Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of chocolate with the sweet-tart burst of fresh cherries, all whipped into a creamy, dreamy ice cream that melts perfectly on your tongue. This isn't just any ordinary ice cream - this is a homemade masterpiece that will transport you to dessert heaven with every single spoonful. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious summer indulgence, this Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar completely dissolves and mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours until thoroughly chilled.
- While base mixture is chilling, prepare the cherries by pitting and chopping them into small, bite-sized pieces. If using cherry liqueur, gently mix it with the chopped cherries and let them macerate.
- Prepare your ice cream maker according to manufacturer's instructions. Typically, ensure the freezing bowl is completely frozen before starting.
- Pour the chilled cream mixture into the ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's recommended time, usually 20-25 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add chopped cherries and chocolate chips to distribute evenly throughout the ice cream.
- Once churning is complete, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the ice cream to firm up completely before serving.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Make sure your ice cream maker's freezing bowl is completely frozen before churning - this ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor. If fresh aren't available, high-quality frozen cherries work well too.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the chocolate chips lightly before adding them to the ice cream.
- The cherry liqueur is optional, but it adds a sophisticated depth of flavor and helps prevent the ice cream from freezing too hard.
- Allow the base mixture to chill thoroughly before churning - this helps create a smoother, more consistent ice cream.
- When adding cherries and chocolate chips, add them gradually during the last few minutes of churning to ensure even distribution.
- Use plastic wrap directly touching the surface when storing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- For the best texture, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 120mg
