Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with a Twist – Homemade Elegance, Every Spoonful
There’s something timeless about vanilla bean ice cream. It’s comforting, versatile, and effortlessly elegant. But when you make it from scratch—with real Ugandan vanilla beans—something magical happens. It’s not just dessert. It’s a moment.
At NY Vanilla, we believe that simplicity, when done right, is pure luxury. This homemade vanilla bean ice cream recipe adds a subtle “twist” with a hint of sea salt and caramel swirl, creating a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and gourmet.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture made with wholesome ingredients
- Infused with real vanilla beans for authentic flavor
- A surprising touch of salted caramel adds depth and indulgence
- Perfect for dinner parties, summer afternoons, or a quiet treat for yourself
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Ugandan vanilla bean (split and scraped) –
- 4 large egg yolks
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce (optional but delicious)
Instructions
-
Infuse the cream
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, and half the sugar. Add the split vanilla bean and scraped seeds. Heat gently until just simmering, then remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes. -
Whisk the yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and creamy. -
Temper the yolks
Slowly pour a bit of the warm cream into the yolks, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling. Then, pour everything back into the saucepan. -
Cook until silky
Stir over low heat until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F). Don’t let it boil! -
Chill & churn
Remove the vanilla bean pod, add a pinch of sea salt, and chill the custard thoroughly. Churn in an ice cream maker per your machine’s instructions. -
Add the twist
During the last few minutes of churning, swirl in the salted caramel. Transfer to a container, freeze for 4–6 hours, and enjoy!
Serving Ideas
- Pair with warm fruit cobbler or brownies
- Top with crushed pistachios and berries
- Serve in waffle cones for a nostalgic treat
- Add a drizzle of espresso for a quick affogato!
What Makes This Ice Cream Special?
Using real vanilla beans—not extract or imitation—makes all the difference. The seeds give the ice cream those gorgeous black flecks and an aroma that’s warm, floral, and unforgettable.
Plus, our vanilla beans are ethically sourced from Madagascar, hand-cured for optimal flavor and freshness. That’s the kind of care you can taste.
Pro Tip
Don’t throw away that used vanilla pod! Rinse and dry it, then place it in a jar of sugar for homemade vanilla sugar.
Final Scoop
There’s joy in the ritual of making something from scratch—especially when it’s as rich and soul-soothing as this vanilla bean ice cream. Whether you’re making it for friends or indulging solo, this recipe offers a small luxury you can taste in every spoonful.
Try it. Share it. And let vanilla be your new favorite classic.
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