Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

There’s nothing quite like a big scoop of Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream. It’s creamy, rich, and full of fresh vanilla flavor. Best of all, you only need a handful of ingredients to make it right in your own kitchen.

Instead of buying a tub from the store, you mix and churn the ingredients yourself, which gives it a rich, creamy texture and a fresh vanilla flavor that tastes more wholesome and natural.

I like to keep my KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment stored in the freezer at all times so it’s ready to go whenever the craving for homemade ice cream hits.

This was actually the very first recipe I tried with my KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker attachment, but every time I made it we ate it so quickly that I never managed to snap a picture of it in the bowl—it’s just that good!

Homemade Vanilla Ice cream isn’t just a summertime treat—it’s a year-round classic. Its rich, creamy flavor pairs perfectly with cozy fall desserts like Sweet Baked Apples, Apple Crisp, or a Peach Crisp, making it just as welcome on the table in October as it is in July.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavor that pairs with brownies, cobblers, pies, or eaten on its own.
• Creamy texture without the fuss of making custard.
• No eggs required – just cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
• Easy to make with the KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other homemade ice cream flavors like Homemade Cherry Nut, Chunky Monkey, and Mint Chocolate Chip for more sweet inspiration.

What is Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream?

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream is a classic frozen dessert made from scratch, usually with simple ingredients like cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla.

The vanilla flavor usually comes from either vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, or real vanilla beans for a stronger, aromatic taste.

If you’ve ever wanted to skip the store-bought carton and make your own ice cream from scratch, this recipe is the perfect starting point.

Ingredients

• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Granulated sugar
• Pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean)
• Salt

How to make Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Place the bowl in the freezer for at least 15 hours (overnight works best).

The colder it is, the creamier your ice cream will be.

Whisk together sugar, milk, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.

Stir in heavy cream and vanilla.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).

Set up the KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment.

Turn the mixer to “Stir” speed and slowly pour in the mixture.

Churn for 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy.

Transfer to an airtight container, cover, and freeze 4 hours before serving.

Treat yourself to a bowl!