Description
This Dark Chocolate Chunk Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream is a rich and creamy homemade frozen dessert featuring real vanilla, juicy cherries, and generous chunks of high-quality dark chocolate. Perfect for warm weather or any time you want a decadent, fruity, and chocolaty treat.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Mix-Ins
- 1½ cups sweet cherries, pitted and chopped (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, roughly chopped into chunks
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten the cherries)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth and sweet base for the ice cream.
- Add Cherries and Lemon Juice: Stir in the chopped cherries and, if desired, the lemon juice to enhance the brightness and flavor of the cherries throughout the ice cream.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is thoroughly cold. This step helps improve texture and freezing quality when churning.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, to create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Add Dark Chocolate Chunks: In the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add the chopped dark chocolate chunks so they distribute evenly throughout the ice cream without melting completely.
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top with a spatula, and freeze for 3 to 4 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
- Serve: Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping. Serve and enjoy the luscious combination of dark chocolate, cherry, and vanilla flavors.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate containing 60–70% cacao for the richest, most balanced chocolate flavor.
- Frozen cherries are a great alternative when fresh cherries are out of season; ensure they are thawed and drained before use.
- Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly for easier serving.
- Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
