Fresh Peach Ice Cream

Cut peaches into chunks and place in a food processor or blender. Cover and process or blend until smooth. Measure 2 cups of the peach puree for the ice cream; cover and chill. Measure and set aside 2 tablespoons of the peach puree for the Chocolate-Peach Sauce (if using). Cover and chill any remaining puree for another use.

In a large saucepan combine half-and-half and sugar. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Gradually stir about half of the hot mixture into the egg yolks. Add yolk mixture to cream mixture in saucepan. Cook and stir about 5 minutes more or until mixture is slightly thickened and coats the back of a metal spoon. Remove from heat. Transfer to a large bowl; cover and cool for 30 minutes. Stir in vanilla.

Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours. Stir in the 2 cups chilled peach puree. Freeze mixture in a 4- or 5-quart ice cream freezer according to the manufacturer's directions. Ripen at least 4 hours. If desired, serve ice cream with Chocolate-Peach Sauce.