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Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Helen T. Patterson
Enjoy rich, creamy vanilla chocolate chip ice cream without an ice cream maker.
Sweet, flavorful, and easy to make, this no-churn dessert combines real vanilla, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings for a freezer-friendly treat perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Freeze Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10

Equipment

  • 1 Glass Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Stand Mixer (or handheld mixer)
  • 1 spatula for folding ingredients
  • 1 Loaf Pan or 8-inch Cake Pan (for freezing)
  • 1 Serrated Knife (for chopping chocolate)
  • 1 Plastic Wrap or Lid (for covering)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups 473 ml heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or 1 scraped vanilla bean, or 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 14 oz 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate bar chopped into shavings

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chocolate Shavings:
    Chocolate Prep: Begin by selecting a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate bar for the best flavor—Ghirardelli or a similar brand works beautifully.
    Using a serrated knife, carefully chop the chocolate into small shavings or chunks.
    Aim for pieces that are bite-sized but not too fine, so they retain texture in the ice cream. Set aside about a quarter of the chocolate to sprinkle on top later.
  • Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks: Cream Whipping: Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large glass mixing bowl.
    Add the vanilla bean paste, scraped seeds from a vanilla bean, or a splash of vanilla extract for aromatic sweetness.
    Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until it forms stiff peaks.
    You’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape, and the beaters leave firm ridges without collapsing.
    This step is crucial for achieving a light, airy texture in the ice cream.
  • Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetened Blend: Reduce the mixer speed to low, then slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk.
    Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring it combines fully with the whipped cream.
    Avoid overmixing, as this can deflate the whipped cream and affect the ice cream’s final fluffiness.
    The result should be a smooth, thick, and creamy mixture with a slightly glossy sheen.
  • Fold in Chocolate Chunks: Chocolate Integration: Take a spatula and gently fold in the chopped chocolate pieces, incorporating them evenly throughout the ice cream base.
    Be sure to save some chocolate shavings to sprinkle on top later.
    Folding carefully rather than stirring vigorously helps maintain the whipped cream’s airy texture and ensures each scoop of ice cream will have a satisfying chocolate bite.
  • Transfer to Freezing Container: Ice Cream Assembly: Select a loaf pan, 8-inch cake pan, or any similar freezer-safe container.
    Transfer the ice cream mixture into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
    Sprinkle the reserved chocolate shavings evenly across the surface for a decorative and flavorful topping.
    Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent freezer burn and maintain creaminess.
  • Freeze Until Firm: Freezing Time: Place the prepared container in the freezer. Allow the ice cream to set for a minimum of six hours.
    For best results, leave it overnight. This slow freezing ensures the ice cream firms up evenly while retaining its creamy, scoopable texture.
    Avoid stirring during freezing; let the mixture naturally solidify for the perfect consistency.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serving Delight: When ready to serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly.
    Use an ice cream scoop to portion generous servings into bowls or cones.
    The chocolate shavings on top add a finishing touch of flavor and texture.
    Enjoy your homemade, rich, and creamy vanilla chocolate chip ice cream as a delightful treat anytime!

Notes

  • No-churn recipe that’s simple to make yet rich, creamy, and indulgent.
  • Use high-quality chocolate and real vanilla for the best flavor impact.
  • Gently fold chocolate into whipped cream to maintain a light, airy texture.
  • Adjust the chocolate amount to suit your taste—subtle or decadent.
  • Highly versatile: easy to double or halve depending on portion needs.
  • Perfect for everyday desserts, special occasions, or freezer-friendly treats.