Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Homemade vanilla ice cream is a classic dessert that is loved by many. It's rich, creamy, and bursting with the flavor of real vanilla.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and heat the mixture until it reaches a simmer. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
2. While the cream mixture is heating, in a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are smooth and well combined.
3. Once the cream mixture reaches a simmer, remove the saucepan from the heat. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture into the bowl with the whisked egg yolks, whisking constantly. This step, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from curdling.
4. Gradually pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
6. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Then cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill completely.
7. Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions. Churn the ice cream until it reaches a thick and creamy consistency.
8. Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and place it in the freezer for a few hours to firm up.
9. After the ice cream has set in the freezer, it is ready to be served. Scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy!

You can enjoy the homemade vanilla ice cream as it is, or you can get creative and add toppings, mix-ins, or sauces to customize it to your liking. From fresh berries to chocolate sauce, the possibilities are endless. Indulge in the creamy goodness of homemade vanilla ice cream!