Double Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe

There's something magical about homemade ice cream, especially when it's packed with deep, rich chocolate flavor. This Double Chocolate Ice Cream is the ultimate treat for chocoholics, combining velvety cocoa with luscious chocolate chunks for a creamy, dreamy dessert.

I first made this recipe on a scorching summer afternoon when a simple chocolate ice cream just wasn't enough. A generous swirl of melted chocolate mixed into a rich custard base took it to the next level. Now, it's a household favorite that disappears as soon as it's ready!

Why You'll Love This Double Chocolate Ice Cream

If you're a fan of rich, creamy, and ultra-chocolatey desserts, this ice cream is about to become your new favorite indulgence.

First, it's incredibly creamy and smooth. The custard base, made with egg yolks and heavy cream, creates a texture that's nothing short of luxurious.

It's also loaded with chocolate in two ways. The combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate ensures every spoonful is packed with deep, intense flavor.

Unlike store-bought ice cream, this recipe lets you control the ingredients. No artificial flavors or preservatives—just pure, decadent goodness made right in your kitchen.

Plus, it's perfect for make-ahead treats. Since it needs to chill before churning, you can prepare the base in advance and freeze it for whenever a chocolate craving strikes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Double Chocolate Ice Cream lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – This combination gives the ice cream its creamy consistency. Heavy cream provides richness, while whole milk keeps it from being too dense.

Cocoa Powder – Use unsweetened, high-quality cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa will give you an even smoother, more intense taste.

Dark Chocolate – A bar of 70% dark chocolate, melted into the custard, adds another layer of indulgent richness. You can also use semisweet if you prefer a milder flavor.

Egg Yolks – These help thicken the custard, giving the ice cream its silky texture. Be sure to temper them properly to avoid curdling.

Sugar & Vanilla Extract – Sugar sweetens the base just right, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the chocolate.

How To Make This Double Chocolate Ice Cream

Creating this rich, creamy ice cream at home is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for the perfect scoop every time.

Start by warming the milk, cream, cocoa powder, and half the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick. This step ensures a smooth custard without any graininess.

Next, temper the eggs by slowly drizzling a ladleful of the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.

Continue cooking the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be patient—this step is key to achieving a smooth texture.

Remove from heat and stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract until fully combined. Then, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.

Let the mixture cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before churning in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Storage Options

Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage keeps it creamy and delicious for days.

Store the ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals from forming. Press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the lid.

For the best texture, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping—it will soften just enough for the perfect consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Here are some delicious ways to customize your ice cream.

Milk Chocolate Version – Prefer a sweeter, milder taste? Swap out the dark chocolate for milk chocolate.

Nutty Twist – Stir in chopped toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans for a crunchy contrast.

Chocolate Fudge Swirl – Drizzle in some homemade hot fudge sauce just before freezing for a marbled effect.

Dairy-Free Option – Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.

However you make it, this Double Chocolate Ice Cream is bound to become a go-to favorite. Get ready to savor every rich, velvety bite!

Print