4️⃣ Cook the Custard
To thicken the base to perfection:
- Return the custard mixture to the saucepan over low heat.
- Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until it thickens (170-175°F / 77-80°C).
- You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clean line when you run your finger through it.
⏳ Tip: Do not overheat or the eggs will scramble! If this happens, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
5️⃣ Chill the Custard
For the best texture and flavor development:
- Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Stir in vanilla extract and discard the vanilla pod.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
⏳ Tip: A well-chilled base churns better and results in creamier ice cream.
6️⃣ Churn the Ice Cream
Now comes the fun part!
- Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker.
- Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-25 minutes).
- During the last 5 minutes, slowly fold in the macerated strawberries.
⏳ Tip: Adding strawberries too early can cause excess ice formation—adding them at the end keeps them soft and flavorful.
7️⃣ Freeze & Serve
For the perfect scoopable consistency:
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container.
- Freeze for 2-4 hours until firm.
🍦 Scoop, serve, and enjoy this heavenly homemade delight! 🍓
💡 Expert Tips & Variations
✔ Want Extra Creaminess? Add ½ cup sweetened condensed milk to the custard for a richer texture.
✔ Prefer a Smoother Ice Cream? Blend the macerated strawberries into a purée before adding.
✔ No Ice Cream Maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours.
✔ Boost the Strawberry Flavor! Roast the strawberries in the oven for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before macerating.
✔ Make it Lighter! Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
🕒 Time Breakdown
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
⏱ Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
⏱ Churn Time: 25 minutes
⏱ Freeze Time: 2-4 hours
🍴 Servings: 6-8
🎉 Why This Ice Cream is a Must-Try!
This homemade strawberry vanilla bean ice cream is the ultimate summer indulgence—creamy, rich, and packed with real fruit and vanilla flavor. Unlike store-bought versions, it has no artificial flavors or preservatives—just pure, natural goodness.
Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or a solo treat on a hot day, this ice cream is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
🔥 Try it out and let us know—what’s your favorite homemade ice cream flavor? 🍦👇
