Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No Ice Cream Maker Needed: Easy to make with common kitchen tools.
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Quick and Simple: Minimal ingredients and prep time.
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Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or flavors.
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Creamy and Smooth: Achieves rich texture without churning.
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Perfect for Beginners: Great introduction to homemade ice cream.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
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1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, fruit, nuts, cookie crumbs, or syrups
Directions
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Whip Cream: In a large bowl, beat cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
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Combine Ingredients: In another bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
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Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully combined and smooth.
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Add Mix-Ins: Fold in any desired mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies.
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Freeze: Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container and spread evenly. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap.
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Chill: Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
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Serve: Scoop and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6-8
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Freeze Time: 6+ hours
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Total Time: About 6 hours 10 minutes
Variations
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Chocolate: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the condensed milk before folding.
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Fruit Swirl: Fold in fruit preserves or fresh berries.
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Nutty: Mix in chopped nuts or nut butter.
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Coffee: Add instant espresso powder to condensed milk.
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Vegan: Use coconut cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
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Serving Tip: Let ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
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Avoid Refreezing: Thaw once and avoid refreezing for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
No, heavy cream is necessary for the right texture.
How do I avoid ice crystals?
Whipping cream properly and folding gently helps create a smooth texture.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, freeze overnight for best results.
How do I store leftovers?
In an airtight container in the freezer.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double all ingredients.
What’s the best way to mix in toppings?
Fold them in gently at the end to keep texture.
Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes, vanilla, almond, or peppermint work well.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk substitutes?
Use similar sweetened condensed milk alternatives if dairy-free.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free unless mix-ins contain gluten.
Conclusion
No Churn Ice Cream is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy homemade ice cream without special equipment. With simple ingredients and endless flavor options, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your ice cream cravings anytime.
No Churn Ice Cream
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Servings: 6-8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No Churn Ice Cream is a creamy, homemade treat made without an ice cream maker. With just heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla, this easy recipe delivers rich, smooth ice cream with endless options for mix-ins and flavors—perfect for beginners and quick desserts.
Ingredients
-
2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
-
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, fruit, nuts, cookie crumbs, syrups
Instructions
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Whip Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat cold heavy cream in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
-
Combine Ingredients: In another bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
-
Fold Together: Gently fold whipped cream into condensed milk mixture until fully combined and smooth.
-
Add Mix-Ins: Carefully fold in any desired mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies.
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Freeze: Transfer mixture to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover with a lid or plastic wrap.
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Chill: Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
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Serve: Scoop and enjoy!
Notes
Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to condensed milk for chocolate flavor.Swirl in fruit preserves or fresh berries for a fruity twist.Mix in chopped nuts or nut butter for texture and richness.Add instant espresso powder for coffee flavor.Use coconut cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a vegan version.
