Pour 1 cup of the heavy cream into a saucepan. Add the sugar and salt. If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the mixture and add the pod to the saucepan.

Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and add the remaining cream, milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk to combine.

Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator. When ready to churn, remove the vanilla pod (if used), whisk the mixture again, and pour it into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Serve immediately for a soft-serve consistency, or transfer to an airtight container and freeze until firm.