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🥘Recipes by Nani
Dessert

Dad’s Famous Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

A rich and classic homemade vanilla ice cream that tastes just like the kind from the old hand crank machines.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· July 18, 2026
Dad’s Famous Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
recipesbynani.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
30 minutes
Total
45 minutes
Serves
8

My dad has been making this vanilla ice cream for as long as I can remember, and it is truly a staple in our family. It is wonderfully creamy and has that perfect classic vanilla flavor that pairs beautifully with any dessert you have on hand.

This recipe is completely old school and uses plenty of heavy cream and fresh eggs for the best texture. If you have an ice cream maker, you will love how easy it is to whip up this nostalgic treat right in your own kitchen.

🧺 Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

👩‍🍳Instructions

  1. 1

    Whisk the eggs in a medium bowl until they are light and fluffy.

  2. 2

    Gradually add the sugar to the eggs while continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.

  3. 3

    Pour the whole milk into the bowl and stir to combine all the ingredients.

  4. 4

    Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

  5. 5

    Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer instructions.

  6. 6

    Once the ice cream reaches a soft serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer safe container and freeze for at least two hours to firm up before serving.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. If the ice cream gets too hard, let it sit on the counter for five minutes before scooping to get the perfect texture.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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