Chocolate Ice Cream

Chocolate Ice Cream is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Rich, creamy, and deeply chocolaty, this classic frozen treat is loved by people of all ages. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or served as a comforting dessert after dinner, chocolate ice cream has a way of instantly lifting the mood. Making it at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients, adjust the sweetness, and achieve an ultra-smooth texture that’s often better than store-bought versions.

This homemade chocolate ice cream recipe delivers intense cocoa flavor balanced with a luxuriously creamy base. With simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a dessert that tastes indulgent, pure, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it creates a rich chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. The combination of cocoa powder and real chocolate gives the ice cream depth and complexity, while the creamy base ensures a smooth, scoopable texture. It’s also versatile—you can enjoy it plain or dress it up with your favorite mix-ins.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Rich, authentic chocolate flavor
• Creamy, smooth texture
• Made with simple, high-quality ingredients
• Customizable with mix-ins and toppings
• Better than store-bought ice cream

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling & Freezing Time: 4–6 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 5–6 hours

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 260–290 calories per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / International

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

1. Heat milk, cream, sugar, cocoa, and salt.
2. Melt chocolate into the warm mixture.
3. Chill the base completely.
4. Churn in an ice cream maker.
5. Freeze until firm and scoopable.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat the Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated, but do not boil.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Remove from heat and stir in chopped dark chocolate until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Stir in vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or until completely cold.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20–25 minutes).

Step 6: Freeze Until Set

Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2–3 hours until firm.

How to Serve

• Scoop into bowls or cones
• Top with chocolate sauce or nuts
• Serve alongside brownies or cake
• Garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality cocoa and chocolate for best flavor
• Chill the base thoroughly before churning
• Don’t over-churn to avoid icy texture
• Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping

Variations

Double Chocolate Ice Cream

Add chocolate chips or chunks during the last few minutes of churning.

Chocolate Fudge Swirl

Swirl in warm fudge sauce before final freezing.

Dairy-Free Chocolate Ice Cream

Use full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy.

Mocha Chocolate Ice Cream

Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Freezer Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
• Place parchment paper on top to prevent ice crystals

Serving Tip

• Let soften for 5–10 minutes before scooping

Special Equipment Needed

• Ice cream maker
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Freezer-safe container
• Rubber spatula

Conclusion

Homemade Chocolate Ice Cream is a rich, creamy dessert that proves classic recipes never lose their charm. With its deep chocolate flavor, smooth texture, and customizable options, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll appreciate just how easy and rewarding it is to create this beloved treat at home.