Vanilla Ice Cream

In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, egg yolks, and salt. Place pan over medium- high heat and whisk until mixture reaches a simmer. Lower heat to medium and whisk for 5 minutes or until mixture begins to thicken. Strain mixture into a large bowl, then whisk in half-and- half, cream, and vanilla. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours.

Pour mixture into ice-cream maker; process according to manufacturer instructions.

Chocolate Ice Cream Variation: After straining mixture in step 1, add 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Continue with recipe.

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Variation: In step 1, substitute 1 teaspoon peppermint extract for 1 teaspoon vanilla. Once ice cream's made, stir in 2 cups mini chocolate chips.

Peanut Butter Ice Cream Variation: After straining mixture in step 1, add 1 cup smooth peanut butter and stir until fully incorporated. Continue with recipe.