Easy Homemade Ice Cream – DIY Ice Cream Recipe 🍦

Making your own ice cream at home is simple, fun, and allows you to customize your flavors however you like! This recipe is a no-churn version, so you don’t need an ice cream machine to make this creamy and delicious homemade ice cream.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Mix-ins (choose your favorites):
    • Chocolate chips
    • Crushed cookies
    • Chopped fruit
    • Swirls of caramel or fudge
    • Crushed nuts

Instructions:

Step 1: Whip the Cream

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form (this usually takes about 3-5 minutes).
  2. Be careful not to overwhip; the cream should be thick and hold its shape.

Step 2: Combine the Sweetened Condensed Milk

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 3: Fold the Mixture Together

  1. Gently fold the whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk mixture. Do this slowly and carefully to maintain the fluffy texture of the whipped cream.

Step 4: Add Your Mix-ins

  1. If you’re adding any mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit, fold them into the ice cream mixture now. This is the perfect time to get creative!

Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream

  1. Transfer the ice cream mixture to a freezer-safe container (a loaf pan or any dish with a lid works great).
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, then freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, until firm.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once frozen, scoop and serve your homemade ice cream! If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Tips:

  • Flavor Variations:
    • Chocolate Ice Cream: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the sweetened condensed milk mixture.
    • Strawberry Ice Cream: Puree 1 cup fresh strawberries and mix it into the base before freezing.
    • Coffee Ice Cream: Stir in 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules or cooled brewed coffee for a coffee-flavored treat.
  • Mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Swirl in fruit preserves, peanut butter, or even toffee bits for an extra treat.
  • Storage: Store the homemade ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.

This Easy Homemade Ice Cream is super customizable, smooth, and creamy. Whether you’re making it plain or adding your favorite mix-ins, this simple recipe will deliver the perfect dessert every time! 🍦✨ Enjoy!