Delicious French Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

1. 1

   Prepare the custard base

   In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves.

   Do not bring to a boil.
2. 2

   Whisk egg yolks

   In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and slightly thickened.

   This helps create a creamy texture.
3. 3

   Temper the egg yolks

   Slowly add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously to avoid curdling.

   This process is called tempering.
4. 4

   Cook the mixture

   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.

   It should coat the back of a spoon.
5. 5

   Add vanilla flavors

   Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste if using.

   Let it cool to room temperature.
6. 6

   Chill the custard

   Cover and refrigerate the custard for at least 4 hours or overnight.

   Chilling improves the flavor.
7. 7

   Churn the ice cream

   Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.

   This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
8. 8

   Freeze the ice cream

   Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

   This helps firm it up.

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