Vanilla ice cream is a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
Its creamy texture and rich, sweet flavor make it a favorite dessert worldwide.
What makes homemade vanilla ice cream special is the freshness of ingredients and the ability to customize it to your taste.
From traditional recipes to creative twists with mix-ins and toppings, vanilla ice cream can be enjoyed in endless ways.
In this article, we’ve curated 15 homemade vanilla ice cream recipes that are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
These recipes range from custard-style ice creams to no-churn versions, offering options for every skill level.
Each recipe emphasizes creaminess, rich vanilla flavor, and the joy of making ice cream at home.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dessert maker, these recipes will inspire you to create your own indulgent frozen treats.
15 Classic Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipes You Can Make Today
Homemade vanilla ice cream is versatile, delicious, and satisfying for all ages.
The 15 recipes featured here showcase a variety of preparation methods, from classic custards to no-churn options.
They allow you to enjoy rich, creamy vanilla ice cream with the freshness of homemade ingredients.
With these recipes, you can experiment with mix-ins, toppings, and flavors to create personalized desserts.
Homemade vanilla ice cream is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or a simple treat on a warm day.
These recipes prove that classic vanilla can be both timeless and creative, delivering indulgent flavor in every bite.
Classic Custard Vanilla Ice Cream
This traditional vanilla ice cream features a rich custard base made with eggs, cream, and sugar.
Its creamy, smooth texture and deep vanilla flavor make it a timeless dessert.
Perfect for scooping into bowls, topping pies, or serving with fresh fruit, it’s versatile and indulgent.
The custard base creates a dense, velvety ice cream that melts beautifully on the tongue.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat cream and milk until simmering.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Slowly temper the hot cream into the yolks, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Chill custard for at least 4 hours, then churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer instructions.
- Freeze for 2–3 hours before serving.
The custard base provides rich, creamy texture and depth of flavor.
Vanilla extract enhances sweetness and creates a classic aroma.
This ice cream is indulgent, smooth, and perfect for any occasion.
Every bite is creamy, velvety, and deeply satisfying.
No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream
This simple, no-churn vanilla ice cream uses whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk for a quick homemade treat.
It’s easy, creamy, and perfect for those without an ice cream maker.
The light, airy texture pairs perfectly with fruit, chocolate, or caramel toppings.
Every bite is smooth, sweet, and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with vanilla extract.
- Gently fold whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully combined.
- Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for 6–8 hours or until firm.
- Scoop and serve chilled.
Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and natural sweetness.
Whipped cream creates lightness and airy texture.
This ice cream is quick, simple, and delicious.
Every bite is creamy, smooth, and satisfying.
French Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This recipe uses whole vanilla beans to create an aromatic, flavorful ice cream.
The custard base is rich and creamy, with natural vanilla specks throughout.
It’s perfect for serving alone or pairing with chocolate desserts or fresh berries.
The use of real vanilla beans elevates the flavor to a gourmet level.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk with vanilla bean seeds and pod until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale.
- Temper hot cream into egg yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove vanilla pod and chill mixture for at least 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Vanilla bean adds a deep, aromatic flavor and visual appeal.
Custard base ensures creamy, smooth texture.
This ice cream is elegant, rich, and satisfying.
Every bite is flavorful, velvety, and indulgent.
Salted Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream
This luxurious ice cream combines creamy vanilla custard with swirls of homemade salted caramel sauce.
The balance of sweet and salty enhances the rich vanilla base, creating a gourmet dessert.
It’s perfect for topping brownies, serving in bowls, or enjoying on its own.
Every bite offers a creamy, buttery, and slightly salty sensation that delights the palate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill for 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, swirl in salted caramel sauce.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Salted caramel adds richness and enhances the vanilla flavor.
Custard base ensures creamy, smooth, and decadent texture.
This ice cream is indulgent, rich, and gourmet-quality.
Every bite delivers creamy, sweet, and slightly salty delight.
Honey Lavender Vanilla Ice Cream
This unique ice cream infuses creamy vanilla custard with floral lavender and sweet honey.
It’s perfect for a sophisticated dessert or pairing with light pastries.
The combination of lavender and honey creates a delicate, aromatic flavor that complements the smooth ice cream base.
Every spoonful is creamy, fragrant, and lightly sweet.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender
- 3 tbsp honey
Instructions:
- Heat cream, milk, and lavender until simmering.
- Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes, then strain out lavender.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into egg yolks slowly, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and honey.
- Chill 4 hours, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Lavender adds a subtle floral aroma and sophisticated flavor.
Honey provides natural sweetness and depth.
This ice cream is elegant, creamy, and fragrant.
Every bite is smooth, lightly sweet, and indulgent.
Maple Pecan Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream blends creamy vanilla custard with toasted pecans and sweet maple syrup.
It’s a rich, nutty dessert with a hint of natural sweetness from the maple.
The crunchy pecans contrast beautifully with the smooth, creamy texture of the ice cream.
Every bite is indulgent, creamy, and full of nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return to pan and cook until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill for 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in toasted pecans and maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Toasted pecans add crunch and nutty richness.
Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and depth.
This ice cream is rich, creamy, and indulgent.
Every bite delivers smooth, nutty, and sweet satisfaction.
Cookies and Cream Vanilla Ice Cream
This recipe combines classic vanilla ice cream with chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies.
