This Easy Brownie Batter Ice Cream is a chocolate lover’s dream! It’s creamy, rich, and filled with fudgy brownie bits. Perfect for hot days or whenever you need a sweet treat!
I love how quick it is to whip up this ice cream! Just mix, freeze, and enjoy. It’s hard to resist sneaking bites straight from the bowl. Who can blame us? 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives the ice cream its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could use half-and-half, but the final product won’t be as rich.
Whole Milk: Full-fat milk is perfect for a smooth ice cream. You can substitute 2% milk, but expect a slightly less creamy result.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is a must for the chocolate flavor. You could use Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper flavor, but make sure to adjust sugar levels since it can be sweeter.
Brownie Pieces: You can use any brownie, store-bought or homemade. If you’re short on time, cookie dough pieces or chopped chocolate bars could be tasty alternatives!
How Do I Make Sure My Ice Cream is Creamy and Not Icy?
To achieve a creamy texture, chilling the mixture before churning is crucial! The colder the mixture, the less ice crystals form. Here’s what to do:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until very cold.
- Pour the chilled mixture into the ice cream maker and churning it for the recommended time creates that smooth, creamy goodness.
Adding the brownie pieces at the end helps maintain their fudgy texture, preventing them from breaking apart during churning. Enjoy your delicious homemade ice cream!
How to Make Easy Brownie Batter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup brownie pieces, roughly chopped (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2 hours to chill. After that, you’ll need another 25 minutes to churn it in the ice cream maker. Don’t forget to allow at least 4 hours for the ice cream to freeze completely before serving. Total time is approximately 6 hours including freezing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Using a whisk, mix them together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the whole milk into the bowl with the cocoa and sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved, resulting in a smooth mixture.
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Now it’s time for the creamy goodness! Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt to the mix. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This is where the magic starts!
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it’s very cold. This step is key for creamy ice cream!
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll see it start to thicken and resemble ice cream!
6. Add Brownie Pieces:
When the ice cream is almost done, sprinkle in the chopped brownie pieces. Stir gently to mix them in evenly. You want those lovely chunks throughout your ice cream!
7. Transfer to Freezer Container:
Take the churned ice cream and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. If you have extra brownie crumbles, sprinkle them on top for a delicious finish!
8. Freeze Until Firm:
Cover the container tightly and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and ready to scoop. Patience pays off!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop out the creamy brownie batter ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy the rich flavors and brownie chunks—perfect for a sweet treat on a warm day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk creates a creamy texture, you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter ice cream. However, using non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk might alter the texture, so keep that in mind!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. However, if you’re avoiding dairy, a full-fat coconut milk can work well, but expect a slight coconut flavor in your ice cream.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks. Remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, as it can harden quite a bit!
Can I Make This Recipe Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes, you can! Simply place the mixture in a freezer-safe container and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork for about 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals. This will help create a smoother texture without an ice cream maker!
