This Easy Coffee Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a perfect mix of rich coffee flavor and sweet chocolate chips. It’s creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love how quick this recipe is! Just blend, freeze, and scoop. It’s my go-to treat when I want something sweet and refreshing after a long day. 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream gives the ice cream its luxurious texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the ice cream will be less creamy.
Whole Milk: Whole milk helps balance the richness of the cream. You can substitute it with low-fat milk, but the ice cream won’t be as rich. However, oat milk or almond milk are great dairy-free options if you prefer non-dairy alternatives!
Instant Coffee Granules: Instant coffee serves the base flavor here. Espresso powder is a fantastic alternative and offers a richer taste. If you don’t have either, you can also use freshly brewed strong coffee, but reduce the amount of milk slightly to keep the texture smooth.
Chocolate Chips: I always go for mini chocolate chips because they distribute easily throughout the ice cream. If you have regular chocolate chips, they’ll work too—just chop them up a bit! Dark chocolate chips or even dairy-free chips can cater to different taste buds and dietary needs.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Ice Cream?
For the creamiest texture, it’s essential to mix the ingredients well before churning. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk the milk, sugar, and coffee granules thoroughly until everything is dissolved. This step is crucial!
- Add the heavy cream and vanilla, blending gently to combine without over-aerating. Bubbles can lead to a grainy texture.
- When churning, don’t skip the last five minutes. Adding the chocolate chips then ensures they’re evenly distributed and won’t sink to the bottom.
- Once churned, a smooth transfer to the container will prevent ice crystals from forming. Use a spatula to press the ice cream down tightly.
Keep the ice cream covered in the freezer to maintain its texture. Enjoy your homemade treat!
How to Make Easy Coffee Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules or espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy coffee chocolate chip ice cream recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus about 20-25 minutes for churning in the ice cream maker, and finally, at least 4 hours to freeze. So, plan for a total of around 4 hours and 35 minutes from start to enjoying your delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, and instant coffee granules. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved and the coffee is mixed in well. This is key to ensuring a smooth ice cream texture!
2. Add the Cream and Vanilla:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Gently stir the mixture until everything is fully combined. You want a smooth consistency without too many bubbles.
3. Churn the Ice Cream:
Now, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream thickens. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes and should reach a soft-serve consistency.
4. Mix in the Chocolate Chips:
During the last 5 minutes of churning, sprinkle in the mini chocolate chips. This timing allows them to distribute evenly throughout your ice cream without sinking to the bottom.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Once the churning is complete, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top using a spatula to help prevent ice crystals from forming. Seal tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
6. Final Freeze:
Place the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop. Your patience will pay off when you taste the final product!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, scoop the creamy coffee chocolate chip ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy every delightful bite of this rich and refreshing treat!
This recipe yields a smooth and creamy ice cream base with a delightful coffee flavor, complemented by sweet chocolate chips—perfect for coffee lovers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Decaf Coffee Granules?
Absolutely! Decaf coffee granules will work just as well in this recipe to provide the coffee flavor without the caffeine kick. Perfect for enjoying a late-night treat!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 weeks, but for the best texture, try to consume it within a week. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it. Every 30-60 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals, repeating until the ice cream is smooth and frozen, usually about 4-6 hours.
What Other Mix-Ins Can I Use?
You can customize this ice cream with various mix-ins! Consider adding crushed cookies, nuts, or even caramel swirls for a fun twist. Just make sure they’re added during the last few minutes of churning for even distribution!
