Rich Vanilla Ice Cream

Ice cream is one of my all-time favorite desserts. I love almost every flavor, and enjoy it unadorned, or pilled high with toppings - it really doesn't matter to me. However, I must admit that my very favorite flavor is still plain ol' vanilla. So simple and unassuming, yet so, so good!

This recipe is really easy to make. You can use half milk and half cream, or if you're feeling really indulgent, go with the original recipe and use 1 cup whole milk, and 3 cups heavy cream - oh my! Both ways are delicious though : )

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream
Adapted from this recipe
Makes 1 quart

1 cup whole milk*
3 cups heavy cream*
3/4 cup sugar (or honey sucanat)
4 egg yolks
2 tablespoons vanilla extract

*(you can use 2 cups milk and 2 cups cream instead)

Place milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan with a heavy bottom. Cook on low, stirring occasionally, until mixture is hot and sugar is completely dissolved. In a small bowl whisk egg yolks together. Slowly add about one cup of cream mixture to yolks, continuing to whisk so as not to cook the yolks. When yolk mixture is smooth, pour into cream mixture, whisking constantly. Stirring constantly, cook over medium heat until mixture thickens, and coats the back of a spoon. (Do not let the mixture boil or it will curdle). Pour through a strainer. Stir in vanilla extract. Allow to chill in the refrigerator. Freeze in an ice cream machine, according to manufacturer's directions. Enjoy!