Before we dive into scoops of creamy joy, can I just say — thank you for being here! 💛 Whether you're a seasoned dessert lover or simply ice cream-curious, I’m so excited to share this ridiculously easy recipe with you.
There’s something magical about making your own ice cream. No fancy machines, no complicated steps — just three simple ingredients, a bowl, and a spoon (or let’s be real... a ladle). This recipe is pure happiness in a pan and a total game changer for summer days, birthday parties, or late-night sweet cravings.
And the best part? You don’t need to churn a thing.
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🍦 What Makes This Ice Cream So Special?
Let’s break it down:
This is a no-churn, no-fuss, ultra-creamy vanilla ice cream that’s made with just three pantry-friendly ingredients: heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard with minimal effort. One bowl. No ice cream machine. Just mix, freeze, and devour.
And did I mention how customizable it is? Toss in crushed cookies, swirls of caramel, chopped fruit, or even brownie bits — the sky's the limit. 🌈
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ No churn machine required
- 🍦 Just 3 ingredients — yes, really!
- ⏱️ Takes 10 minutes to prep
- 🧁 Rich, creamy, and scoopable
- 🎉 Customizable with endless mix-ins
- 👨👩👧👦 Fun for kids and family-friendly
🤤 What It Tastes Like
This homemade ice cream is ultra-creamy, lightly sweet, and has a classic vanilla flavor that rivals any store-bought pint. It’s silky on the tongue, not icy or overly hard, and it melts in the most perfect, dreamy way.
You get the richness from the heavy cream, the sweetness from condensed milk, and that familiar hint of warm vanilla — like a scoop straight out of a summer dream.
🛒 Ingredients List
- 2 cups heavy cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure for best flavor)
Optional Mix-ins:
- Chocolate chips
- Crushed Oreos
- Swirls of caramel or peanut butter
- Chopped nuts or fresh fruit
- Brownie chunks or cookie dough
Get creative — it’s your ice cream, your rules!
🧁 Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer (or whisk and strong arms!)
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pan or freezer-safe container
- Plastic wrap or lid
👩🍳 How to Make 3-Ingredient Ice Cream
Step 1: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This is what gives the ice cream its airy, creamy texture — don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract using a rubber spatula. Mix just until combined — keep it light and fluffy!
✨ Want to add mix-ins? Now’s the time! Fold them in gently.
Step 3: Freeze
Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap or a tight lid.
Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm (overnight is even better).
Step 4: Scoop & Enjoy
Let the ice cream sit at room temp for a couple of minutes before scooping. Then dig in and enjoy your creamy, dreamy, homemade masterpiece!
🍨 Flavor Ideas to Try
Want to mix it up? Here are a few favorite combos:
- Cookies & Cream: Fold in chopped Oreos
- Strawberry Swirl: Add fresh strawberry jam and chunks
- Salted Caramel: Swirl in caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt
- Mocha Chip: Add espresso powder and chocolate chips
- Peanut Butter Crunch: Swirl in peanut butter and crushed pretzels
🧊 How to Store Homemade Ice Cream
Store your ice cream in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 2 weeks — if it lasts that long!
For best texture, let it soften for a couple of minutes before scooping.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really not need an ice cream machine?
Really! This no-churn method creates a creamy texture without needing a machine.
Can I use half-and-half or milk instead of cream?
Not for this recipe. The fat in heavy cream is what makes the texture rich and scoopable. Milk won’t whip the same way.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a plant-based condensed milk. Flavor will be more tropical, but still delicious.
How long does it take to freeze?
It’s best to freeze for 6–8 hours, but overnight is ideal for the perfect scoop.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure you have enough room in your freezer and containers to store it.
✨ Final Thoughts
This 3-ingredient homemade ice cream is pure magic. It’s easy, creamy, endlessly customizable, and a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute dessert or just want to impress yourself with how easy it is to make ice cream from scratch — this is the recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kid again — bowl in hand, spoon ready, and absolutely no regrets. 💛
🍪 More Sweet & Simple Recipes You’ll Love
- Simple Pleasures: Homemade Butter Cookies
- Twix Cookies – Buttery, Caramelly, and Totally Irresistible
- No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake
- Sweet and Crunchy Butterfinger Balls
📸 Show Off Your Scoops!
Tried this recipe? I love seeing your creations!
📷 Tag your photos on Instagram or Pinterest with #EasyHomemadeIceCream
💬 Drop a comment below — did you add mix-ins? Did the kids help? Let’s talk ice cream!
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per ½-cup scoop, base recipe only)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 kcal |
| Carbs | 20g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 18g |
Thanks for letting me share this sweet little secret with you.
Here’s to homemade desserts that are easy, joyful, and oh-so-creamy.
With love (and lots of vanilla),
Carolina
3-Ingredient Homemade Ice Cream
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract using a rubber spatula.
- If desired, fold in any mix-ins at this stage.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm (overnight is ideal).
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before scooping.
- Scoop and enjoy your creamy, dreamy homemade ice cream!
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