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Homemade Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe

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  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling and freezing times)
  • Yield: 6 - 6.6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Churning
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.