A creamy, dreamy homemade chocolate chunk ice cream you can whip up in minutes—no ice cream maker required! This recipe is ultra-versatile, adaptable to multiple diets, and absolutely delicious for summer treats or anytime cravings strike.
🕒 Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Freeze Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
💪 WW-Friendly:
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- SmartPoints: ~5
🥑 Keto-Friendly:
- Carbs: 6g (net)
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
🍋 Slimming World:
- Syns: 0–2 (depends on chocolate choice)
🌿 Mediterranean Style:
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
📝 Ingredients List:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or full-fat coconut cream for Keto/Mediterranean)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) sweetened condensed milk (use sugar-free for WW/Keto)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Chocolate Chunks:
- ½ cup dark chocolate chunks (sugar-free, high-quality, or your favorite bar chopped)
Optional Enhancements:
- 1–2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for extra chocolate depth)
- Pinch of sea salt (to enhance flavor)
👩🍳 Instructions:
-
Whip the Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes with an electric mixer). -
Mix the Base:
Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream—use long, sweeping folds. -
Add Chocolate Chunks:
Fold in chocolate chunks. Add cocoa powder and sea salt if using, folding gently to keep the mixture airy and fluffy. -
Freeze:
Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid. -
Set:
Freeze for at least 4 hours or until fully set and scoopable. -
Serve:
Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before scooping. Garnish with extra chocolate chunks, nuts, or your favorite sauce.
💡 Additional Notes:
- Customize your sweetness level by using unsweetened condensed milk with a natural sweetener (like allulose or monk fruit).
- The cocoa powder makes it a richer chocolate base—totally optional!
🥗 Dietary Info:
- Keto-Friendly (with substitutions)
- WW-Friendly (with sugar-free swaps)
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- No Eggs
- No Ice Cream Maker Needed
🧡 Brief Introduction:
This no-churn chocolate chunk ice cream is proof that making ice cream doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and no special equipment, you get a rich, indulgent treat that’s easily customizable for your lifestyle—whether you’re watching sugar, dairy, or carbs.
🌿 Flavor Tips & Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
- Mint Chip: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract + green food coloring if desired.
- Mocha Buzz: Add 1 Tbsp instant espresso powder to the base.
- Berry Twist: Swirl in fresh or cooked raspberries for a fruity ripple.
🔄 Ingredient Substitutions:
- Heavy Cream: Use coconut cream for dairy-free/keto.
- Condensed Milk: Use sugar-free or dairy-free options to match your plan.
- Chocolate Chunks: Sub with chopped keto bars, cacao nibs, or omit for plain vanilla base.
🍽️ Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Serve With: Fresh berries, crushed nuts, or low-sugar caramel drizzle
- Make Popsicles: Pour mixture into molds for frozen bars
- Mini Versions: Freeze in silicone muffin cups for portion-controlled treats
🧊 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
- Freeze: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Before Serving: Let sit for 5 minutes at room temp to soften for easier scooping.
- Make Ahead: Prep the night before and enjoy anytime—great for parties and cravings!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make it without a mixer?
A: Yes—just use a whisk and a little muscle power to whip the cream, or use chilled coconut cream that firms when stirred.
Q: Will it be icy without an ice cream machine?
A: Not at all! The whipped cream and condensed milk combo keeps it smooth and creamy.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Absolutely—use sugar-free condensed milk and a low-carb chocolate to lower overall sugar content.
📝 Optional Personal Note or Story:
This recipe became my go-to during summer when I wanted a homemade treat without heating up the kitchen. It’s one of those effortlessly impressive desserts that friends always ask about—and I love how easy it is to tweak for any dietary need or mood.