Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe for America's 250th Birthday

As America celebrates its 250th Birthday, what better way to spend the Fourth of July than with family, friends, fireworks, and a freezer full of homemade ice cream?
Making ice cream has been a summertime tradition for generations. Long before air conditioning and modern conveniences, families gathered on porches and under shade trees, taking turns cranking the ice cream freezer while waiting for that first scoop of homemade vanilla.

This recipe has become a favorite around our house. It's rich, creamy, packed with real vanilla flavor, and just might be the perfect dessert for your Independence Day celebration.
Some friends have even claimed it's better than Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla. I'll let you be the judge.
 Happy 250th Birthday, America!
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe Ingredients

• 3 eggs
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
• 1½ cups sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 package (5 oz.) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste(you can use extract, just add a 1/2tsp more)
• 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
• Whole milk or Half & Half! (I prefer Half & Half)

Directions

1. Whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, salt, pudding mix, vanilla bean paste, and bourbon.
2. Pour the mixture into your ice cream freezer canister.
3. Add whole milk until the mixture is about 2 inches from the top.
4. Install the paddle and lid.
5. Pack the freezer bucket with alternating layers of ice and rock salt.
6. Churn according to your ice cream maker's instructions (typically about 1 hour).
7. Remove the paddle and place the canister in the freezer for about 3 hours before serving.

A Few Tips

• The bourbon adds a little depth of flavor and helps keep the ice cream slightly softer.
• Vanilla bean paste provides a richer vanilla flavor and those classic vanilla bean specks. Use extract if you do not want the bean specks!
• For a slightly sweeter-and-saltier balance, increase the salt to ½ teaspoon.

Whether you're celebrating with a backyard cookout, watching fireworks, or spending time with family, this old-fashioned homemade vanilla ice cream is a great way to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

God Bless America, and Happy Fourth of July! 
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