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Easy No-Churn Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe with Fresh Berries at Home

no-churn vanilla bean ice cream - featured image

A simple and foolproof no-churn vanilla bean ice cream recipe that delivers rich, creamy texture and authentic vanilla flavor, topped with fresh berries for a bright, tart contrast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) cold heavy cream
  • 1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 whole vanilla bean pod, split and scraped
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 cups (150300 g) fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries mix)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Using a sharp knife, carefully split the vanilla bean pod lengthwise. Scrape the tiny black seeds out with the back of the knife and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, pour the cold heavy cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with the vanilla bean seeds and vanilla extract. Stir well to evenly distribute the seeds.
  4. Gently fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula, using slow, careful motions to keep it light and airy.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
  6. Place the container in the freezer for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to firm up without churning.
  7. Just before serving, rinse and gently pat dry the fresh berries. Toss with lemon zest if using to brighten the flavor.
  8. Scoop the vanilla bean ice cream into bowls or cones and top with the fresh berry medley.

Notes

If the ice cream is too firm after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk. Use high-quality vanilla extract if vanilla bean pod is unavailable, but flavor will be less intense. Tightly seal container to avoid freezer burn. Whip cream to stiff peaks for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-churn ice cream, vanilla bean ice cream, easy ice cream recipe, homemade ice cream, fresh berries dessert, summer dessert, no ice cream maker