3 Ingredient Ice Cream {Ready To Freeze In 7 Minutes}

Name: 3 Ingredient Ice Cream
Prep time: 7 min
Total time: 247 min
Ingredients: 4 cups heavy whipping cream; 2 14 oz cans sweetened condensed milk; 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)

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Easy 3 ingredient ice cream recipe makes the perfect vanilla base for all kinds of no churn flavor ice cream! Top with sprinkles, mix in Oreos, or eat it as is!

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This 3 ingredient ice cream is so easy to make, doesn’t require an ice cream machine, and has an almost cloud-like texture. If you’ve ever thought about making ice cream at home and then just, well, didn’t? I get it – it sounds like a chore, and to be honest, making “regular” ice cream from scratch is a chore. Enter this homemade 3 ingredient no churn ice cream. It is so simple, and it tastes amazing! All you need is heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk for a touch of sweetness, and vanilla bean paste (or good ol’ vanilla extract) for that classic, comforting vanilla flavor.

Here’s the scoop (pun intended) making this 3 ingredient ice cream is like creating a little magic in your kitchen. It’s the perfect project for a lazy afternoon, or when you’re craving something sweet, but the idea of a grocery run feels like a no-go. Whether you’re a vanilla purist or you’re itching to throw in some fun mix-ins (hello, chocolate chips and fruit swirls!), this recipe is a perfect base. So, let’s grab a bowl and a mixer, and turn these three humble ingredients into an ice cream that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Overview

Cuisine Inspiration: American Classic
Number of Ingredients: 3 (plus optional mix-ins)
Total “Cook” Time: About 4-6 hours (including freezing time)
Primary Cooking Method: No cook
Dietary Info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (without mix-ins)
Key Flavor: Rich Vanilla
Skill Level: Easy

Notable mentions

Quick and Easy Does It: Seriously, a few minutes of whisking, and you’re pretty much done. This 3 ingredient ice cream is my go-to when I want homemade ice cream but don’t want to make a day of it.
Smooth as Silk: I’m talking about a texture that’s so creamy. It’s like a hug for your tongue. This ice cream scoops up beautifully – no ice crystals, just smooth, velvety goodness.
Enough to Go Around: Got a big family or a bunch of friends coming over? No worries. This recipe makes a generous batch, a little over two quarts, so there’s plenty to share. It’s my secret weapon for summer BBQs and family movie nights.
Your Ice Cream, Your Way: Vanilla is just the start. Get creative with mix-ins, and make it your own. Chocolate chips? Berry swirls? Nuts? Bring ’em on!
No Fancy Gadgets Needed: If you’ve got a mixer and a freezer, you’re all set. No need for an ice cream maker or any special tools.

The 3 Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Ice Cream

Heavy Whipping Cream: This is the base that gives the ice cream its creamy texture. It whips up to create that rich, luxurious mouth feel – essential for any good no-churn ice cream.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweet, thick, and oh-so-good! This stuff not only sweetens our ice cream but also adds to the creamy texture.
Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract: A little vanilla goes a long way. Whether you opt for the speckled fun of vanilla be a n paste or stick with classic vanilla extract, it’s all about adding that hint of warm, aromatic flavor.

Optional Mix-Ins for No-Churn Ice Cream

Adding mix-ins to your no-churn ice cream is a great way to customize it to your taste. Here are some delicious ideas, along with brief instructions on how to incorporate them:

Chocolate Chips or Chunks: For a classic twist, fold in chocolate chips or chunks. Add them to the mixture just before you transfer it to the loaf pans.
Fresh or Frozen Berries: Gently fold in your favorite berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. If using frozen berries, make sure they’re thawed and drained to avoid extra water in your ice cream.
Crushed Cookies or Candy: Mix in crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or your favorite candy pieces for a fun and crunchy texture.
Nuts: For a nutty flavor, add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Toast them first for extra crunch and flavor.
Caramel or Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle in caramel or melted chocolate, then use a knife to swirl it through the ice cream base for a marbled effect.
Fruit Swirls: Puree some fruits like mangoes, strawberries, or peaches, and swirl them into the mixture for a fruity touch.

How to Add Mix-Ins:

Prepare your chosen mix-ins.
Once your ice cream base is ready, gently fold in the mix-ins using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
If creating swirls, add the drizzle or puree on top of the ice cream base in the loaf pan, then use a knife or skewer to create a swirling pattern.
Proceed with the usual freezing process as per the recipe.

How To Make 3 Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

Prepping For Whipping the Cream:

Chill Your Tools: Begin by placing the bowl of your 6-quart stand mixer in the fridge to chill. This helps in achieving the perfect whipped cream texture.

STEP 1: WHIPPING THE CREAM

Whip the Cream: Pour cold heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Start whipping on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Be cautious not to overbeat.

STEP 2: COMBINING THE INGREDIENTS

Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Lower the speed of your mixer and gradually add in sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
Flavor with Vanilla: Incorporate vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract into the mixture.

Optional: Mix-Ins

Fold in Extras: If using mix-ins, gently fold them into the mixture at this stage with a spatula.

STEP 3: FREEZING

Transfer for Freezing: Pour the ice cream mixture into loaf pans or a serving dish of your choice. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
Freeze: Let the ice cream set in the freezer until it reaches your preferred consistency.

