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Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

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This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a dreamy blend of creamy vanilla custard and sweet, fresh strawberries. Made from scratch with real ingredients, it’s a nostalgic yet gourmet frozen dessert perfect for summer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ice Cream Base:

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise (or 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract)

  • 4 large egg yolks

For the Strawberries:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

  • Prepare the Strawberry Mixture:
    In a bowl, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
    Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to macerate.
    Lightly mash to desired texture—chunky with a few whole pieces.

  • Make the Custard Base:
    In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat until steaming.
    Add vanilla seeds and pod (or vanilla extract) and steep for 5–10 minutes.
    Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl. Temper with ½ cup of the warm cream, then return all to the pot.
    Cook gently, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and reaches ~170°F. Do not boil.

  • Chill the Base:
    Strain custard through a fine sieve into a clean bowl.
    Discard the vanilla pod and any curdled egg bits.
    Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely chilled (at least 4 hours or overnight).

  • Churn & Combine:
    Churn the chilled custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    In the final minutes of churning, add the mashed strawberry mixture.
    Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.

  • Serve & Enjoy:
    Scoop and serve on its own or with fresh strawberries, shortcake, or waffle cones.

Notes

  • For a smoother finish, blend strawberries before adding.

  • For a boozy twist, add 1 tbsp vodka to prevent over-hardening.

  • Can be made up to a week ahead—store airtight in the freezer.

Find it online: http://maicook.com/strawberry-vanilla-bean-ice-cream/