Country Style Vanilla Ice Cream

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: American

Creamy and rich vanilla ice cream with a smooth texture, perfect for hot days or special occasions, appealing to all ice cream lovers seeking homemade quality.

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Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 pints half and half
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla
  • 3 to 4 cups milk

Instructions

  1. Beat eggs until foamy.
  2. Gradually add sugar; beat until thickened somewhat.
  3. Add vanilla, salt, and half and half; beat well again.
  4. Pour mixture into a 1-gallon ice cream freezer.
  5. Add milk to the fill line.
  6. Cover the freezer.
  7. Pack the freezer in ice and rock salt and turn until very hard to turn, adding ice when necessary.
  8. If using an electric machine, follow the manufacturer's directions.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider substituting some of the milk with more half and half. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, for a unique flavor twist. Make sure to beat the eggs until they are foamy for a light and airy base. If you prefer a lower sugar option, try reducing the sugar by 1/2 cup without sacrificing too much sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This ice cream is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with desserts like brownies or pie. Serve it alongside a slice of Fresh Apple Crunch for a delightful contrast of textures. For a fun twist, top with chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or crushed cookies. Consider making an ice cream float by adding soda for a refreshing treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing for extra protection. It can last up to two weeks in the freezer. To enjoy, allow the ice cream to soften at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving for easier scooping.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Country Style Vanilla Ice Cream contains roughly 1968 calories, with 25g protein, 288g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), calcium (115% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2899mg per serving (126% of the Daily Value).

1968 kcal 98% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.5g 49% DV
Total Fat 41.1g 53% DV
Carbs 287.5g 100% DV
Fiber 3.7g 13% DV
Sugar 182.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2898.8mg 100% DV
Potassium 1271.4mg 27% DV
Cholesterol 26.3mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 671.7mcg 75% DV
Vitamin C 72.8mg 81% DV
Vitamin D 6.1mcg 30% DV
Calcium 1491.5mg 100% DV
Iron 21.8mg 100% 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 only heavy cream instead of half and half?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream for half and half, but it will result in a richer and denser ice cream. If you do, you may want to mix it with some milk to achieve a similar consistency to the original recipe.

How long does it take to churn the ice cream?

Churning time can vary depending on your ice cream maker, but typically it takes about 20-30 minutes. If you're using a hand-cranked model, it may take longer, so be prepared to turn the handle until the ice cream is thick and hard.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit?

Absolutely! Adding mix-ins is a great way to enhance your ice cream. Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit pieces during the last few minutes of churning for a delightful surprise in every scoop. Just be careful not to overload it to maintain a smooth texture.

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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