Chocolate and coffee ice cream

Chocolate and Coffee Ice Cream – A Refreshing Delicacy at Home

Here is a recipe for chocolate and coffee ice cream that will transform any warm day into a moment of indulgence! This creamy ice cream is perfect for chocolate lovers, bringing together the intense flavors of dark chocolate and the rich aroma of coffee. The history of this dessert is lost in the mists of time, but it was surely created to bring joy and coolness on hot summer days. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Freezing time: 8 hours (plus 15-30 minutes of mixing)
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 4 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 300 ml milk
- ½ vanilla pod (seeds and pod)
- 100 g high-quality dark chocolate (preferably with high cocoa content)
- 200 ml heavy cream
- One cup of warm coffee
- Optional: raisins or chocolate chips for decoration

Necessary Utensils

- Mixing bowl
- Double boiler
- Mixer
- Ice cream maker (or large bowl for manual mixing)
- Containers for freezing

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ice cream maker bowl: Before starting, make sure your ice cream maker bowl has been in the freezer for 8 hours. This step is essential for achieving creamy ice cream.

2. Separating the eggs: In a bowl, carefully separate the yolks from the whites. We only use the yolks to create a rich and creamy base.

3. Preparing the yolk mixture: Add sugar and a pinch of salt over the yolks. Use a mixer to beat them until they become frothy and pale. This will add air and give your ice cream a fine texture.

4. Heating the milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk. Add the seeds from the vanilla pod, as well as the whole pod. Turning off the heat and letting the vanilla infuse the milk will enhance the flavor.

5. Melting the chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces for easier melting. Add the chocolate to the warm milk and stir until completely melted. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to achieve truly delicious ice cream.

6. Mixing the composition: Once the chocolate has melted, let the mixture cool slightly. Then, gradually pour it over the yolks, adding the warm coffee while constantly stirring to prevent the eggs from curdling.

7. Cooking in a double boiler: Place the obtained mixture in a larger bowl over a double boiler. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens slightly. This step is important for homogenizing the ingredients and achieving a fine texture.

8. Cooling the composition: After the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

9. Whipping the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it becomes fluffy but not fully stiff. Gradually add the egg and chocolate cream, gently mixing to retain the air in the whipped cream.

10. Preparing the ice cream: Pour the final mixture into the ice cream maker and let it run for 15 to 30 minutes, according to your machine's instructions. If you don't have a machine, pour the mixture into a bowl and stir every 30 minutes to prevent ice crystals from forming.

11. Adding decoration: If desired, add raisins or chocolate chips in the last minutes of mixing to give your ice cream extra texture.

12. Freezing: Once the ice cream reaches the desired consistency, pour it into containers and place it in the freezer for a few hours to firm up completely.

Serving

To serve this delicacy, take the ice cream out of the freezer a few minutes beforehand to soften a bit. You can serve it plain or with crispy wafers, and for an extra touch of elegance, you can decorate with grated chocolate on top.

Practical Tips

- Choose chocolate carefully: Good quality chocolate makes a difference in the recipe. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor.
- Test flavors: If you want to experiment, you can add flavors like cinnamon or a splash of rum essence to give your recipe a twist.
- Storage: Ice cream keeps well in the freezer for up to a month, but we recommend consuming it sooner to enjoy its freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of milk? Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk, but keep in mind the flavor will vary.
- How can I make the ice cream less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar or choose a more bitter chocolate.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries, or with chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.

Delicious Combinations

This chocolate and coffee ice cream pairs perfectly with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sweet wine. You can serve it alongside a chocolate cake or brownies for a perfect experience.

Conclusion

This chocolate and coffee ice cream recipe is not just a simple delicacy but a true culinary experience. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you will achieve a perfect dessert every time. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's enjoy a delicious summer! Enjoy!