You Will Never Buy Ice Cream Again! Only 3 Ingredients, Make This Ice Cream in 5 Minutes
Introduction
If you’ve ever craved ice cream but didn’t want to run out to the store, you’re in for a treat! This 3-ingredient ice cream recipe is a game changer—it’s creamy, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make in just 5 minutes. No churn, no ice cream maker, and no complicated steps. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on a hot day, surprising guests with a homemade dessert, or whipping up a quick snack for the kids. With only three simple ingredients—whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract—you can create an irresistibly smooth, homemade ice cream that will have you ditching store-bought versions for good. Plus, it’s completely customizable! Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts to make it your own. Get ready to make ice cream the easiest part of your day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this simple ice cream, you’ll need: 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. That’s it! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit if desired, but the base only requires these three ingredients.
Whipping the Cream
Start by whipping the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed to beat the cream until stiff peaks form. This means the whipped cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters out of the bowl—think fluffy clouds of cream! Be careful not to over-whip, as it could turn into butter. This step is what gives the ice cream its creamy texture without the need for an ice cream maker.
Mixing in the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Once the whipped cream is ready, gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. You can use a spatula for this step to keep the mixture light and airy. Be sure not to deflate the whipped cream too much—fold until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This condensed milk is what gives the ice cream its rich, sweet flavor and silky consistency.
Freezing the Ice Cream
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, glass container, or any dish that will fit in your freezer. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the ice cream in the freezer and allow it to set for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for the best texture. The longer it freezes, the firmer it will become.
Serving Suggestions
Once frozen, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes before scooping—this will make it easier to scoop and serve. You can serve it as is, or top it with your favorite toppings such as chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or fresh fruit. Want a little extra flair? Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of crushed cookies for some crunch. It’s also perfect served alongside homemade brownies or a warm slice of pie.
Tips for the Best Ice Cream
Make sure your heavy cream is cold for the best results when whipping it. If you want a thicker, richer ice cream, you can double the amount of heavy cream. Feel free to get creative with mix-ins—chocolate chips, marshmallows, crushed nuts, or fruit are all fantastic additions. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. This ice cream will last up to a week in the freezer, but we doubt it’ll last that long!
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Fold in ¼ cup cocoa powder with the sweetened condensed milk for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Berry Swirl: Add mashed berries like strawberries or raspberries into the mixture for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for a crunchy texture.
- Coffee Ice Cream: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules for a coffee-flavored ice cream that’s perfect for coffee lovers.
- Cookies & Cream: Crush up your favorite cookies and fold them into the mixture for a homemade cookies & cream experience.
Storing and Freezing
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week (if it lasts that long!). You can also scoop individual portions into bowls or cones for a fun, single-serving treat. If the ice cream becomes too hard after being in the freezer, simply let it sit out for a couple of minutes before scooping to soften it up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 3-ingredient ice cream is the ultimate treat when you want something sweet and cold, but don’t want to spend hours preparing or churning. It’s simple, customizable, and requires ingredients you likely already have at home. The best part? No ice cream maker is needed, so you don’t have to worry about complicated gadgets or freezer bowls. The result is a smooth, creamy, and decadent homemade ice cream that rivals anything you’d get at the store.
Conclusion
Say goodbye to store-bought ice cream and hello to your new favorite homemade dessert! This 3-ingredient ice cream is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family treat, or just because you crave something sweet, this recipe delivers every time. With endless flavor possibilities, you’ll never need to buy ice cream again. Make it today and enjoy a homemade dessert that’s simple, creamy, and utterly delicious.