STEP 4: SERVING THE ICE CREAM

Thaw Before Serving: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for easier scooping.

Popular substitutions & additions

Cool Whip Instead of Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use Cool Whip or a similar whipped topping instead of heavy cream. This substitution can make the ice cream less rich and slightly lower in fat.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream. Be sure to chill it well before whipping.
Extract Variations: While vanilla is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other extracts like almond, mint, or coconut for a different flavor profile.
Citrus Zest: For a fresh and zesty flavor, consider adding some lemon, lime, or orange zest to the ice cream base.
Coffee or Espresso Powder: If you’re a coffee lover, adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder can give your ice cream a delightful mocha twist.
Layered Ice Cream Cake: Use this ice cream as a layer in an ice cream cake, alternating with layers of cake or crushed cookies for a decadent dessert.

Tips for Making the Best 3 Ingredient Ice Cream

Achieve Perfect Peaks: When whipping the cream, aim for stiff peaks. This means the cream should stand up straight when the beaters are lifted. Over-whipped cream can turn buttery, so watch it closely.
Chill Your Tools: Using a chilled bowl and beaters can help the cream whip up faster and increase its volume.
Fold Gently: When combining the whipped cream with the sweetened condensed milk, fold gently to maintain the airy texture. This keeps the ice cream light and fluffy once frozen.
Incorporate Flavors Thoroughly: Ensure the vanilla bean paste or extract is evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Use Quality Ingredients: Since there are only a few ingredients, their quality will significantly impact the taste. Opt for good-quality heavy cream and vanilla for the best flavor.
Patience is Key: Allow the ice cream to freeze fully for the best texture. It might be tempting to check early, but it needs several hours to set properly.
Avoid Freezer Burn: Make sure the ice cream is covered well before freezing. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the ice cream creamy and smooth.
Serve at the Right Temperature: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to scoop and enhances the creamy texture.
Consider Serving Size: If you’re serving a large group, consider making two batches or splitting the mixture into smaller containers to freeze. This can make serving and storage more manageable.

How to Store 3 Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

Storing in the Freezer:

Proper Container: Always store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
Minimize Air Exposure: If your container doesn’t seal tightly, cover the ice cream with a layer of plastic wrap before closing the lid. This helps keep out ice crystals and preserves texture.
Avoid Odor Absorption: Keep the container sealed tightly to ensure the ice cream doesn’t pick up any odors from other foods in the freezer.

Shelf Life:

Duration: Homemade no-churn ice cream can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within the first few weeks.
Quality Over Time: While safe to eat beyond this period, the texture and taste may not be as optimal as when freshly made.

Preventing Ice Crystals:

Surface Care: After serving, smooth out the surface of the ice cream before returning it to the freezer. This action can help prevent ice crystals from forming on the top.

Thawing for Serving:

Room Temperature: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier scooping and the best creamy texture.

What to Serve with Your Ice Cream

Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit, like berries, sliced peaches, or tropical fruits, can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Warm Desserts: Serve your ice cream alongside warm desserts like apple pie, brownies, or a chocolate lava cake for a classic hot-and-cold combination.
Sauces and Syrups: Drizzle chocolate, caramel, or fruit syrup over the ice cream for added flavor and a touch of elegance.
Crumbled Cookies or Biscuits: Adding a sprinkle of crumbled cookies, such as Oreos, graham crackers, peanut butter cookies or ginger snaps, can introduce a delightful crunch and complementary flavors.
Nuts and Seeds: For a bit of texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, or even some toasted seeds over the ice cream.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of additional whipped cream on top of the ice cream can make it even more indulgent.
Coffee or Espresso: Pairing the ice cream with a hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso can create a lovely balance of flavors, perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

No, milk does not whip the same as heavy cream. Milk has more water, and will lead to an icy ice cream.

What can I use if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?

If you don’t have vanilla bean paste, vanilla extract is a perfect substitute. It gives the ice cream a lovely vanilla flavor. The general rule is to use half the amount of vanilla extract compared to vanilla bean paste.

Why is my no-churn ice cream too hard?

If your ice cream is too hard, it might have been in the freezer for too long. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Also, ensure you whip the cream to stiff peaks, as under-whipped cream can freeze harder.

Can I add sugar to the ice cream mixture?

The sweetened condensed milk in the recipe already adds the necessary sweetness. Adding extra sugar might make the ice cream too sweet. If you prefer a less sweet version, look for a sweetened condensed milk with lower sugar content.

How do I prevent ice crystals in my ice cream?

To prevent ice crystals, make sure to cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing it in an airtight container. Also, try to consume the ice cream within a few weeks for the best texture.

Whether you stick to the creamy vanilla base of this 3 ingredient ice cream or throw in your favorite add-ons, it’s all about having fun in the kitchen. It’s perfect for those spontaneous moments when you want to whip up something sweet without the fuss or for those warm evenings when a homemade scoop of ice cream feels like the ultimate luxury.

More Dessert recipes With 5 Ingredients Or Less:

I want to hear from you! If you try this easy 3 Ingredient Ice Cream recipe or any other of my easy recipes on Dinner in 5, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! I read all the comments and respond!

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