Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy – A custard-based ice cream for a velvety texture.
- Natural flavors – Made with fresh strawberries and real vanilla bean.
- Perfectly balanced – A mix of sweet, fruity, and creamy goodness.
- Homemade delight – No artificial flavors or preservatives!
- Great for any occasion – A crowd-pleaser that can be served on its own or paired with desserts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for the strawberries)
- 1 vanilla bean
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for the cream mixture)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced strawberries with ½ cup sugar.
- Let sit for 30 minutes to release their juices, then mash gently with a fork.
2. Infuse the Vanilla Cream
- Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, vanilla bean seeds, and the pod.
- Heat over medium heat until it simmers, then remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes.
- Discard the vanilla pod.
3. Make the Custard Base
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining ½ cup sugar until pale yellow and slightly thickened.
- Gradually whisk the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks to prevent curdling.
4. Thicken the Mixture
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (do not let it boil).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Combine with Strawberries
- Fold the mashed strawberries and their juices into the cooled custard mixture.
6. Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
7. Freeze and Serve
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours for the perfect texture.
- Scoop and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Total time: ~4 hours (including freezing)
Variations
- Chunky Strawberry Ice Cream – Add small diced strawberries during the final minutes of churning.
- Strawberry Swirl Ice Cream – Puree additional strawberries with sugar and swirl into the churned ice cream before freezing.
- Dairy-Free Option – Replace heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk.
- Extra Creamy Texture – Add an extra egg yolk for a richer, silkier ice cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Softening: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for a smoother texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them before mashing to prevent excess moisture.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can freeze the mixture and stir every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours to create a similar texture.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean?
Yes! Substitute with 2 teaspoon vanilla extract, but vanilla bean adds a deeper flavor.
How do I prevent ice crystals in homemade ice cream?
Use airtight storage, press plastic wrap directly on the ice cream surface, and avoid temperature fluctuations.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but sugar helps maintain a smooth texture. You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative.
What toppings go well with this ice cream?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup make great toppings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This ice cream is best enjoyed within the first week for the freshest flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as no gluten-containing toppings are added.
How do I make this ice cream softer?
Adding 1 tablespoon of vodka to the mixture before freezing helps prevent it from becoming too hard.
Can I make a double batch?
Yes, but churn in two batches unless you have a large ice cream maker.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is the perfect homemade treat, combining fruity sweetness with a rich, creamy base. Whether enjoyed on a cone, as a topping for desserts, or simply in a bowl, it’s a delicious way to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth. Give it a try and enjoy a scoop of homemade bliss!
Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
- Total Time: ~4 hours
- Yield: Servings: 6-8
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream combines the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness of vanilla bean, creating a refreshing, luxurious treat. Perfect for summer days or whenever you crave a flavorful, homemade dessert!
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Mixture
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
For the Ice Cream Base
- 1 vanilla bean
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Softening: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for a smoother texture.
- Softening: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for a smoother texture.
- eeks.
- Softening: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for a smoother texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churned
- Cuisine: American
