Description
This creamy frozen chocolate ice cream recipe yields a rich, smooth, and decadent treat perfect for chocolate lovers. Made with real cocoa powder and chopped dark chocolate, it blends the deep chocolate flavor with the luscious creaminess of heavy cream and whole milk. Churned in an ice cream maker and frozen until firm, this homemade dessert is simple to prepare and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Base
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
Cream Mixture
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure even distribution of flavors and prevent lumps.
- Add Milk and Heat: Stir in the whole milk and place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is hot and the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved, making sure not to let it boil to avoid curdling.
- Melt Chocolate: Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the finely chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Incorporate Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly for a rich, creamy base.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the saucepan and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 to 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the base to chill thoroughly for best churning results.
- Churn Ice Cream: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20 to 25 minutes, until the mixture thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to let it harden to scoopable firmness.
- Serve: Scoop the creamy homemade chocolate ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy the rich, velvety dessert.
Notes
- For a stronger chocolate flavor, use a higher percentage dark chocolate or add a tablespoon of espresso powder during heating.
- Do not boil the milk and cocoa mixture to maintain smooth texture without curdling.
- Chilling the mixture overnight improves texture and flavor development.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, place the mixture in a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until firm.
- Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American