Name: Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; 6 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced; 2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)

Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a delightful treat that brings the taste of summer right to your kitchen. The rich, creamy texture paired with the fresh sweetness of strawberries makes this ice cream a perfect dessert for hot days. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavor-packed dessert that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream at home offers several benefits. First, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you use fresh strawberries and high-quality vanilla. Second, it’s a fun and rewarding project that you can enjoy with family or friends. Lastly, the creamy vanilla base combined with the natural sweetness of strawberries brings a homemade taste that is often better than store-bought options.

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Ingredients:

1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
6 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)

Directions:

Prepare the strawberries by tossing the diced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, whole milk, half of the granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the seeds from the vanilla bean and bring the mixture just to a boil. Then remove it from heat.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining sugar until smooth.
Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This step is crucial to prevent the egg yolks from cooking too quickly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 170-175°F.
Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve, then stir in the vanilla extract. Cover and chill thoroughly for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Remove the vanilla bean pod and churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add the macerated strawberries in the last few minutes of churning.
Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 2-4 hours, before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is best served after it has fully frozen. Scoop it into bowls or cones and consider garnishing with fresh strawberry slices or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair. This ice cream pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm pie or a chocolate brownie.

How to Store Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

To store your homemade ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the top of the ice cream before sealing the container. This will help prevent ice crystals from forming. Store in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Tips to Make Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Be sure to use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
Allow the ice cream custard to chill completely. This will ensure a smooth texture once churned.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until firm.

Variation

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk. Additionally, you can try adding other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

2. How long does it take to churn the ice cream?
Churning usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but follow your ice cream maker’s instructions for best results.

3. Can I add other flavors to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or other fruit flavors during the last few minutes of churning to customize your ice cream.

Now you’re ready to enjoy Homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream that is creamy, sweet, and perfect for any occasion!