This Easy Brownie Fudge Swirl Ice Cream combines rich chocolate brownie pieces with a creamy fudge swirl. It’s the perfect treat for warm days, and no ice cream maker is needed!
You won’t be able to resist this delightful dessert! When I make it, I always keep some hidden for myself. Just between us, it’s great for movie nights or a sweet pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This gives your ice cream a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream can work, but the texture might be less creamy.
Whole Milk: I love using whole milk for creaminess. You can substitute with 2% milk, but it will alter the texture a bit. Avoid skim; it won’t be as rich.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness. You can swap it with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or even a sugar substitute if you’re cutting back on sugar.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is ideal. If you only have Dutch-process cocoa, it will give you a slightly different taste, but it’s still a great choice!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla makes a difference in flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use imitation vanilla, but I definitely prefer the real deal.
Brownie Pieces: Feel free to use store-bought for convenience. If you’re baking your own, choose a fudgy recipe for a better texture. Alternate mix-ins could be chocolate chip cookies or chocolate chunks.
Fudge Sauce: Homemade is always a treat, but store-bought saves time. You could also use caramel or peanut butter sauce for different flavors.
How Do You Get the Perfect Swirl in Your Ice Cream?
Creating a beautiful swirl can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! Once you layer your ice cream and sauce, be gentle. Use a butter knife or a spatula to make swirls, but don’t mix too much—just a few strokes will do!
- Make sure to leave some space between the ice cream and the fudge when layering.
- Work from the top down to create the marbled look without losing the definition of the layers.
- Use a light touch to keep the rich flavors distinct while still mingling beautifully.
Easy Brownie Fudge Swirl Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup brownie pieces (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 4 hours to fully freeze. You’ll spend a few moments mixing ingredients and churning, then just let it set and harden!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by gathering a medium bowl. Whisk together the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until they are well mixed. This ensures there are no lumps in your base. Next, add the whole milk and continue whisking until the sugar and cocoa are completely dissolved. It should be smooth and chocolaty!
2. Add Cream and Vanilla:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is nicely combined and the mixture is creamy. This is where the magic begins!
3. Churn the Mixture:
Pour your delicious chocolate mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the ice cream until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your machine.
4. Layer and Swirl:
Once your ice cream is ready, take a freezer-safe container and transfer half of it into the bottom. Then, drizzle half of the fudge sauce over that layer and sprinkle half of the brownie pieces on top. Add the remaining ice cream to the container, and repeat the process with the other half of the fudge sauce and brownie pieces. Use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the layers together without mixing them completely.
5. Freeze Until Firm:
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to protect it from freezer odors. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is nice and firm.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to treat yourself, scoop the ice cream into bowls. Enjoy the wonderful combination of creamy chocolate ice cream, rich fudge swirls, and chewy brownie bites! This treat is perfect for hot days, movie nights, or whenever you need a little sweet pick-me-up!
FAQ – Easy Brownie Fudge Swirl Ice Cream
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but it will slightly change the creaminess of the ice cream. Whole milk provides a richer texture, so if possible, stick to it for the best results!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
This ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. Just keep it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can pour the ice cream mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until it is fully frozen and creamy.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or other flavors of sauce to customize your ice cream. Just be sure not to add too many; you want the base to maintain a smooth texture!
