There’s nothing quite like the comfort of hot chocolate, especially when it’s transformed into a chilled, creamy treat you can enjoy all year long. This Ninja Creami frozen hot chocolate ice cream recipe brings together the rich, chocolatey goodness of hot cocoa with the smooth texture of homemade ice cream.
If you love indulgent desserts but want something easy and quick to whip up, this recipe is your new go-to. You’ll find that the Ninja Creami makes creating this frozen delight simple and fun, delivering a luscious and refreshing treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness
- Customizable with your favorite toppings
- Great for all seasons, especially warm summer days
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious frozen hot chocolate ice cream with the Ninja Creami.
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional for mix-in)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips or shavings (optional for topping)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (includes freezing time)
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
How to Make The Best Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream – Rich, Creamy & Easy
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt over medium heat until the sugar and cocoa are fully dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling, about 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth and fully melted.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to cool completely.
- Freeze the pint container in your freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Place the frozen pint in the Ninja Creami machine and process on the ice cream setting for a smooth, creamy texture.
- If desired, add mini marshmallows as a mix-in by creating a small hole in the ice cream and using the mix-in function to fold them evenly through the ice cream.
- Serve immediately topped with chocolate chips or shavings for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for the richest, creamiest texture.
- Make sure the mixture is completely chilled before freezing to avoid icy crystals.
- Finely chop the chocolate to help it melt smoothly into the mixture.
- Customize with mix-ins like crushed peppermint or brownie bits for variety.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover frozen hot chocolate ice cream in the freezer in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. It’s best consumed within one week for optimal flavor and texture.
Since this is a frozen dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow the ice cream to soften at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best scoopable texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, but the texture may be less creamy. Adding full-fat coconut milk can help improve creaminess.
Is it necessary to chill the mixture before freezing?
Chilling the mixture before freezing helps prevent ice crystals and ensures a smooth texture when processed in the Ninja Creami.
Can I make this recipe without the Ninja Creami machine?
While you can freeze the mixture without the Ninja Creami, the texture won’t be as smooth or creamy. The machine helps churn and break up ice crystals for the perfect consistency.
How long does the ice cream keep in the freezer?
It’s best to consume the ice cream within one week. Beyond that, it may develop ice crystals and lose its creamy texture.
