This Easy Brownie Batter Ice Cream is a sweet treat that combines rich brownie batter and smooth vanilla ice cream. It’s a perfect mix of chewy and creamy!
Making this ice cream is a breeze! Just mix, churn, and freeze. I love adding extra brownie chunks for that delightful surprise in every bite. What’s not to love? 🍫🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Whipping Cream: This ingredient gives your ice cream that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but it won’t be as creamy.
Whole Milk: Whole milk is great for a balanced flavor. You can substitute it with 2% milk, but it’ll be a bit less creamy. Nut milk alternatives like almond or oat milk can also be used, but check that they are unsweetened for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar sweetens up the ice cream nicely. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using a sweetener like honey or agave syrup, adjusting to taste.
Brownie Batter: Use a store-bought brownie mix if you want convenience. You can also make your own batter or use leftover brownie batter from another recipe to keep it consistent and easy.
Brownie Chunks: I recommend using your favorite brownies here! If you’re short on time, store-bought brownies can save you the baking hassle.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Texture in Ice Cream?
The key to creamy ice cream lies in how you handle the ingredients and the churning process. Start by whisking the heavy cream, milk, and sugar thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely; this helps with even texture.
- When stirring in the brownie batter, do so gently to create swirls, rather than mixing too much. This adds to the delightful texture!
- Make sure your ice cream maker is cold enough before you pour in the mixture; it helps achieve that soft-serve consistency more quickly.
- Finally, freezing the churned ice cream in an airtight container is crucial to firm it up properly. Patience is key here!
How to Make Easy Brownie Batter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brownie batter (can use prepared brownie mix for eating, raw or baked pieces)
- 1 cup brownie chunks (baked brownies, cut into small pieces)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25 minutes for churning, and then you’ll need to freeze it for at least 2-3 hours to set. So, total time is around 3-3.5 hours, but most of that is just waiting for it to freeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep mixing until the sugar is fully dissolved. This ensures a smooth and creamy ice cream base!
2. Add the Brownie Batter:
Gently stir in the 1/2 cup of brownie batter into the cream mixture. Fold it in carefully to create swirls in the mixture without fully blending them, as we want those delicious brownie flavor hints throughout.
3. Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions—typically this takes about 20-25 minutes. You want it to reach a soft-serve-like consistency.
4. Mix in the Brownie Chunks:
About 5 minutes before your ice cream is done churning, add the brownie chunks. This way, they mix in evenly and give you some tasty bites of brownie in every scoop!
5. Freeze:
Once churned, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container. For best results, freeze it for at least 2-3 hours to firm up completely. Just imagine the creamy texture you’ll get!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
When it’s time to enjoy your treat, scoop out the ice cream and, if you like, sprinkle some extra brownie crumbs on top for an extra chocolatey touch. Serve it up and dig in!
Enjoy a creamy, chocolatey treat with chunks of chewy brownie in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Ice Cream Instead of Making It from Scratch?
While this recipe is specifically for homemade ice cream, you could layer brownie batter and chunks into store-bought vanilla ice cream for a quicker version! Just soften the ice cream slightly and stir in the brownie ingredients before refreezing.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this ice cream up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the freezer. For the best texture, make sure to allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. However, it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, try full-fat coconut milk, which can provide a rich and creamy alternative!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To prevent ice crystals from forming, press a sheet of parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing the container. This will help maintain its texture and flavor for up to two weeks!
