Easy 4-Ingredient Homemade Ice Cream

Creamy, smooth, and delicious—this no-churn ice cream comes together with just four simple ingredients and no ice cream maker required!

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) cold heavy whipping cream
• 1 (14 oz/397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Instructions

1. Whip the Cream
   • In a large chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Mix the Base
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt (if using).
3. Fold Together
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the mixture light and airy.
4. Freeze
   • Pour the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or freezer-safe container.
   • Smooth the top and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
   • Freeze for 6–8 hours, or overnight, until firm.
5. Serve
   • Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

Flavor Variations

• Chocolate: Fold in ¼ cup cocoa powder or ½ cup melted, cooled chocolate.
• Cookies & Cream: Stir in 1½ cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
• Strawberry: Fold in 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries or strawberry puree.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract and ¾ cup mini chocolate chips.
• Salted Caramel: Swirl in ½ cup caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
• Coffee: Dissolve 1 tbsp instant espresso powder in 1 tbsp warm water and mix into the condensed milk.

Storage

• Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks.
• Press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to help prevent ice crystals.

Yield: About 1½ quarts (8 servings).