Easy No Churn Ice Cream - only 3 ingredients!

Easy No Churn Ice Cream - only 3 ingredients! is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 362 calories per serving. Recipe by Crazy for Crust on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 4 hrs | Total: 4 hrs 25 min

Cost: $4.75 total, $0.59 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream (cold, use a chilled bowl and beaters for best volume)
  • 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk (ensure it is sweetened condensed, not evaporated)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract recommended)

Instructions

  1. Chill Bowl and Beatters

    Place the mixing bowl and the mixer beaters in the freezer for about 10‑15 minutes before starting.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Whip the Heavy Cream

    Add the cold heavy whipping cream to the chilled bowl and beat on medium‑high speed until stiff peaks form.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Fold in Condensed Milk and Vanilla

    Pour the entire 14‑oz can of sweetened condensed milk and the teaspoon of vanilla extract over the whipped cream. Using a spatula, gently fold until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Transfer to Loaf Pan and Cover

    Spoon the mixture into a loaf pan, smooth the top, and press a sheet of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Freeze Until Set

    Place the covered pan in the freezer and freeze for at least four hours, or overnight for a firmer texture.

    Time: PT4H

  6. Serve and Customize

    Remove the ice cream from the freezer, let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften slightly, then scoop into bowls. Add toppings or mix‑ins such as chocolate sauce, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit if desired.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
362
Protein
2 g
Carbohydrates
18 g
Fat
28 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Easy No Churn Ice Cream - only 3 ingredients!

Recipe by Crazy for Crust

A super simple, three‑ingredient vanilla ice cream that requires no ice‑cream maker. Whip cold heavy cream, fold in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, freeze, and enjoy a creamy, homemade dessert. Perfect for hot summer days and endlessly customizable with mix‑ins.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
4h 14m
Prep
1m
Cook
31m
Cleanup
4h 46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.75
Total cost
$0.59
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks (Step 2)
  • Freezing the mixture for at least four hours without disturbance (Step 5)

Safety Warnings

  • Be careful when handling the freezer door to avoid cold burns.
  • Do not over‑whip the cream; it can turn into butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of no‑churn vanilla ice cream in American dessert tradition?

A

No‑churn ice cream became popular in the United States during the mid‑20th century as a way for home cooks to make creamy ice cream without an expensive machine, often using pantry staples like sweetened condensed milk.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of vanilla ice cream in the United States?

A

While plain vanilla is classic, regional twists include adding bourbon in the South, maple syrup in New England, or fresh fruit purées in California, each reflecting local flavors.

cultural
Q

How is no‑churn vanilla ice cream traditionally served in American households?

A

It is usually scooped into bowls or cones and topped with chocolate sauce, sprinkles, fresh berries, or crushed cookies, making it a versatile family dessert.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is no‑churn vanilla ice cream traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

It’s a popular treat for summer barbecues, Fourth of July picnics, and casual family gatherings because it requires minimal equipment and can be made ahead of time.

cultural
Q

What other American desserts pair well with no‑churn vanilla ice cream?

A

Serve it alongside warm apple pie, chocolate brownies, or a slice of pecan pie for a classic contrast of hot and cold textures.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making no‑churn vanilla ice cream?

A

Common errors include under‑whipping the cream, over‑mixing which deflates the air, and not covering the surface tightly, which leads to ice crystals.

technical
Q

Why does this no‑churn vanilla ice cream recipe use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk and sugar?

A

Sweetened condensed milk provides both sweetness and a high concentration of milk solids that prevent ice crystal formation, giving the ice cream a smooth, custard‑like texture without cooking.

technical
Q

Can I make this no‑churn vanilla ice cream ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the base up to Step 4 and freeze it for up to two months in an airtight container; keep it covered with plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the no‑churn vanilla ice cream is done?

A

The ice cream should be firm enough to hold its shape when scooped, with a smooth, creamy surface and no visible ice crystals; a slight softness after a minute at room temperature is normal.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Crazy for Crust specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Crazy for Crust, hosted by Dorothy, specializes in simple, approachable dessert recipes that often require minimal equipment and focus on homemade crusts, ice creams, and quick sweet treats.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Crazy for Crust's approach to dessert cooking differ from other dessert channels?

A

Crazy for Crust emphasizes no‑fuss, three‑ingredient or one‑bowl recipes that can be made with everyday kitchen tools, whereas many other channels rely on specialized equipment or complex techniques.

channel

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