Vanilla ice cream with chocolate

Vanilla chocolate ice cream - The perfect treat for a warm summer

Total time: 5 hours and 30 minutes (including freezing time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of vanilla chocolate ice cream! This recipe is not just a simple dessert, but an unforgettable experience that combines the sweetness of vanilla with the bitterness of chocolate, creating a perfect taste balance. Homemade artisanal ice cream is more than just a treat; it’s a love letter to fine flavors and moments spent with loved ones.

Before we get started, let’s familiarize ourselves with the ingredients.

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 egg yolks (make sure they are fresh)
- 120 g granulated sugar
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (for an intense vanilla flavor)
- 1 cup (approx. 250 ml) milk (preferably whole, for a richer cream)
- 150 ml liquid cream (make sure it is cold for better whipping)
- 50 g dark chocolate (choose chocolate with 70% cocoa content or more for a deep flavor)

Step by step – Making the ice cream

1. Preparing the ice cream base: In a small saucepan, add the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a whisk or mixer to combine the ingredients. Mix well until the mixture becomes light in color and doubles in volume. This step is crucial, as the incorporated air will make the ice cream fluffier and creamier.

2. Adding the milk: Gradually add the milk, stirring gently with a whisk. It’s important that the milk is at room temperature to avoid curdling the yolks.

3. Cooking the mixture: Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. You will notice the mixture starting to thicken and foaming, which will disappear as the cream thickens. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches a thin cream consistency. This takes about 10-15 minutes.

4. Cooling the cream: Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. To speed up the process, you can place the saucepan in a large bowl of cold water. Stir occasionally to hasten the cooling.

5. Whipping the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm. It’s important not to over-whip it, or you will get butter. Combine the whipped cream with the cooled vanilla cream, gently folding with a spatula to maintain the airiness.

6. Adding the chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces. Carefully fold the chocolate into the ice cream mixture. You will enjoy every bite, as the chocolate will provide a delicious contrast to the creamy vanilla.

7. Freezing the mixture: Pour the mixture into an airtight container and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours. If you have an ice cream maker, you can use this device to achieve a more aerated texture.

Serving and suggestions

Once the ice cream has hardened, it’s ready to serve! You can decorate it with melted chocolate sauce, raspberry syrup, or even fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries. Another unique idea is to sprinkle a little sea salt on top, which will enhance the sweet flavors and create an interesting contrast.

Variations and useful tips

- Flavoring: You can experiment with other flavors by adding a few drops of almond or rum essence to the vanilla mixture.
- Alternative ingredients: Instead of dark chocolate, you can try milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- Dairy-free: If you want a vegan version, you can replace the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and coconut cream.

Nutritional benefits

This vanilla ice cream is a source of calcium and protein, thanks to the milk and eggs. Additionally, dark chocolate contains antioxidants and can provide heart health benefits when consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why should I use fresh eggs? Fresh eggs are essential for ensuring a smooth texture and rich flavor in ice cream.
2. Can I use skim milk? Whole milk provides a creamier texture, but if you prefer, you can use skim milk. You will get a less rich ice cream, but still delicious.
3. What if the ice cream is too hard? If the ice cream has hardened too much, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

This vanilla chocolate ice cream recipe is perfect for enjoying on warm summer days or when you need a sweet treat. I encourage you to try making it at home and savor every spoonful. Enjoy!