Country Homemade Ice Cream

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

Creamy, rich homemade ice cream with vanilla flavor, perfect for warm days or special occasions, suitable for family gatherings and dessert lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 4 eggs, well beaten
  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 4 cups half and half
  • 4 to 5 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla

Instructions

  1. Add sugar gradually to beaten eggs, beating well after each addition.
  2. When mixture becomes very stiff, add the half and half, milk, and vanilla, then mix thoroughly.
  3. Freeze in a gallon ice cream freezer until firm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of some of the milk. If you're looking for a sweeter ice cream, you can increase the sugar by a quarter cup. Make sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air, resulting in a lighter ice cream. This recipe is versatile; try adding mix-ins like crushed cookies or fruit for added flavor, or browse more American recipes for inspiration.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this homemade ice cream in waffle cones or bowls, topped with chocolate sauce or fresh fruit for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with So Easy Pecan Bars for a sweet dessert platter. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts on top for extra flavor and texture, making it perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming. To reheat or soften, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping. If the ice cream hardens too much, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds for easier serving, ensuring it doesn't melt too much.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Country Homemade Ice Cream contains roughly 1876 calories, with 24g protein, 302g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (76% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2756mg per serving (120% of the Daily Value).

1876 kcal 94% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.2g 48% DV
Total Fat 26.6g 34% DV
Carbs 301.6g 100% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 64.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2755.5mg 100% DV
Potassium 1895.9mg 40% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 339.2mcg 38% DV
Vitamin C 34.5mg 38% DV
Vitamin D 1.7mcg 9% DV
Calcium 986.8mg 76% DV
Iron 11.1mg 62% DV
Diet fit High-protein Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes like aquafaba or commercial egg replacers. However, be aware that the texture might vary slightly. If using aquafaba, whip it until frothy before mixing with sugar for the best results, maintaining a light and creamy consistency.

How long does it take to freeze the ice cream?

Typically, it takes about 4-6 hours for the ice cream to freeze firm in a gallon ice cream freezer. For the best results, check it periodically; if using a manual churn, you may need to churn every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the ice cream?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like cocoa powder or peppermint extract to the base before freezing. For mix-ins, add ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit pieces during the last few minutes of churning to ensure they are evenly distributed without breaking down.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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