Are you craving nostalgic, creamy desserts that take you back in time?
These 15 old fashioned ice cream recipes are perfect for reliving classic flavors with a homemade twist.
From rich vanilla and chocolate to fruity peach and nutty butter pecan, each recipe is crafted with traditional custard methods for smooth, velvety textures.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a sweet treat with family, these ice creams bring warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to every scoop.
Make your dessert table unforgettable with these timeless, delicious ice cream creations.
15 Irresistible Old Fashioned Ice Cream Recipes You Need to Try
With these 15 old fashioned ice cream recipes, you can enjoy classic, creamy desserts anytime at home.
Each recipe uses traditional methods, ensuring rich custard bases and perfectly smooth textures.
From timeless favorites like vanilla, chocolate, and butter pecan to unique flavors like honey lavender and caramel ribbon, there’s something for everyone.
These recipes make dessert preparation fun, flavorful, and nostalgic.
Perfect for family gatherings, summer afternoons, or any occasion that calls for indulgence.
Every scoop delivers the comforting taste of old-fashioned ice cream.
Old-Fashioned Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This classic vanilla bean ice cream is creamy, rich, and timeless.
It captures the pure flavor of fresh vanilla beans, making every spoonful smooth and indulgent.
Perfect for enjoying on its own, with pie, or as a base for sundae creations.
Simple ingredients and traditional methods make it a nostalgic favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 5 large egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and vanilla bean seeds and pod.
- Heat over medium heat until just simmering.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Slowly temper yolks with warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook over low heat until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Strain mixture to remove the vanilla pod.
- Cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer instructions.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This old-fashioned vanilla bean ice cream is creamy, aromatic, and indulgent.
The rich vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with pies, cobblers, or fresh berries.
Every scoop evokes nostalgia and comfort.
It’s a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
Classic Chocolate Ice Cream
This rich chocolate ice cream is deeply flavored and decadently smooth.
It uses real cocoa and a hint of melted chocolate for an intense, creamy treat.
Perfect for sundae toppings, chocolate lovers, or enjoying on its own.
The traditional custard method ensures velvety texture and indulgent mouthfeel.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 5 large egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped chocolate in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until chocolate melts completely.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until pale.
- Temper yolks with the hot chocolate mixture slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Strain custard to remove any solids.
- Cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This classic chocolate ice cream is indulgent and rich.
The custard base provides a silky texture and deep chocolate flavor.
It’s perfect for chocolate lovers and nostalgic desserts.
Every bite is smooth, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
Strawberry Swirl Ice Cream
This old-fashioned strawberry swirl ice cream combines creamy vanilla custard with fresh fruit.
The natural sweetness of strawberries is enhanced with a light sugar syrup.
Each bite is a perfect balance of smooth vanilla and fruity tartness.
It’s vibrant, refreshing, and evokes memories of summer treats from decades past.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat milk, cream, and sugar until warm.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Cool custard completely and stir in vanilla extract.
- For strawberry swirl, heat chopped strawberries with sugar until syrupy.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Gently fold in strawberry syrup during final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This strawberry swirl ice cream is creamy, fruity, and refreshing.
The strawberry swirls create a colorful, nostalgic look.
It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet, traditional treat.
Every spoonful delivers classic, old-fashioned indulgence.
Butter Pecan Ice Cream
This butter pecan ice cream is rich, nutty, and buttery, a classic Southern favorite.
Toasted pecans and a creamy custard base make every bite flavorful and indulgent.
It’s perfect on its own or served alongside pies and cakes.
Traditional preparation enhances the nutty aroma and smooth, creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Toast pecans in a pan with butter until fragrant.
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture gradually.
- Cook custard over low heat until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in toasted pecans during final minutes of churning.
- Freeze at least 4 hours before serving.
This butter pecan ice cream is creamy, buttery, and nutty.
The toasted pecans add crunch and rich flavor.
It’s a classic, indulgent dessert perfect for any season.
Every scoop captures old-fashioned charm and taste.
Coffee Ice Cream
This classic coffee ice cream is smooth, creamy, and infused with rich coffee flavor.
It’s perfect for coffee lovers or as a base for affogato desserts.
The custard base ensures creamy texture while the coffee provides depth and warmth.
Traditional preparation makes it a nostalgic and indulgent frozen treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee or espresso powder
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, sugar, and coffee in a saucepan until warm.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm coffee mixture gradually.
- Cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Strain custard and stir in vanilla extract.
- Cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This coffee ice cream is creamy, rich, and aromatic.
The bold coffee flavor balances perfectly with the smooth custard base.
It’s ideal for dessert lovers and nostalgic treats alike.
Every spoonful delivers classic, old-fashioned indulgence
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
This old-fashioned mint chocolate chip ice cream combines cool, refreshing mint with rich chocolate chips.
Each bite is creamy, vibrant, and nostalgic, perfect for summer afternoons or holiday desserts.
The custard base ensures smooth texture, while chopped chocolate adds satisfying crunch.
It’s a timeless favorite that’s simple to prepare at home using classic ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with the warm milk mixture slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in peppermint extract and cool completely.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in chocolate chips during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This mint chocolate chip ice cream is creamy and refreshing.
The chocolate chips add texture and richness.
It’s a nostalgic, classic dessert loved by all ages.
Every bite combines smooth mint flavor with chocolatey delight.
Rum Raisin Ice Cream
This traditional rum raisin ice cream is creamy with plump, rum-soaked raisins throughout.
The custard base is velvety, and the rum adds warmth and depth.
