Stracciatella Ice Cream
Stracciatella Ice Cream is a creamy, indulgent Italian dessert that combines the smoothness of vanilla gelato with crunchy, delicate chocolate shards. This homemade ice cream recipe results in a rich, velvety treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're using an ice cream maker or a no-churn method, the final result is a delicious, refreshing dessert with the ideal balance of flavors and textures. Simple to prepare with a few quality ingredients, this Stracciatella ice cream is sure to impress your guests or simply treat yourself.
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (if available) – 1 unit
- Medium Saucepan: 1 unit
- Large Mixing Bowls (2 units)
- Whisk: 1 unit
- Fine Mesh Strainer – 1 unit
- Spatula: 1 unit
- Airtight Freezer Container – 1 unit
- Double Boiler or Microwave-safe Bowl – 1 unit (for melting chocolate)
Ingredients
- 1 cup 240ml Heavy Cream
- 1 cup 240ml Whole Milk
- 4 large Egg Yolks
- 3/4 cup 150g Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 4 oz 115g Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate (chopped or in chunks)
Instructions
Prepare the Custard Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not bring to a boil). In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and slightly thickened.
Temper the Eggs:
- Gradually pour a small amount of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. Slowly add the rest of the cream mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
Cook the Custard:
- Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil. Test by running your finger through the custard on the spoon—if it leaves a clear line, it’s ready.
Strain and Chill the Custard:
- Remove the custard from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once the custard is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning (about 20-25 minutes), until the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency.
Add Chocolate Shards:
- While the ice cream is churning, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly. When the ice cream is almost done churning, slowly pour the melted chocolate into the ice cream, allowing it to form thin shards as it freezes.
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and smooth the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until the ice cream is firm and scoopable.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop your Stracciatella ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness!
Notes
- Chocolate Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate provides a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the vanilla ice cream, while semi-sweet chocolate strikes a balance between the two.
- Egg-Free Option: For a lighter, egg-free version, you can make a custard-free base using just milk, cream, and sugar. You can thicken the mixture with a small amount of cornstarch if desired.
- No Ice Cream Maker? No problem! If you don't have an ice cream maker, place the chilled custard mixture in a shallow pan in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to prevent ice crystals from forming and create a smoother texture.
- Storage: Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks of making. Be sure to store it in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness.
- Add-Ins: If you love texture, feel free to add roasted nuts, candied fruits, or crushed cookies to the ice cream after churning for additional flavor and crunch.