Vanilla ice cream

Vanilla is frequently used to flavor ice cream, especially in North America, Asia, and Europe. The type of vanilla used to flavor ice cream is unique by each location. In North America and Europe, consumers are interested in a more prominent, smoky flavor, while in Ireland, a more anise-like flavor is desired. Many people often consider vanilla to be the "default" flavor of ice cream (see "plain vanilla").

Vanilla ice cream, like other flavors, was originally created by cooling a mixture made of cream, sugar, and vanilla above a container of ice and salt. To create the smooth consistency of ice cream, the mixture had to be stirred occasionally and then returned to the container to continue the solidification process.