how to make ice cream with 3 ingredients

2 min read 18-01-2025

how to make ice cream with 3 ingredients

This incredibly simple recipe uses only three ingredients to create a creamy, dreamy ice cream. Perfect for a hot day, it's surprisingly delicious and easy to customize! This 3-ingredient ice cream is a great starting point for beginners and experienced ice cream makers alike.

What You'll Need:

This recipe relies on the power of sweetened condensed milk to provide both sweetness and creaminess. You'll only need three simple ingredients:

2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk: This provides the sweetness and creamy texture. Don't substitute!
2 cups heavy cream: The fat content in heavy cream is key to a rich and smooth ice cream.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other extracts like almond or peppermint!

Equipment:

Ice cream maker: This is essential for getting the proper texture. If you don't have one, check out tips for making ice cream without a machine at the end!
Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measuring.

Instructions:

Making this 3-ingredient ice cream is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step helps the ice cream freeze faster and smoother.
Churn: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Hardening (Optional): For a firmer texture, transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours before serving.

Tips for Success:

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the ice cream!
Don't skip the chilling step: Chilling ensures a smoother texture.
Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of salt, cocoa powder, or different extracts to customize your 3-ingredient ice cream. A teaspoon of instant espresso powder can transform this into a delicious coffee ice cream.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

A: While an ice cream maker is recommended for the best texture, you can make a simpler version without one. Pour the chilled mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for several hours, stirring every 30-45 minutes to break up ice crystals. This method will yield a slightly icier texture.

Q: How long will this ice cream last?

A: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I make this with other types of cream?

A: While heavy cream is best for its richness, you can experiment with half-and-half or even whole milk, but the texture will be less creamy.

Beyond the Basics: Flavor Variations

This simple recipe is a blank canvas! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Chocolate 3-Ingredient Ice Cream: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture.
Strawberry 3-Ingredient Ice Cream: Stir in 1 cup of pureed strawberries after churning.
Mint Chocolate Chip 3-Ingredient Ice Cream: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and chocolate chips after churning.

Making delicious ice cream doesn't have to be complicated. This 3-ingredient recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a cool treat with minimal effort. Enjoy!