Print

Creamy No-Churn Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

no-churn vanilla bean ice cream - featured image

This easy, 5-ingredient no-churn vanilla bean ice cream is luxuriously creamy, packed with real vanilla specks, and requires no ice cream maker. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for summer or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 whole vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes (optional, but recommended).
  2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a small, sharp knife. Set aside the seeds.
  3. Pour heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Using a mixer on medium-high speed, beat until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla bean seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth.
  5. Gently fold about 1 cup of the whipped cream into the vanilla mixture to lighten it. Then add the rest of the whipped cream, folding gently with a spatula until thick and creamy.
  6. Scrape the ice cream base into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth the top and lay plastic wrap directly on the surface, then cover with a lid or more wrap.
  7. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm enough to scoop (overnight for best texture).
  8. Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk. Add up to 1 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips, cookies, or berries after folding. Chill equipment for fluffier whipped cream. Let ice cream sit out before scooping for best texture. Store airtight for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla bean ice cream, no-churn ice cream, easy dessert, homemade ice cream, summer treat, gluten-free, egg-free, creamy ice cream, 5-ingredient dessert