Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-churn chocolate ice cream is the epitome of simplicity and indulgence. With just three ingredients—heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and cocoa powder—you can create a rich, creamy dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the need for an ice cream machine, this recipe delivers a homemade treat that’s better than store-bought.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Whip – In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Blend – Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder until fully combined.
Freeze – Pour the mixture into a loaf pan, cover, and freeze until solid.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze Time: 4 hours or until solid

Variations

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips before freezing.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Add ½ cup of peanut butter and swirl it through the mixture before freezing.
Mint Chocolate Chip: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1 cup of chocolate chips.

Storage/Reheating

Store the ice cream in an airtight container or cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap. It will keep well in the freezer for up to two weeks. No need to reheat; simply scoop and enjoy directly from the freezer.

FAQs

How long does homemade chocolate ice cream last?

Homemade chocolate ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks.

Can I use a different type of cream?

Heavy cream is recommended for its ability to whip into stiff peaks and provide a creamy texture. Substituting with other creams may affect the consistency.

Is it necessary to use unsweetened cocoa powder?

Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal as it allows the sweetness from the condensed milk to shine through without being overly sweet.

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be made without an ice cream maker, making it convenient and accessible.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or candy?

Yes, feel free to fold in your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or candy pieces, before freezing.

Why is my ice cream hard to scoop?

If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream is preferred for its fat content, which contributes to the creamy texture. Using milk may result in a less creamy ice cream.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Ensure the mixture is well-blended and stored in an airtight container to minimize the formation of ice crystals.

Can I use sweetened cocoa powder?

It’s best to use unsweetened cocoa powder to control the sweetness of the ice cream. Sweetened cocoa powder may make the ice cream too sweet.

Conclusion

This 3-ingredient creamy chocolate ice cream is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Its simplicity, combined with a rich and creamy texture, makes it a go-to recipe for satisfying chocolate cravings. Whether enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings, this homemade ice cream is sure to impress.