Here’s a classic recipe for Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream Base as adapted from their cookbook. This is their rich, creamy “sweet cream base” that you can customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. It’s straightforward and doesn’t require an ice cream maker, but you can use one for the best texture!
Ingredients needed to make Ben & Jerry’s Homemade
Makes about 1 quart (4 servings)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or other flavoring)
Step by step to prepare Ben & Jerry’s
- Prepare the Base
- Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until they are light and fluffy (about 1-2 minutes).
- Gradually add the sugar while whisking and continue to beat until completely blended and creamy.
- Add Dairy and Vanilla
- Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, then mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the vanilla extract (or other flavoring of your choice).
- Chill the Mixture
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1-2 hours until it’s well-chilled.
- Churn or Freeze
- If using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the ice cream until thickened.
- For a no-churn method, pour the mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals.
- Customize with Mix-Ins
- Once thickened, fold in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, fruit, or candy pieces.
- Final Freeze
- Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-4 hours to firm up before serving.
Why You’ll Love Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream 🍦
- Rich and Creamy Texture
Their signature sweet cream base is perfectly balanced with heavy cream and milk, giving you that luscious, silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth. - Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Made with everyday pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and vanilla, this recipe delivers authentic flavor without artificial additives. - Customizable Creations
Whether you’re a chocoholic, fruit fanatic, or cookie dough lover, this base can be transformed into countless variations with your favorite mix-ins. - Fun and Nostalgic
Ben & Jerry’s is synonymous with indulgence and fun—replicating their recipes at home brings a bit of joy and nostalgia to your kitchen. - Impressive for Any Occasion
Homemade ice cream is a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe is versatile enough for casual summer barbecues or fancier desserts. - Budget-Friendly Treat
Making your own batch costs less than buying premium ice cream from the store, while still delivering the same rich quality. - A Feel-Good Dessert
Inspired by Ben & Jerry’s quirky, socially conscious brand, this recipe is a nod to their passion for great flavors and doing good in the world.
Tips & Tricks:
- For extra richness: Use a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Try adding nuts, candies, fruits, or even cookies.
- Make ahead: Homemade ice cream tastes best when it’s allowed to ripen in the freezer for a few hours.
- Swirl in sauces: For extra flavor, gently swirl in a tablespoon or two of your favorite sauce (like caramel, chocolate, or strawberry) after the ice cream has hardened slightly.
Enjoy your homemade Ben & Jerry’s-inspired ice cream!


ben and jerry’s homemade ice cream recipe
Description
Here’s a classic recipe for Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream Base as adapted from their cookbook. This is their rich, creamy "sweet cream base" that you can customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. It’s straightforward and doesn’t require an ice cream maker, but you can use one for the best texture!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 270kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 17g27%
- Saturated Fat 18g90%
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Sodium 110mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Sugars 23g
- Protein 3g6%
- Vitamin A 90 IU
- Calcium 80 mg
- Iron 0.3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Time Estimate
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1-2 hours
- Churn or Freeze Time: 2-4 hours
Total Time: Approximately 3-6 hours (depending on freezing method)