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National Ice Cream Day Classic Vanilla Bean Scoops

A rich, velvety homemade vanilla ice cream recipe perfect for celebrating National Ice Cream Day 2026. This classic custard-style treat is the ultimate way to cool down on a hot July Sunday.

  • Total Time: 10 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon high-quality vanilla extract
  • 1/2 vanilla bean (scraped seeds)
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • Ice and rock salt for churning

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat Dairy – Combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean seeds in a medium saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
  2. Step 2: Temper Eggs – Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl and slowly drizzle in one cup of the hot cream mixture while whisking constantly.
  3. Step 3: Thicken Base – Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat until the liquid coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Step 4: Add Flavor – Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to preserve the aromatic profile.
  5. Step 5: Chill Mixture – Strain the custard into a clean bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, until completely cold.
  6. Step 6: Churn Ice Cream – Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn for 20-25 minutes until it reaches soft-serve consistency.
  7. Step 7: Final Freeze – Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to ripen and the texture to firm up.
  8. Step 8: Serve Treats – Scoop into waffle cones or bowls and enjoy your National Ice Cream Day celebration.

Notes

For a modern twist mentioned in the guide, substitute dairy with coconut cream and cashew milk for a vegan-friendly gelato version.

  • Author: Mike
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Churning
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 0.5 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 0.2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg

Keywords: National Ice Cream Day, Vanilla Ice Cream, Homemade Dessert, Summer Treats, 2026 Celebration