Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade goodness – Enjoy fresh, preservative-free ice cream with high-quality ingredients.
- Rich and creamy texture – The combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a silky-smooth base.
- Perfect balance of flavors – The sweetness of caramel complements the deep, slightly bitter dark chocolate.
- Easy to make – With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet dessert at home.
- Customizable – Adjust the mix-ins to your preference for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 20-30 minutes) until thick and creamy.
Add the Caramel & Chocolate
- Swirl in the caramel sauce, creating rich ribbons of caramel throughout.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chunks to add texture and decadence to each scoop.
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Churn Time: 20-30 minutes
- Freeze Time: At least 4 hours
Variations
- Salted Caramel Twist – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a salted caramel flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Add toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Milk Chocolate Option – Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate chunks for a sweeter taste.
- Coffee Infusion – Stir in 1 tablespoon of espresso powder for a caramel macchiato-inspired version.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut cream and almond milk as substitutes for heavy cream and whole milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: If the ice cream is too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
How long does homemade ice cream last?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 2 weeks for the freshest taste, but it can last up to a month if stored properly.
Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Freeze the base mixture in a shallow dish and stir every 30 minutes for about 3 hours until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a high-quality, thick caramel sauce for the best results.
What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate chunks or high-quality chocolate bars chopped into pieces work best for a rich flavor.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is key for a creamy texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
How do I prevent ice crystals in my ice cream?
Store the ice cream in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the lid.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, but it may slightly change the texture.
How do I get a stronger caramel flavor?
Increase the caramel amount to ¾ cup and mix some directly into the base before churning.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use coconut cream, almond milk, dairy-free caramel, and vegan chocolate for a plant-based version.
What’s the best way to serve this ice cream?
Serve in a bowl with extra caramel drizzle, in a waffle cone, or as an ice cream sandwich between cookies.
Conclusion
Caramel Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream is the ultimate indulgence, combining smooth vanilla, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate chunks in every spoonful. Whether you make it for a special occasion or a simple treat, this homemade delight is guaranteed to impress. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the creamy perfection of this irresistible dessert!
PrintCaramel Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Caramel Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream! This homemade ice cream blends velvety vanilla, luscious caramel swirls, and decadent dark chocolate chunks for a truly indulgent treat. Perfect for cooling down on a warm day or satisfying your sweet tooth, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees a smooth texture with irresistible mix-ins in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 4hours
- Yield: 6servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churned
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
2️⃣ Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-30 minutes) until thick and creamy.
3️⃣ Add the Caramel & Chocolate
- Swirl in the caramel sauce, creating rich ribbons of caramel.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chunks for added texture.
- Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Notes
Salted Caramel Twist – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
✔ Nutty Crunch – Add toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts.
✔ Milk Chocolate Option – Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate.
✔ Coffee Infusion – Add 1 tbsp espresso powder for a caramel macchiato twist.
✔ Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of dairy.
