Description
This homemade vanilla soft serve ice cream is creamy, classic, and made with just four ingredients—no machine required! It’s the perfect no-fuss dessert for summer parties, after-dinner treats, or anytime you’re craving that nostalgic soft-serve swirl. Smooth, scoopable, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a freezer favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
2 cups cold whipping cream
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk
Instructions
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the cold whipping cream on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes).
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and whole milk. Stir until smooth.
Gently fold the milk mixture into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream—take your time.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or piping bag. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight, until firm.
Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving. Pipe into cones or scoop into bowls and enjoy!
Notes
For best texture, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
Use high-quality vanilla extract for rich, classic flavor.
To serve soft-serve style, use a piping bag and let the mixture soften slightly before piping.
Store in an airtight container or piping bag in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
Want to switch it up? Try folding in mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit preserves before freezing.