3 Ingredient Ice Cream – The Simplest Homemade Treat
Who knew you could make amazing ice cream with just three ingredients? This 3 ingredient ice cream recipe is so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought. No fancy equipment needed – just basic ingredients and a little patience while it freezes.
Whether you’re looking for a vanilla ice cream recipe without cream or want to try making evaporated milk ice cream, this method works perfectly. The result is creamy, dreamy homemade ice cream that rivals any premium brand.
What You’ll Learn
3-Ingredient No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream (Easy Homemade Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream (1 pint)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
No-Churn Instructions:
- Combine all ice cream ingredients in a blender. Blend on low until fully mixed, but do not over-blend. If no blender is available, use an electric hand mixer in a large mixing bowl instead.
- Transfer the ice cream mixture to a freezer-safe container, seal it, and freeze for at least 5 hours or until completely firm.
- Let the ice cream sit on the counter for a few minutes to soften before serving. Scoop into bowls and enjoy.
Instructions for Using an Ice Cream Maker:
- Freeze the ice cream maker bowl overnight or prepare it according to your model's instructions beforehand.
- Combine all ice cream ingredients in a blender. Blend on low speed until fully mixed, but do not overblend to prevent an icy texture.
- Prepare your ice cream maker. Pour the vanilla ice cream base into the frozen bowl. Turn on the machine and churn until thick and the machine slows.
- Serve immediately for soft-serve texture or freeze in an airtight container for 2 hours. Thaw 2–5 minutes before scooping.
Nutrition
Why This 3 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipe Works
The magic of this 3 ingredient homemade ice cream lies in the chemistry of evaporated milk. When you remove about 60% of the water from regular milk, you get a thicker, creamier product perfect for ice cream with minimal ingredients.
Unlike traditional recipes that require heavy cream and eggs, this version uses evaporated milk as the base. It’s one of the best ways to make homemade ice cream using evaporated milk without sacrificing texture or flavor.
The Science Behind Simple Ice Cream
Evaporated milk has less water content than regular milk, which means fewer ice crystals form during freezing. This results in smoother 3 ingredient ice cream with milk that doesn’t get icy or grainy.
The sugar in the recipe lowers the freezing point, keeping your low ingredient ice cream scoopable straight from the freezer. No rock-hard blocks here!
The Perfect 3 Ingredients
You only need three simple items to make this three ingredient ice cream:
1. Evaporated Milk
The star of this evaporated milk ice cream recipe. Use full-fat evaporated milk for richest results. It creates the perfect base for ice cream recipe using evaporated milk without needing heavy cream.
2. Granulated Sugar
Sweetens and improves texture. For how to make ice cream with evaporated milk that’s not too sweet, you can reduce sugar slightly.
3. Pure Vanilla Extract
Adds classic flavor to your 3 ingredient vanilla ice cream. For variety, try other extracts like almond or mint.
That’s it! With these three pantry staples, you can make homemade ice cream made with evaporated milk whenever the craving strikes. No special trips to the store required.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this 3 ingredient ice cream recipe couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to create magic with minimal effort:
1. Mix the Base
Combine one can of evaporated milk with ¾ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Whisk until sugar dissolves completely. This is the foundation of your homemade ice cream recipe with evaporated milk.
2. Chill Thoroughly
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for how to make ice cream at home with perfect texture. Cold ingredients freeze better.
3. Freeze Properly
Pour into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4-6 hours, stirring every hour for the first 3 hours. This prevents ice crystals in your ice cream with minimal ingredients.
For those with an ice cream maker, you can use this same base in your machine following manufacturer’s instructions for evaporated milk ice cream recipe with machine.
Delicious Flavor Variations
Once you master the basic 3 ingredient homemade ice cream, try these tasty twists:
Chocolate Dream
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the base mixture for rich chocolate three ingredient ice cream.
Fruit Swirl
Fold in ½ cup pureed strawberries or peaches for fruity how to make ice cream with 3 ingredients that’s bursting with flavor.
Coffee Buzz
Mix in 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules for adults-only can you make ice cream with evaporated milk that’s cafe-quality.
Discover more easy dessert recipes on our site, including other frozen treats that use simple ingredients.
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture
Follow these expert suggestions for the best home made ice cream ingredients results:
1. Quality Matters
Use full-fat evaporated milk for creamiest 3 ingredient ice cream with milk. The extra fat makes all the difference.
2. Dissolve Completely
Ensure all sugar dissolves before freezing to prevent graininess in your ice cream recipe using evaporated milk.
3. Stir Strategically
That hourly stirring during the first freeze is key for smooth how to make ice cream with milk and eggs-free texture.
4. Storage Smarts
Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before freezing to prevent ice crystals on your low ingredient ice cream.
For more kitchen inspiration, check out our Pinterest board full of creative recipe ideas.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker
Craving creamy, dreamy ice cream but don’t have a machine? This 3 ingredient ice cream recipe is your answer. With just heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract, you can whip up a batch of no churn vanilla ice cream in minutes. No fancy equipment needed—just a bowl, a whisk, and a freezer.
Why This No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream Works
The magic of this homemade ice cream with condensed milk lies in its simplicity. Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and sweetness, while whipped heavy cream creates that luscious, airy texture. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor, but you can easily customize it with mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or cookie crumbs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Whip the cream: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This usually takes 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Fold in condensed milk: Gently pour in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to fold everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or airtight container. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: Scoop and enjoy! No need to thaw—this ice cream stays creamy straight from the freezer.
Tips for the Best Homemade Ice Cream with Condensed Milk
- Use cold cream: Chilled cream whips faster and holds its shape better.
- Don’t overmix: Fold gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Customize it: Add cocoa powder for chocolate ice cream, swirl in caramel, or mix in crushed cookies.
- Storage: Keep it in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals.
Variations to Try
This 3 ingredient ice cream base is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious twists:
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips before freezing.
- Strawberry Swirl: Layer the ice cream with homemade strawberry sauce.
- Cookies & Cream: Crush 8-10 Oreos and mix them in.
- Coffee: Add 1 tbsp instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
Why No Churn Ice Cream is a Game-Changer
Traditional ice cream requires churning to break up ice crystals, but this no churn vanilla ice cream skips that step entirely. The whipped cream incorporates air, giving it a smooth, scoopable texture without an ice cream maker. Plus, it’s foolproof—no worrying about over-churning or under-churning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use evaporated milk instead of condensed milk?
No, evaporated milk isn’t sweetened and won’t give the same creamy texture.
How long does it last in the freezer?
Up to 2 weeks, though it’s best enjoyed within the first few days.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
The Science Behind This Easy Ice Cream
This homemade ice cream with condensed milk works because sweetened condensed milk lowers the freezing point, preventing it from becoming too hard. The fat in the heavy cream ensures a rich mouthfeel, while the whipped air bubbles keep it light. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Take your 3 ingredient ice cream to the next level with these serving ideas:
- Top with hot fudge and sprinkles for a classic sundae.
- Layer it between cookies for an ice cream sandwich.
- Drizzle with salted caramel and sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Serve alongside warm pie or brownies for the ultimate dessert.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too icy? Make sure your cream is whipped to stiff peaks and fold gently.
- Too soft? Freeze it longer—overnight is ideal.
- Not sweet enough? Add a tablespoon of powdered sugar to the cream while whipping.
Final Thoughts
This no churn vanilla ice cream proves you don’t need fancy equipment to make decadent desserts. With just three ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy creamy, homemade ice cream anytime. Whether you stick with classic vanilla or experiment with flavors, this recipe is a keeper.
