Are you ready to indulge in a ridiculously decadent, creamy chocolate ice cream that rivals your favorite store-bought brand? Forget those long lines and overpriced pints! This homemade Ben & Jerry's inspired chocolate ice cream recipe is surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and completely customizable. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with this easy recipe – perfect for a quick dessert or a special occasion. This healthy-ish treat is a wonderful example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking. It's one of the best recipes out there for a satisfying, quick dinner idea or late-night snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk it Up!
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps of cocoa powder. This is key to a smooth and creamy ice cream!
Step 2: Gentle Heating
Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is steaming. Don't let it boil!
Step 3: Cool Down
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool completely. You can speed up this process by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
Step 4: Churn it!
Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Step 5: Add Ins (Optional)
During the last few minutes of churning, add your desired mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
Step 6: Harden Up
Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to harden completely. This allows the ice cream to fully set and reach its optimal texture.
Tips for Ice Cream Success:
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: This will significantly impact the flavor of your ice cream. Dutch-processed cocoa powder provides a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
- Don't rush the cooling process: A warm mixture will result in icy ice cream. Patience is key here!
- Experiment with mix-ins: Get creative! Try adding different types of chocolate chips, nuts, pretzels, cookies, or even caramel swirls.
- Taste and adjust: Before churning, taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or cocoa powder to your liking.
Variations:
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Add a few drops of peppermint extract and Andes mint chips.
- Salted Caramel Chocolate: Swirl in some homemade salted caramel sauce before freezing.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add peanut butter to the mixture before churning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and mix-ins. However, a general estimate for a ½ cup serving without mix-ins is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Around 18-20g
- Sugar: Around 25-30g
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are also surprisingly healthy meals. The richness comes from the quality ingredients, not excess sugar or fat. Enjoy responsibly! You deserve a little deliciousness.