Homemade Chunky Ice Cream is a decadent blend of ripe bananas, velvety cream, and bold mix-ins like walnuts and chocolate chunks. It’s a no-holds-barred dessert that balances creamy smoothness with satisfying crunch. Whether you’re recreating a favorite store-bought flavor or crafting your own signature scoop, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and texture. Best of all, it’s made with real ingredients and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed or pureed
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup dark chocolate chunks or chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- ½ cup brownie bits (optional, for extra indulgence)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Banana Base
- Peel and mash the ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth. For a silkier texture, blend them in a food processor.
- Set aside.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
3. Chill the Mixture
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This step helps the ice cream churn more efficiently and improves texture.
4. Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
- When the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, add the chocolate chunks, walnuts, and brownie bits (if using).
- Continue churning for another 2–3 minutes until the mix-ins are evenly distributed.
5. Freeze Until Firm
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container (like a loaf pan).
- Smooth the top and press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, until firm and scoopable.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
- Serve in bowls, cones, or as part of a sundae with extra toppings like hot fudge, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
Serving Suggestions:
- Banana Split: Serve with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and maraschino cherries.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Scoop between two chocolate chip cookies.
- Milkshake: Blend with a splash of milk for a thick, creamy shake.
Tips & Variations:
- No ice cream maker? Pour the base into a loaf pan, stir in the mix-ins, and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours to mimic churning.
- Make it vegan: Use coconut cream, almond milk, and dairy-free chocolate.
- Add swirl: Fold in peanut butter or Nutella for a ribbon of extra flavor.
- Toast the nuts: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to enhance their flavor.
This Homemade Chunky Ice Cream is a celebration of bold textures and rich flavors—perfect for banana lovers and ice cream aficionados alike. Want a version with peanut butter cups or a tropical twist with coconut and pineapple? I’d love to help you create it!