It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for parties or family gatherings.
The cookies provide a crunchy texture while the vanilla ice cream remains smooth and creamy.
Every bite is sweet, crunchy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill for 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to instructions.
- Fold in chopped cookies during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Cookies add crunch and a chocolatey contrast.
Custard base ensures creamy, smooth texture.
This ice cream is fun, indulgent, and perfect for all ages.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla and chocolate cookie flavor.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream blends creamy vanilla with the warmth of brown sugar and cinnamon.
It’s a comforting dessert perfect for cozy evenings or seasonal celebrations.
The brown sugar adds caramel-like richness while cinnamon adds aromatic warmth.
Every bite is smooth, sweet, and lightly spiced.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk with brown sugar until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks until pale, then temper hot cream into yolks gradually.
- Return to pan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla and cinnamon, then chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Brown sugar adds depth and natural sweetness.
Cinnamon provides warmth and aromatic spice.
This ice cream is creamy, flavorful, and comforting.
Every bite delivers smooth vanilla with rich, spiced notes
Espresso Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This recipe combines creamy vanilla ice cream with bold espresso flavor.
It’s perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a dessert with a caffeine kick.
The custard base provides smoothness, while espresso adds rich, robust flavor.
Every spoonful is creamy, aromatic, and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp instant espresso powder
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Dissolve espresso powder in hot cream, then temper into yolks.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill for 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker and freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Espresso adds depth, richness, and aromatic coffee flavor.
Custard base ensures smooth, creamy texture.
This ice cream is bold, flavorful, and indulgent.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla with a coffee kick.
Caramel Swirl Vanilla Ice Cream
This luxurious ice cream combines creamy vanilla with ribbons of homemade caramel sauce.
It’s perfect for an indulgent treat or serving with pies and desserts.
The smooth vanilla ice cream balances the sweet, buttery caramel swirls beautifully.
Every bite is creamy, rich, and decadent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill for 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Swirl caramel sauce into ice cream during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Caramel adds sweet, buttery richness.
Custard base ensures creamy, smooth, and decadent texture.
This ice cream is indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for dessert.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla with luscious caramel swirls.
White Chocolate Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream combines creamy vanilla custard with smooth white chocolate for a rich, sweet treat.
It’s indulgent, velvety, and perfect for chocolate lovers who enjoy a lighter cocoa flavor.
The white chocolate melts into the custard, creating a silky, luxurious texture.
Every bite is creamy, sweet, and decadent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup white chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in chopped white chocolate and vanilla extract, then chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
White chocolate adds creamy sweetness and luxurious flavor.
Custard base ensures smooth, velvety texture.
This ice cream is rich, indulgent, and decadent.
Every bite delivers creamy, sweet, and luxurious delight.
Almond Joy Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream combines classic vanilla with toasted almonds, coconut, and chocolate chunks.
It’s inspired by the popular candy bar and perfect for a nutty, chocolatey dessert.
The almonds and coconut provide crunch and texture while chocolate adds sweetness.
Every bite is creamy, crunchy, and decadent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted almonds, chopped
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chocolate chunks
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in almonds, coconut, and chocolate chunks during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Almonds, coconut, and chocolate provide texture and rich flavor.
Vanilla custard base ensures creamy indulgence.
This ice cream is luxurious, flavorful, and satisfying.
Every bite delivers nutty, chocolatey, and creamy delight.
Peach Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream blends creamy vanilla custard with fresh, juicy peaches.
It’s fruity, refreshing, and perfect for summer desserts.
The peaches add natural sweetness and a smooth texture that complements the creamy ice cream.
Every bite is light, sweet, and creamy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return to pan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in peach slices during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Peaches provide fresh sweetness and vibrant flavor.
Custard base ensures creamy and smooth texture.
This ice cream is refreshing, fruity, and indulgent.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla with juicy peaches.
Brownie Batter Vanilla Ice Cream
This ice cream combines creamy vanilla with chunks of fudgy brownie pieces.
It’s indulgent, chocolatey, and perfect for dessert lovers.
The brownie pieces add texture and rich chocolate flavor to the smooth vanilla base.
Every spoonful is creamy, chocolatey, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup brownie chunks
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in brownie chunks during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Brownie chunks add richness and chewy texture.
Custard base ensures creamy and smooth consistency.
This ice cream is decadent, indulgent, and perfect for chocolate lovers.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla with fudgy brownie delight.
Cinnamon Roll Vanilla Ice Cream
This dessert blends creamy vanilla custard with cinnamon swirls and pieces of baked cinnamon roll.
It’s sweet, aromatic, and perfect for breakfast-inspired dessert lovers.
The cinnamon adds warmth, while chunks of cinnamon roll provide texture and flavor.
Every bite is creamy, sweet, and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup baked cinnamon roll pieces
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Heat cream and milk until simmering.
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick.
- Temper hot cream into yolks gradually, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to pan and cook until custard thickens.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon, then chill 4 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker.
- Fold in cinnamon roll pieces during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Freeze 2–3 hours before serving.
Cinnamon and roll pieces add warmth and sweetness.
Custard base ensures creamy and smooth texture.
This ice cream is comforting, sweet, and indulgent.
Every bite delivers creamy vanilla with cinnamon swirl delight.