Perfect for holiday desserts or as an indulgent treat on a cozy evening.
It’s a timeless old-fashioned flavor with sophistication and nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons dark rum
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Soak raisins in dark rum for at least 1 hour.
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan until warm.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture gradually.
- Cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in rum-soaked raisins during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This rum raisin ice cream is rich, creamy, and flavorful.
The rum-soaked raisins create a sweet, boozy pop in every bite.
It’s a nostalgic dessert that brings elegance to any table.
Perfect for festive occasions or personal indulgence.
Peach Ice Cream
This old-fashioned peach ice cream captures the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe peaches.
Each scoop is creamy with small chunks of fresh peach, perfect for summer enjoyment.
The custard base ensures smooth texture while highlighting the natural sweetness of the fruit.
It’s a classic, refreshing dessert with a taste of nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in chopped peaches during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This peach ice cream is creamy, fruity, and refreshing.
Chunks of fresh peach add natural sweetness and texture.
It’s perfect for summer parties or a nostalgic afternoon treat.
Every bite delivers classic, old-fashioned enjoyment.
Maple Walnut Ice Cream
This old-fashioned ice cream combines creamy custard with rich maple syrup and crunchy toasted walnuts.
Every bite is sweet, nutty, and satisfying, perfect for fall or anytime indulgence.
The traditional custard base ensures smoothness while the walnuts provide texture.
It’s a comforting, classic dessert with rich, nostalgic flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and maple syrup.
- Cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in toasted walnuts during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This maple walnut ice cream is creamy, sweet, and nutty.
The toasted walnuts add crunch and depth.
It’s a nostalgic dessert perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Every spoonful delivers warmth and satisfaction.
Coconut Cream Ice Cream
This old-fashioned coconut cream ice cream is rich, creamy, and tropical.
Each bite features smooth custard with the subtle flavor of shredded coconut.
It’s perfect for summer desserts or anytime you want a light, indulgent treat.
The traditional custard base keeps it creamy while the coconut adds texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and shredded coconut.
- Cool completely, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This coconut cream ice cream is creamy, tropical, and indulgent.
The shredded coconut adds texture and subtle sweetness.
It’s a classic old-fashioned dessert with a tropical twist.
Every bite is smooth, rich, and satisfyin
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
This old-fashioned cookies and cream ice cream combines creamy custard with chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies.
Every bite is smooth, sweet, and loaded with crunchy cookie pieces.
It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s perfect for children and adults alike.
Traditional custard methods ensure a creamy texture that perfectly balances the cookies’ crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies, chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale and creamy.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in chopped cookies during the last minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This cookies and cream ice cream is creamy, sweet, and indulgent.
The chocolate cookie pieces add crunch and flavor to every bite.
It’s a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert that never goes out of style.
Perfect for parties, snacks, or a sweet treat anytime.
Honey Lavender Ice Cream
This old-fashioned honey lavender ice cream combines floral notes with natural sweetness.
The creamy custard base is infused with dried lavender and sweetened with golden honey.
It’s elegant, soothing, and a unique classic-inspired dessert perfect for summer or special occasions.
The gentle lavender flavor complements the rich cream perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup honey
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and lavender in a saucepan until warm.
- Strain lavender and stir in honey.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This honey lavender ice cream is creamy, floral, and subtly sweet.
The lavender aroma adds elegance to every bite.
It’s a nostalgic yet sophisticated old-fashioned dessert.
Perfect for summer afternoons or as a unique treat for guests.
Peach Melba Ice Cream
This old-fashioned peach Melba ice cream combines smooth vanilla custard with peaches and raspberry swirl.
Each scoop offers creamy vanilla, sweet peaches, and a tangy raspberry accent.
It’s a classic fruit-infused dessert with a nostalgic, elegant presentation.
The combination of creamy and fruity flavors makes it refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh peaches, chopped
- 1/2 cup raspberry puree
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan until warm.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in chopped peaches and swirl in raspberry puree.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This peach Melba ice cream is creamy, fruity, and elegant.
The raspberry swirl complements the sweet peaches perfectly.
It’s a nostalgic dessert perfect for summer or entertaining guests.
Every scoop is flavorful and visually appealing.
Black Walnut Ice Cream
This old-fashioned black walnut ice cream combines creamy custard with toasted black walnuts.
Each bite delivers nutty, slightly bitter, and rich flavors.
It’s a classic dessert, perfect for those who enjoy a more complex ice cream experience.
Traditional custard preparation ensures smooth texture while the walnuts provide satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup toasted black walnuts, chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in toasted black walnuts during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This black walnut ice cream is creamy, nutty, and slightly earthy.
The toasted walnuts add texture and richness.
It’s a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert for sophisticated palates.
Every scoop delivers classic flavor and satisfying crunch.
Caramel Ribbon Ice Cream
This old-fashioned caramel ribbon ice cream combines creamy custard with luscious caramel swirls.
Each bite is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced between sweet and buttery flavors.
It’s a classic dessert ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Traditional preparation ensures the custard is creamy while the caramel provides a decadent ribbon throughout.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until pale.
- Temper yolks with warm milk mixture slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return to saucepan and cook over low heat until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cool completely.
- Churn custard in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Gently fold in caramel sauce during the final minutes of churning.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
This caramel ribbon ice cream is creamy, sweet, and indulgent.
The caramel adds richness and visual appeal.
It’s a nostalgic, classic dessert perfect for any occasion.
Every scoop delivers smooth custard with a decadent caramel swirl.
