Welcome, food lovers! If you’re craving something cold, creamy, and completely comforting, this no-churn vanilla ice cream is your new go-to treat. No ice cream maker? No problem! With just 3 main ingredients, a hand mixer, and a little freezer time, you’ll whip up a dessert that’s smooth, scoopable, and better than store-bought.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping a family movie night, or just indulging in a sweet summer escape—this ice cream is the perfect finish.
✨ Why This No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream Shines
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No special equipment – All you need is a bowl, a mixer, and a freezer
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Pantry-friendly – Made with simple ingredients you probably already have
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Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins and flavors
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Crowd-pleaser – A hit with both kids and adults
🛒 Ingredients
Yields about 1½ quarts
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2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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½ cup whole milk (optional, for a slightly lighter texture)
Pro Tip: Keep the cream cold until just before whipping to get the best volume!
🧁 How to Make No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream
🥣 Step 1: Set Up Your Space
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Use a clean, dry mixing bowland cold beaters for best whipping results.
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Keep your heavy cream in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
🥄 Step 2: Whip the Cream
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Pour 2 cups chilled heavy cream into the bowl.
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Whip on high speed using a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form (about 3–5 minutes).
Stop as soon as peaks hold their shape—overmixing can turn it buttery!
🍯 Step 3: Prepare the Flavor Base
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In another bowl, mix together:
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1 can sweetened condensed milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup whole milk (if using)
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Stir gently until smooth.
🍨 Step 4: Fold Together
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Slowly add the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream.
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Gently fold using a spatula, preserving the fluffy texture.
Don’t overmix—just fold until no streaks remain.
❄️ Step 5: Freeze
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Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container (a loaf pan works great!).
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Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid.
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Freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best texture.
🍧 Step 6: Scoop & Serve
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Let sit at room temp for 2–3 minutes before scooping.
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Serve in bowls, waffle cones, or top with caramel, chocolate syrup, berries—or all of the above!
💡 Tips for Ice Cream Success
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Scoop smarter: Warm your scoop under hot water for easy servings.
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Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
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Too firm? Let soften 5–10 minutes before serving.
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Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, nuts, crushed cookies, or fruit during Step 4.
🎉 Fun Flavor Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these easy upgrades:
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🍫 Mint Chocolate: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract + ½ cup chocolate chips
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🍓 Berry Blast: Swirl in ¼ cup raspberry or strawberry puree
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🍯 Caramel Crunch: Fold in ¼ cup crushed toffee or caramel bits
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🥜 Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a few spoonfuls of peanut butter before freezing