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Creamy No-Churn Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Easy 4-Ingredient Recipe

no-churn vanilla bean ice cream - featured image

A luxurious, creamy no-churn vanilla bean ice cream made with just four simple ingredients. This easy recipe requires no ice cream maker and delivers a rich, smooth texture perfect for summer evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 vanilla bean pod
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and place it in the freezer to chill.
  2. Split the vanilla bean pod lengthwise with a paring knife and scrape out the seeds.
  3. Pour the cold heavy cream into a large metal or glass bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. In a separate medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, scraped vanilla bean seeds, and salt. Whisk gently to combine.
  5. Add about one-third of the whipped cream to the condensed milk mixture and whisk gently to lighten it.
  6. Pour the lightened mixture back into the bowl with the remaining whipped cream. Gently fold together using a spatula until just combined and no white streaks remain.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals.
  9. Freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  10. To serve, lift the ice cream out using the parchment paper sling and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.

Notes

Ensure all equipment and cream are very cold before whipping to help the cream stabilize. Do not over-whip the cream or it will turn into butter. When folding, be gentle to maintain air bubbles for a light texture. Let the ice cream soften for 5-10 minutes before scooping for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-churn ice cream, vanilla bean ice cream, easy dessert, summer dessert, gluten-free dessert, ice cream without machine