Name: Creamy Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream That's Pure Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1450 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Whole Milk (Substitutions include almond milk for dairy-free options.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (For a lighter version, use half and half.); 1 cup Hot Chocolate Mix (Can be regular or sugar-free.); 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Use unsweetened for more intense taste.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Can be reduced based on preference.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Try using pure vanilla for an aromatic twist.); 1/2 cup Mini Marshmallows (Bring that classic hot cocoa vibe.); 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Add extra chocolatey goodness.); 1/4 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Great for adding a festive flair.)

As I scooped into my latest creation, a wave of nostalgia hit me—the smell of warm cocoa transporting me back to childhood winters. Now, with just a few ingredients and my trusty Ninja Creami, I’ve reinvented that cozy favorite into a delightful Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but the customizable flavors mean you can tailor it to your heart’s content. Whether it’s a family movie night or a spontaneous treat, this ice cream is sure to impress and satisfy those sweet cravings without the guilt—yes, sugar-free options are available! So, are you ready to bring the warmth of hot chocolate into a deliciously frozen dessert?

Why is this ice cream so special?

Creamy Texture: The Ninja Creami technology ensures your ice cream is smooth and velvety, reminiscent of rich hot cocoa. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this dessert without stress. Customizable Goodness: Personalize your treat with mix-ins like marshmallows or chocolate chips, making it perfect for any occasion. Guilt-Free Indulgence: Using sugar-free options means you can enjoy this dessert without compromise. Plus, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of elegance—just like in our Healthy Chocolate Protein recipe!

Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream.

For the Ice Cream Base

Whole Milk – Provides the base liquid for a creamy texture; substitutions include almond milk for dairy-free options.
Heavy Cream – Contributes richness and creaminess to the ice cream; for a lighter version, use half and half.
Hot Chocolate Mix – