Vanilla ice cream with chocolate topping

Vanilla Ice Cream with Chocolate Topping - A Homemade Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

A brief story about ice cream

Vanilla ice cream is a dessert that has transcended centuries, being adored by generations. It is said that ice cream was invented by the Greeks, and over time, each culture has brought its own variations. Vanilla, derived from orchids, has long been considered a precious and exotic ingredient, and its combination with milk and sugar has made this ice cream a classic dessert. In today's recipe, we will explore how to achieve a creamy ice cream with a decadent chocolate topping, perfect for warm days or as a treat after a special dinner.

Necessary ingredients

- 400 ml whole milk
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 vanilla pod (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
- 500 ml cream (ideally freshly whipped)
- 200 g sugar

A few tips about the ingredients

- Milk: Use whole milk for a creamier texture. Skim milk will not provide the same consistency.
- Egg yolks: These are essential for emulsifying the mixture and achieving a smooth ice cream.
- Vanilla pod: It is much more aromatic than vanilla extract. Make sure to slice it lengthwise and extract the seeds to maximize flavor.
- Cream: Whip the cream until it becomes firm, but do not turn it into butter. This will contribute to the lightness and creaminess of your ice cream.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ice cream base
Start by combining the milk and sugar in a medium-sized pot. Mix well to dissolve the sugar. Add the egg yolks and the vanilla pod (with the extracted seeds). You can use a silicone spatula to avoid lumps.

2. Heating the mixture
Place the pot over medium heat. Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon, being careful not to let the mixture boil. It is very important to keep stirring to prevent lumps from forming. When the mixture begins to thicken and coats the bottom of the pot, it is time to turn off the heat.

3. Cooling the mixture
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to chill completely for about 2 hours.

4. Whipping the cream
After the mixture is well chilled, whip the cream in a separate bowl until it becomes firm. It is important not to overwhip it, or it will turn into butter.

5. Incorporating the cream
Add the whipped cream to the cooled ice cream mixture using a spatula. Gently fold in with up-and-down motions to keep the air in the cream and achieve a light and creamy texture.

6. Freezing the ice cream
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and cover it. Place it in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until the ice cream is completely solidified. If the ice cream becomes too hard, you can leave it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

7. Preparing the chocolate topping
You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preferences. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Let it cool slightly before drizzling it over the ice cream.

8. Serving
Serve the vanilla ice cream in cups or cones, generously drizzled with the chocolate topping. You can add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving suggestions

For an even more enjoyable experience, vanilla ice cream with chocolate topping pairs perfectly with caramel sauce or berry puree. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine or a cappuccino can perfectly complement this dessert.

Variations and tricks
If you want to add a twist to your recipe, you can replace part of the milk with coconut milk for an exotic taste. You can also add chocolate chips or hazelnuts to the ice cream mixture before freezing.

Frequently asked questions

- Why do lumps form in the mixture?
This happens if the mixture is allowed to boil. It is important to stir constantly and keep the temperature at a medium level.

- How can I prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard?
Stir the ice cream every hour during the first few hours of freezing. This will help break the ice crystals and maintain a creamy texture.

- Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but the result will be different. Make sure to choose unsweetened plant milk to maintain flavor balance.

Nutritional benefits

Vanilla ice cream is a good source of calcium and protein due to the milk and egg yolks. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be a healthy part of your diet.

Estimated calories

This ice cream recipe contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or with various toppings, this vanilla ice cream with chocolate will surely become a family favorite. So put on your apron and get ready to enjoy a homemade dessert that combines tradition with flavor!