How to Make Homemade Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker

Ice cream is a tasty treat anytime of the year, and if you have a few ordinary ingredients in your refrigerator and on pantry shelves, you can make ice cream without a conventional ice cream maker. Unlike some recipes for homemade ice cream that don't require a hand crank or an electric ice cream maker, metal cans aren't required. With two plastic zipper bags and 5 simple ingredients, you can make homemade frozen treats in a matter of minutes. It's fun and really very easy, and an ice cream maker isn't required!

Necessary Supplies and Ingredients

To make two servings of homemade ice cream without an ice cream maker you'll need 2 cups of whole milk, 4 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. You'll also need ½ cup of table salt, a half-gallon of ice cubes, and 2 gallon-size plastic zipper bags.

Optional Ingredients

Optionally you can make it with cream used for whipped topping if you prefer a thicker richer treat, and you can include a number toppings and stir-ins. Consider adding chopped nuts, bits of candy, or colored sprinkles, and top it with a dollop of whipped topping. You can also use this homemade frozen confection to make shakes and sundaes. Turn ordinary vanilla into frozen flavored treats with strawberry jam, chocolate sauce, caramel, or anything else that's sweet and delicious. Even peanut butter tastes great when added to this homemade treat that doesn't require an electric or old fashioned crank-style frozen confection maker.

Procedure

Begin by filling the first plastic zipper bag halfway with ice cubes and pour the table salt on top of the ice. Close the zipper bag and mix the salt with the ice. The mixture will become very cold very quickly.

Next, pour the milk or cream into the second zipper bag, and add the vanilla and sugar along with any bits of candy or sprinkles. Tightly close the bag containing the ingredients, and place it inside the bag filled with ice and salt. Shake the bag to blend the ingredients for approximately 10 minutes, or until it becomes solid. Once the ingredients are frozen, the mixture is ready to serve and eat.