb odors, which can affect its taste.
If you’re planning to make ice cream sandwiches or other desserts with your homemade vanilla ice cream, pre-scoop the ice cream and freeze the scoops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the scoops to an airtight container for easy assembly later.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Method 1: Microwave Magic
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds. Check the consistency.
- If needed, continue heating in 5-second intervals until it reaches the desired softness.
Method 2: Countertop Thaw
- Remove the vanilla ice cream from the freezer.
- Let it sit on the countertop for 5-10 minutes.
- Stir gently to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
Method 3: Warm Water Bath
- Fill a large bowl with warm water.
- Place the container of vanilla ice cream in the water, ensuring the water level is below the lid.
- Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir to check consistency. Repeat if necessary.
Method 4: Refrigerator Softening
- Transfer the vanilla ice cream from the freezer to the refrigerator.
- Allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes.
- Stir gently to achieve a creamy consistency.
Best Tools for Making Ice Cream
Medium bowl: Used to whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the ingredients until the sugar is dissolved.
Ice cream maker: Churns the mixture to create a smooth and creamy texture.
Airtight container: Used to store the ice cream in the freezer, ensuring it remains fresh and free from freezer burn.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt.
Spatula: Helpful for transferring the churned ice cream from the ice cream maker to the airtight container.
How to Save Time on Making Ice Cream
Pre-chill ingredients: Ensure the heavy cream and whole milk are well-chilled before starting. This helps the ice cream churn faster.
Use a blender: Blend the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt for a few seconds to dissolve the sugar quickly.
Quick freeze: Place the ice cream mixture in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before churning to speed up the process.
Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store extra ice cream in the freezer for future use.

Vanilla Ice Cream
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Value
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