Description
Vanilla Bean Mason Jar Ice Cream is a delightful, homemade treat featuring the classic flavors of rich cream, fresh vanilla bean, and a smooth custard base. Prepared conveniently in mason jars, it is a simple no-churn method perfect for those wanting fresh ice cream without an ice cream maker. The process involves infusing cream and milk with vanilla, tempering egg yolks for a creamy texture, and thoroughly shaking the jars on ice for a smooth, scoopable ice cream that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 3 large egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
- 4 wide-mouth mason jars (16 oz)
- Ice
- 1/2 cup coarse salt
Instructions
- Heat the heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla bean pod in a saucepan until steaming.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla seeds, and salt until the mixture is pale.
- Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and reaches 170°F.
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve and let cool completely.
- Divide the cooled ice cream base evenly among the mason jars, filling each jar one-third full.
- Seal the jars tightly with lids.
- Place the jars in a larger container, surrounding them well with ice and coarse salt.
- Shake each jar vigorously for 15 to 20 minutes to aerate and thicken the ice cream base.
- Let the jars sit for 5 minutes, then shake again until the mixture is thick and creamy.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream and almond milk for the heavy cream and whole milk. Use vanilla extract if vanilla beans are unavailable (1 tablespoon). Make ahead: Prepare the custard up to two days in advance and chill in the fridge before shaking. Store finished ice cream in the jars for up to 1 week in the freezer. If ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften. Ensure jars are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and leaks while shaking. If not thickening, shake longer, and consider using smaller jars for quicker results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (Chill/Shake time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Churn/Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 210mg