Making homemade ice cream doesn’t have to be complicated or require special equipment. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy, and delicious ice cream right at home. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, busy families, or anyone who wants a quick frozen dessert without preservatives or artificial flavors.
This 3-ingredient ice cream is smooth, naturally sweet, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with your favorite mix-ins, it delivers the classic ice cream taste everyone loves.
Why This 3-Ingredient Ice Cream Works
The magic of this recipe comes from the balance of fat, sweetness, and air. Heavy cream provides the creamy texture, sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and smoothness, and vanilla enhances the flavor. When whipped and frozen correctly, these ingredients create an ice cream that rivals store-bought versions.
No ice cream machine is needed, no cooking is required, and the results are consistently satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The cream should be thick, fluffy, and hold its shape when the mixer is lifted.
Properly whipped cream is the foundation of this ice cream, as it introduces air that keeps the texture light and smooth.
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream. Add the vanilla extract at the same time. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture together. Avoid over-mixing, as this can deflate the whipped cream.
The mixture should look smooth, airy, and evenly combined.
Step 3: Freeze
Transfer the ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover tightly, and place in the freezer for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Once fully frozen, your ice cream is ready to serve.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Ice Cream
Using very cold heavy cream helps it whip faster and hold more air. Always fold the condensed milk gently to keep the mixture light. For best texture, cover the container tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping to make serving easier.
Flavor Variations
This base recipe is incredibly versatile. You can mix in crushed cookies, chocolate chips, caramel sauce, fruit puree, or chopped nuts before freezing. Swirl ingredients gently for a marbled effect.
You can also replace vanilla extract with almond, coconut, or coffee extract to change the flavor profile.
Why Homemade Ice Cream Is Better
Homemade ice cream allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. It is fresher, customizable, and surprisingly cost-effective. This recipe proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to create a high-quality dessert.
It’s perfect for summer treats, family gatherings, or late-night cravings.
Storage and Serving
Store homemade ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. For best texture, press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing the lid.
Serve in bowls, cones, or alongside cakes, brownies, or fruit desserts.
Final Thoughts
This 3-ingredient homemade ice cream recipe is proof that simple can be extraordinary. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought ice cream.