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Jump to RecipeThis homemade vanilla bean ice cream, is so easy to make, with only 4 simple ingredients and an ice cream machine you can have a delicious and creamy dessert in just minutes. This is a from scratch kitchen staple that will save you money and be healthier than the store bought version.
This summer I found a ice cream machine at a thrift store for $2.50, how could I pass that up. My daughter loves ice cream, but the brands in the grocery store, the ingredients just didn’t sit well with me. Full of oils and thickeners, I wanted to find a healthier option to make at home.

I suggest making some Apple Blondies with Caramel Drizzle to make with the ice cream. It is pictured above. Such a yummy dessert for fall or anytime of year
What I like about this recipe so much is it is a lower sugar ice cream. Most ice cream recipes call for around a cup of sugar, this one only calls for 2/3 of a cup. I believe the natural milk sugars in cream and milk also add a subtle sweetness, balancing the flavor and enhancing the richness of homemade ice cream.
Equipment
Ice Cream Machine – I suggest looking on Facebook market place or a thrift store but if you prefer to buy new, this one is similar to the one I have.
Freezer Safe Container – I use a glass container, but plastic would work as well, as long as it is freezer safe.

Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
2/3 cups organic cane sugar
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together a bowl and whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Add to ice cream machine and follow instructions for how long to churn for.
Once done, scoop into freezer safe container and store in the freezer.


Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl, whisk until sugar is dissolved
- Add to Ice Cream machine and follow the machine instructions
- Store in freezer safe contain
Storage Tips:
Store in freezer safe container. For best quality, enjoy the ice cream within 1-2 weeks, for the ceramist and best flavor. The ice cream can last up to 1 month but may develop ice crystals over time.

Another great part of this homemade vanilla bean ice cream is that by adding in some fun mix ins, you can easily transform the flavor, and elevate it. Here are some of my favorites but the possiblities are endless.
- Brownie bits
- Fruit preserves swirled in
- Fresh Fruit
- Chocolate Chips
Swirl tangy chokecherry jelly into creamy vanilla ice cream for a beautiful ripple of color and flavor. The sweet-tart berries add a unique twist that makes each scoop extra special.
This easy homemade vanilla bean ice cream is a classic dessert recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Creamy, rich, and full of real vanilla flavor, it’s the perfect frozen treat for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with your favorite pie or cake. Once you try this simple vanilla ice cream recipe from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Sweet Wishes,







