I don’t know about you, but nothing says “comfort” quite like a scoop of homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream. It’s one of those magical creations that combines two beloved treats: creamy ice cream and sweet, chewy cookie dough. I first discovered my love for this delightful dessert during a sweltering summer vacation when my parents took us to a local ice cream shop. I can still remember the thrill of biting into those tiny pieces of cookie dough mixed into rich vanilla ice cream. It felt like I had discovered treasure! Fast forward a few years, and I decided to bring a bit of that nostalgia into my kitchen.
Now, making Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream at home not only satisfies my cravings but also fills my kitchen with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a treat that brings back those warm fuzzy memories, don’t you think? So let me take you through the process of making this delightful dessert yourself!
What’s in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream?
Cream: The base of our ice cream! Heavy cream gives it that luscious texture and rich flavor. I like to use organic, unpasteurized cream whenever possible because it really enhances the overall taste.
Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and balances out the richness of the heavy cream. Full-fat milk is ideal, as it contributes to a smoother ice cream.
Sugar: You can’t have cookies or ice cream without sugar! Granulated sugar sweetens and is essential for the ice cream base.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm flavor that elevates the ice cream and dough. I always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Salt: Just a pinch! Salt enhances all the flavors and prevents the ice cream from being overly sweet.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the secret ingredient in our cookie dough. Make sure to use heat-treated flour to avoid any raw flour issues.
Butter: Unsalted butter is what you want here, giving the dough its signature richness.
Brown Sugar: For a deeper, caramelized flavor in the cookie dough. You can use light brown or dark brown sugar depending on how rich you want the flavor.
Chocolate Chips: The star of our cookie dough! I often mix dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a nice balance, but feel free to use whatever kind you like.
Is Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question when it comes to desserts! While Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream certainly isn’t a health food, it does have its perks if enjoyed in moderation.
Cream: While heavy cream is high in fat, it does provide beneficial nutrients like vitamins A and D. It also offers a satisfying creaminess that makes each scoop feel decadent.
Whole Milk: Offers calcium and protein, which are helpful for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.
Sugar: While sugar gives us a quick energy boost and makes everything sweet, it’s important to watch your intake and aim for moderation.
Chocolate Chips: They do provide antioxidants and can even boost your mood. Dark chocolate is particularly known for its health benefits, so don’t feel too guilty about indulging in a scoop (or two)!
Ingredients
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup chocolate chips
This recipe serves about 6-8 people—unless you’re feeling particularly greedy, in which case it might only serve one!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream?
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20-25 minutes).
3. While the ice cream is churning, prepare the cookie dough. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the heat-treated flour and stir until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Once the ice cream is churned, add spoonfuls of the cookie dough to the ice cream in swirls. Don’t mix it too thoroughly; you want nice chunks of dough.
6. Transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for a few hours until firm.
7. Scoop, serve, and indulge!
Let’s Talk Cookie Dough Ice Cream Variations!
– **Mix-ins:** Feel free to get creative! Add nuts, or a swirl of caramel or fudge for a different flavor profile.
– **Ice Cream without an Ice Cream Maker:** If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, and stir every half hour for the first 2-3 hours. It won’t be quite as creamy but will still taste delicious!
– **Healthier Options:** Consider using coconut cream in place of heavy cream or substituting maple syrup for sugar for a different touch.
You’ve done it! You’ve made your very own Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream, rich with memories and deliciousness. I can’t wait for you to taste it and experience the cozy nostalgia that comes with each bite. So go ahead, dig in, and let me know how it turned out! Happy scooping!
