Description
This homemade chocolate ice cream recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat made from simple ingredients. Combining the smoothness of heavy cream and whole milk, the deep flavor of cocoa powder, and a hint of vanilla, this easy-to-make ice cream is perfect for chocolate lovers. Optional chocolate chips add delightful bursts of texture and extra chocolate goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
Flavoring
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture over medium heat until all ingredients are dissolved and incorporated, ensuring a smooth chocolate base.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile. Then, let the mixture cool for 10-15 minutes to prepare for chilling.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the cooled chocolate mixture into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours or overnight to develop flavor and achieve the right temperature for churning.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for 20-25 minutes. This process aerates the mixture and begins forming the creamy texture of ice cream.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: During the last few minutes of churning, fold in the optional chocolate chips to add bursts of chocolate texture throughout the ice cream.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and smooth the top with a spatula. Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm and scoopable.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once fully frozen, scoop the homemade chocolate ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy a rich, creamy dessert.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, ensure the mixture is fully chilled before churning.
- Homemade ice cream is best stored in an airtight container to avoid ice crystals.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts or other mix-ins as desired.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture and stir every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until firm.