Chocolate Ice Cream with Fresh Berries and Chocolate Chunks

Chocolate Ice Cream with Fresh Berries and Chocolate Chunks

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• ¾ cup sugar

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 100g dark or milk chocolate (chopped)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)

• Mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the base: In a saucepan, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Heat gently on medium flame until warm.

2. Melt chocolate: Add chopped chocolate into the mixture, stirring until it melts completely. Remove from heat.

3. Add cream & vanilla: Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix well.

4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) until very cold.

5. Churn: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy. If you don’t have a machine, freeze in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth.

6. Serve: Scoop ice cream into bowls, garnish with chocolate chunks, fresh berries, and mint leaves. Enjoy immediately or freeze for later.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Simply freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours to break ice crystals, giving a creamy texture.

Q2: What type of chocolate works best?
Both dark and milk chocolate work well. Dark chocolate gives a richer, deeper flavor, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter, creamier taste.

Q3: Can I substitute heavy cream?
You may use half-and-half, but the texture will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well.

Q4: How long does homemade chocolate ice cream last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks in the freezer, though it’s best enjoyed within the first week.

Q5: Why add fresh berries?
The tangy, juicy flavor of berries balances the richness of chocolate, adding freshness, color, and nutrition.

Q6: Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! You can add nuts, caramel swirls, or even cookie chunks to make it more indulgent.

✨ This chocolate ice cream with berries and chocolate chunks is a perfect blend of creamy, rich, and fruity flavors—ideal for dessert lovers!

Would you like me to also give you a sugar-free or low-calorie version of this recipe?