When it comes to indulgent, creamy desserts, vanilla ice cream stands as a timeless favorite. With the growing popularity of homemade ice cream, the Ninja Creami has become a must-have tool for creating delicious ice cream that rivals anything you can buy in the store. Today, we’re diving into the Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream recipe, a rich, creamy, and versatile treat that you can whip up easily in your own kitchen.
This recipe is not only incredibly simple, but it also produces a luscious ice cream without preservatives, artificial flavors, or complicated ingredients. So, whether you’re craving a classic scoop of vanilla or looking for a base to build your favorite flavors, this guide will walk you through every step.
Ingredients for the Best Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
The magic of this Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g thickened cream (also known as heavy cream or whipping cream in the US and UK, or double cream for an even richer texture)
- 150-200g sweetened condensed milk (NOT evaporated milk—this is key to achieving the perfect sweetness and texture)
- 100g full-fat milk (the richness of full-fat milk adds to the creaminess of the ice cream)
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract (for that authentic vanilla flavor)
Choosing the Right Sweetened Condensed Milk
It’s crucial to use sweetened condensed milk rather than evaporated milk or unsweetened condensed milk. This is because the condensed milk provides the necessary sweetness and richness without the need for additional sugar. If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, use 150g of condensed milk. For a more indulgent sweetness, go with 200g.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
1. Weigh and Combine Ingredients
Start by weighing your ingredients directly into the Ninja Creami tub. This eliminates the need for extra bowls and simplifies the process. Add the thickened cream, sweetened condensed milk, full-fat milk, and vanilla bean paste or extract to the tub. The vanilla bean paste adds a more intense flavor than extract, but both work wonderfully in this recipe.
2. Mix Thoroughly
Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the sweetened condensed milk is fully incorporated. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture. Make sure there are no lumps of condensed milk, as this could affect the consistency of the final product.
3. Freeze for 24 Hours
Place the tub into your freezer without the lid for optimal freezing. The mixture needs to be frozen for at least 15-16 hours (24 hours is ideal) to ensure it is hard enough to be processed by the Ninja Creami. If your freezer is particularly cold, it might freeze quicker, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
4. Process in the Ninja Creami
Once your mixture is fully frozen, insert the tub into the Ninja Creami machine. Use the ice cream function to process the mixture. The machine will work its magic, turning your frozen base into a creamy, soft-serve texture.
If the ice cream looks a bit hard or “balled up” after the first spin, don’t worry—just give it another spin to smooth it out. The second spin usually perfects the texture, ensuring the Ninja Creami vanilla ice cream is creamy and luscious.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to scoop out your delicious homemade vanilla ice cream. Serve it plain, with mix-ins, or alongside your favorite dessert. You can even add a pinch of salt for a slightly more complex flavor profile. If you have leftovers, don’t worry—the Ninja Creami can easily re-spin it later without losing the creamy consistency.
Customizing Your Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
One of the best things about this vanilla ice cream recipe is its versatility. Not only can you enjoy it on its own, but you can also experiment with mix-ins or different flavor profiles.
1. Add Your Favorite Mix-Ins
Whether you prefer chocolate chips, cookie crumbles, or fruit, you can easily add mix-ins to your Ninja Creami vanilla ice cream. After the initial spin, you can re-spin with your mix-ins, or simply stir them in before serving. This is where you can get creative—add crushed Oreos, M&M’s, or even brownie pieces for a McFlurry-style treat.
2. Light Vanilla Ice Cream Option
If you’re looking to cut calories or fat, this recipe works well with light dairy products. You can use light condensed milk, light thickened cream, and light milk for a lower-fat version of the ice cream. However, keep in mind that lighter versions may come out softer, more like soft-serve than traditional ice cream. To combat this, try freezing the processed ice cream for an hour to firm up the texture.
3. Lactose-Free and Low-FODMAP Variations
For those with lactose intolerance, this recipe can be adapted using lactose-free ingredients. Simply use lactase drops in your condensed milk and thickened cream, or opt for store-bought lactose-free products. This ensures you can still enjoy this delicious treat without any discomfort.
If you’re following a low-FODMAP diet, making this ice cream lactose-free is an excellent option. Just be sure to choose low-FODMAP mix-ins if you plan to add any extras.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
- Freeze the tub properly: Make sure your freezer is cold enough and avoid overfilling the tub. A flat surface freeze ensures even processing.
- Use quality vanilla: Vanilla is the star of this recipe, so choose a high-quality vanilla bean paste or extract. The richness of the vanilla will shine through in every bite.
- Experiment with flavors: Once you’ve mastered this base recipe, feel free to get creative with other flavors, such as chocolate, strawberry, or caramel.
FAQs: Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
1. Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No, evaporated milk won’t work in this recipe. The sweetened condensed milk not only sweetens the ice cream but also contributes to its creamy texture.
2. Can I make this recipe with dairy-free alternatives?
Currently, this recipe is best with traditional dairy products. However, you can try experimenting with dairy-free options if you wish. We recommend starting with coconut milk or almond milk, though results may vary in terms of texture and flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover ice cream can be stored in the freezer with the lid on the tub. You can re-spin the ice cream using the Ninja Creami machine when you’re ready to enjoy more. Even after a few hours in the freezer, the ice cream should remain scoopable and creamy without needing to be re-spun.
4. Can I make a vegan version?
We’re currently experimenting with vegan versions of this recipe. Keep an eye out for a future guide using non-dairy alternatives that provide the same creaminess without any compromise on flavor.
5. Why is my ice cream making noise during processing?
The Ninja Creami machine can be quite loud when processing certain mixtures, especially those with a higher fat content like this one. Don’t worry—this is normal and won’t damage your machine.
The Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy rich, creamy ice cream from the comfort of your own home. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that’s as good as—or better than—anything you can buy in the store. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade vanilla ice cream!
