Chocolate Orange Ice Cream Recipe That Will Delight You

Chocolate and orange are a classic flavor pairing that never fails to delight the taste buds, and when combined in a creamy, dreamy ice cream, the result is pure magic. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party, enjoy a refreshing dessert on a warm day, or simply indulge your sweet tooth, this Chocolate Orange Ice Cream Recipe is a must-try.

The rich cocoa perfectly complements the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Plus, making your own ice cream at home means you can control the quality of ingredients and customize the intensity of chocolate and orange to suit your preferences.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through all the essentials to craft this luscious treat, from the ingredients and equipment you’ll need to expert tips for the best texture and flavor. Get ready to make an ice cream that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the senses!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate orange ice cream recipe stands out because it combines the best of both worlds: the decadence of chocolate and the refreshing brightness of orange. Unlike store-bought versions that can be artificial or overly sweet, this recipe uses real cocoa powder and fresh orange zest and juice, giving it a natural and vibrant flavor profile.

It’s also surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring no complicated techniques or fancy ingredients. If you have an ice cream maker, you’re halfway there.

If not, don’t worry—I’ll include tips on how to make it without one.

Additionally, this recipe is customizable. Want it more chocolatey?

Add extra cocoa. Prefer a tangier bite?

Increase the orange zest. You can even make it vegan or dairy-free with simple swaps.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for vegan option)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fine mesh sieve
• Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large airtight container for freezing

Instructions

1. Prepare the ice cream base: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, orange zest, and sugar. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and let the orange zest infuse for about 15 minutes.
2. Mix the cocoa powder: In a separate bowl, whisk the cocoa powder with a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture to form a smooth paste. This prevents lumps and ensures an even chocolate flavor. Stir this paste back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk and cream mixture.
3. Whisk the egg yolks: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become lighter in color. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm chocolate-orange mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them and prevent curdling.
4. Cook the custard: Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spatula (about 170°F or 77°C). Do not let it boil.
5. Strain and chill: Pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the zest and any cooked egg bits. Stir in the fresh orange juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
6. Churn the ice cream: Once chilled, pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
7. Freeze until firm: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 3 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
8. Serve and enjoy! Scoop into bowls or cones and garnish with extra orange zest or chocolate shavings if desired.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an extra burst of orange flavor, add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau to the custard before chilling.

Variation: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the milk and cream with full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener.

Texture tip: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the custard into a shallow container and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until smooth and creamy (about 3-4 hours).

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate orange ice cream is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with some creative serving ideas. Try topping it with dark chocolate shavings, candied orange peel, or a drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.

Pair it with a warm brownie or a slice of rich chocolate cake for a glorious chocolate-orange dessert combo. Alternatively, serve alongside fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad to balance the richness with some fresh acidity.

For a fun adult treat, serve the ice cream in a glass with a splash of coffee liqueur or espresso for a boozy twist that’s perfect after dinner.

Conclusion

Making your own chocolate orange ice cream at home is a rewarding experience that brings together the vibrant zestiness of orange with the deep, indulgent flavor of chocolate in a creamy frozen delight.

This recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks looking to impress with a unique and delicious dessert.

By using fresh ingredients and taking a bit of time to prepare the custard base, you’ll achieve an ice cream that’s smooth, flavorful, and bursting with the natural goodness of orange and cocoa. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this ice cream will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

For more exciting and delicious recipes, be sure to check out other favorites like Vegan Icecream Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious Treats, Cocoa Recipes Vegan Lovers Will Absolutely Adore, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Happy cooking and happy indulging!

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