3-Ingredient Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A Lighter Option That’s Creamy and Flavorful

You don’t have to worry about getting that rich vanilla bean flavor from store bought ice cream anymore, my friends.

This is the kind of frozen dessert that’s not only easy to make at home, but it only requires three ingredients total.

Pull out that wonderful ice cream machine you love and trust, and just like that, celebrating summer just got a whole lot easier.

Vanilla bean is one of my favorite types of ice cream. I know it might sound kind of basic, especially compared to other flavor-packed recipes I’ve made like summery peach and rum raisin, but it’s one of those flavors that reminds me of so many happy dessert memories.

I mean, it’s basically the best kind of frozen goodness to serve on top of a warm fruit dessert, or decadent chocolate brownies.

The first time I made this recipe, I declared it my favorite version of all time. I stand by that today.

It’s so simple to make. It takes just three ingredients, and each of them shines in the final product. Using high quality ingredients is the key to getting the best results.

We used raw goat’s milk, but raw cow’s milk would be the next best thing, followed by pasteurized whole milk, and then perhaps coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Whatever type you choose to use, be sure to select one with a high fat content for a creamy texture.

Technically an ice milk, it’s a lower fat option than its heavy cream-containing counterparts. And it’s egg-free as well, an added bonus in other recipes like our pomegranate orange ice cream, so you don’t need to spend any time hovering over the stove while you wait for your custard to thicken.

Whole vanilla beans are packed with seeds that bring a big wallop of flavor, and every scoop has those little flecks throughout to let you know this homemade treat was made with the real deal. I know that buying them at the store can get pretty expensive, so I like to purchase these in bulk.

If you store them correctly, then they will last for a good amount of time, upwards of a year.

Keep them in a cool, dark place in an airtight container, or in a plastic bag that’s been zipped up tight with your vacuum sealer. You can make so many different recipes with them, and if you keep a few extras in your pantry, you can make this dessert over and over again all summer long.

The maple syrup adds sweetness, and just a touch of earthy, rich flavor that pairs so well with the vanilla.

This simple recipe takes just minutes to pull together before you put the base in your ice cream machine to churn. Then all you have to do is freeze it until it is set. In just a few hours, you will be in vanilla heaven.

I love a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top, but you can top it with fruit preserves, sprinkles, whipped cream, chopped nuts, and so much more.

Grab your favorite ice cream scoop and a few bowls or cones, and dig in!

3-Ingredient Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

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• Author: Meghan Yager
• Total Time: 4 hours, 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 quart 1x

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Description

Simple homemade frozen treats aren’t easy to come by, but this 3-ingredient vanilla ice cream is a cinch to prepare. Try coconut milk for a dairy-free version!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 1/2 cups raw goat’s, whole cow’s, or coconut milk, divided
• 4 whole vanilla beans
• 1 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A dark recommended)

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Instructions

1. Freeze the bowl of your ice cream maker for at least 24 hours before you start the recipe, or according to manufacturer’s directions.
2. Put ½ cup milk in your Vitamix or other high-speed blender.
3. Cut vanilla beans in half lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the blender. Add the maple syrup.
4. Blend on high until thoroughly incorporated.
5. Add the remaining milk. Blend until well-combined and frothy. Process in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer to an airtight container with a lid and chill in the freezer until set, about 4 hours.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Ice Cream
• Method: No-Cook, Freezer
• Cuisine: Dessert

Keywords: vanilla, vanilla bean, vanilla ice cream, dairy-free

Cooking By the Numbers…

Step 1 – Prep

Place the bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer for at least 24 hours before you start this recipe.

Different models will have different directions, so be sure to follow them and plan ahead. If you are using a hand churn ice cream maker, set it up now.

Step 2 – Measure Ingredients

Measure out the ingredients listed on the ingredients list.

Place 1/2 cup of your desired milk in a high-speed blender.

Step 3 – Add Vanilla

Cut the vanilla beans in half lengthwise.

Use a small knife to scrape the seeds out.

Add the seeds to the blender.

Step 4 – Make Base

Blend on high until well combined.

Add the rest of the milk. Continue to blend until frothy and well combined.

Step 5 – Freeze

Add the mixture to your ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Transfer the semi-frozen mixture to an airtight container with a lid. Freeze until set, for at least 4 hours.

Allow to defrost for a few minutes on the counter before scooping and serving.

About Meghan Yager

Meghan Yager is a food addict turned food and travel writer with a love for creating uncomplicated, gourmet recipes and devouring anything the world serves up. As the author of the food and travel blog Cake 'n Knife, Meghan focuses on unique foodie experiences from around the world to right at home in your own kitchen.

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