5 Minute Homemade Ice Cream Recipe

Introduction

Making homemade ice cream doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This quick and easy 5-minute ice cream recipe uses simple ingredients and a clever bag-shaking method to deliver creamy, delicious results fast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup half and half
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups ice cubes
• 1/2 cup salt (or ice cream salt)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the heavy cream, half and half, sugar, and vanilla extract into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag. Seal it tightly and squish the bag to combine the ingredients until the sugar dissolves.
2. Step 2: In a second gallon-sized resealable bag, place the ice cubes and salt.
3. Step 3: Put the bag with the ice cream mixture inside the bag with the ice and salt, then seal the larger bag securely.
4. Step 4: Shake the bags vigorously for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the mixture hardens into ice cream.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, use full-fat heavy cream and chill the mixture before shaking.
• Try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies after the ice cream sets.
• Use flavored extracts such as almond or peppermint instead of vanilla for a different taste.
• Wear gloves or wrap the bag in a towel while shaking to protect your hands from the cold.

Storage

Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Before serving again, let it soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes for easier scooping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular salt instead of ice cream salt?

Yes, regular kosher or table salt works fine, but ice cream salt melts ice faster, helping the mixture freeze more quickly.

What if my ice cream is too soft after shaking?

You can place it in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up before serving. Shaking time may also vary, so shake a little longer next time.

5 Minute Homemade Ice Cream Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 145 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups (serves 4) 1x

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Description

This quick and easy homemade ice cream recipe lets you create creamy, delicious ice cream in just 5 minutes without any special equipment. Using simple ingredients and a clever bag-shaking method, you can enjoy fresh ice cream with minimal effort, perfect for a fun kitchen activity or an instant sweet treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ice Cream Base

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup half and half
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Freezing Mixture

• 2 cups ice cubes
• 1/2 cup salt (or ice cream salt)

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Instructions

1. Combine Ice Cream Ingredients: Pour 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup half and half, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag. Seal it tightly and squish around the mixture actively until the sugar dissolves completely, ensuring a uniform sweet base.
2. Prepare Freezing Bag: In a separate gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, add 2 cups of ice cubes followed by 1/2 cup of salt or ice cream salt. The salt lowers the freezing point of ice, enabling the ice cream mixture to freeze quickly.
3. Seal the Ice Cream Bag Inside: Place the sealed bag containing the ice cream mixture inside the larger bag filled with ice and salt. Seal the outer bag securely to avoid any leaks.
4. Shake to Freeze: Vigorously shake the combined bags for about 5 to 7 minutes. Continue shaking until the mixture inside thickens and freezes into creamy ice cream. This shaking rapidly chills the mixture using the ice and salt’s freezing effect.

Notes

• Use salt specifically for ice cream making if available, as regular table salt works but may not freeze as effectively.
• Ensure both bags are sealed tightly to prevent saltwater from leaking into the ice cream mixture.
• Wear gloves or wrap the bags with a towel while shaking to protect your hands from the cold.
• For variations, try adding mix-ins such as chocolate chips or fruit after shaking the ice cream is mostly solid.
• This method is perfect for a fun cooking activity with kids or quick dessert preparation without an ice cream maker.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: homemade ice cream, no churn ice cream, quick ice cream recipe, easy dessert, ice cream in a bag