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Classic Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe


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4.1 from 89 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 35 minutes (+ 4-6 hours chilling and freezing time)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Classic Chocolate Ice Cream is a rich and creamy homemade frozen dessert, delivering deep, intense chocolate flavor. Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a smooth and indulgent treat made with simple, high-quality ingredients.


Ingredients

Ice Cream Base

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Pinch of salt

Richening & Flavoring

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Combine Dairy and Cocoa: In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
  2. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and cocoa fully.
  3. Whisk Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth and slightly thickened to prepare them for tempering.
  4. Temper the Yolks: Slowly pour a small amount of the warm chocolate mixture into the egg yolks while continuously whisking to gently raise their temperature without cooking them.
  5. Thicken the Mixture: Return the tempered egg yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens slightly enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove from Heat and Flavor: Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the chocolate flavor.
  7. Chill the Custard: Transfer the custard to a container and chill thoroughly in the refrigerator, typically for several hours or overnight, to cool completely before churning.
  8. Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  9. Freeze Before Serving: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours for a firm, scoopable texture.

Notes

  • Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor and richness.
  • Store the finished ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and preserve freshness for up to 2 weeks.
  • Chilling the custard before churning is essential for a smooth texture and even freezing.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the final freezing time or serve immediately after churning.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Churning
  • Cuisine: American