4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

Introduction

There’s something magical about making ice cream at home without any fancy machines, and this 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream proves that you don’t need an expensive ice cream maker to enjoy a creamy, dreamy dessert. Imagine a rich, velvety texture, the kind that melts slowly on your tongue, paired with just the right amount of sweetness — all made in your own kitchen with only four simple ingredients.

When I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how easy it was. No churning, no special gadgets, and no complicated steps — just mix, freeze, and enjoy. My family loves it, especially during hot summer afternoons, but I’ll be honest… I make it all year round. If you’ve tried my Lemon Cream Cake Recipe, you know I’m all about recipes that look impressive but are secretly super simple. This ice cream is exactly that kind of dessert.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a casual get-together, or just a little treat for yourself, this recipe will be your new go-to. The best part? You can customize it endlessly — think chocolate chips, fresh berries, caramel swirls, or even a hint of espresso.

Ingredients for the Perfect 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

To create this indulgent dessert, you’ll need:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

These basic ingredients are the backbone of the recipe, but feel free to get creative with your add-ins later.

Directions – How to Make 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

1. Chill Your Equipment – Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for 15 minutes. This step helps whip the cream faster and creates a better texture.

2. Whip the Cream – Using an electric mixer, beat the cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

3. Mix the Base – In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

4. Fold, Don’t Stir – Gently fold the whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk mixture. This keeps the texture light and airy.

5. Add Extras – If you’re adding chocolate chips, fruit, or other mix-ins, fold them in now.

6. Freeze – Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 6 hours (overnight is best).

7. Serve & Enjoy – Scoop into bowls or cones and serve immediately.

Why This 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream Works So Well

The secret lies in the combination of whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk. The whipped cream adds air, creating that fluffy texture, while the condensed milk keeps it sweet and creamy without forming ice crystals. The pinch of salt? It brings out the flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.

Tips & Variations for 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

• Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the condensed milk mixture for a rich chocolate flavor.

• Berry Bliss – Swirl in strawberry or raspberry puree for a fruity twist.

• Caramel Swirl – Drizzle caramel sauce into the mixture before freezing for ribbons of sweetness.

• Cookies & Cream – Crush your favorite cookies and fold them in for a nostalgic flavor.

If you enjoy creamy desserts, my Blueberry Sour Cream Pound Cake is another must-try.

Storage Instructions

Store your 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent ice crystals, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing with the lid.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Freeze Time: 6 hours

• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

• Yield: About 1.5 quarts (serves 8–10)

Tools Used

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Mixing bowls

• Rubber spatula

• Freezer-safe container with lid

Healthier Option for 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream

If you want to make this treat a bit lighter, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use unsweetened condensed coconut milk. You’ll still get a creamy texture with a hint of tropical flavor.

Final Thoughts

This 4-Ingredient No-Churn Ice Cream is proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few minutes of prep and a little patience while it freezes, you can enjoy homemade ice cream any time you want. No more store-bought tubs filled with unpronounceable ingredients — just pure, creamy goodness made in your own kitchen.

If you’re looking for more easy, homemade desserts, check out AllRecipes for even more inspiration. And next time you have a craving, skip the ice cream aisle and make this instead — your taste buds will thank you.

Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe

A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole topped with a buttery, crunchy topping — perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients:
• 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
• 1 cup celery diced
• 1 cup onion diced
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers or chips
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Equipment

• : 9x13-inch baking dish, skillet, large mixing bowl, measuring cups/spoons.

Method

 

1. Instructions:
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Cook chicken if not already prepared.
4. Sauté celery and onion until soft.
5. Mix chicken, vegetables, soup, sour cream, mayo, garlic powder, onion powder, 1.5 cups cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread mixture in baking dish.
7. Mix crushed crackers/chips with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
9. Add remaining cheese in last 5 minutes of baking.

Notes

Can be made ahead and baked later. Great for freezing before baking.