Serious Vanilla Ice Cream

Steps

1. 1Combine the half-and-half and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture until it reaches 175°F on a digital instant-read thermometer, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
2. 2Add the sugar, preserves, vanilla bean, and salt, and keep stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Cover and steep 20 minutes.
3. 3Fish out the vanilla pod and transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or up to overnight.
4. 4Assemble your ice cream churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using an electric machine, turn it on, then pour in the ice cream mixture. This will prevent seizing.
5. 5Churn the ice cream until it reaches soft-serve consistency and almost doubles in volume.
6. 6Move to an airtight container and harden in the freezer for at least 2 hours before serving.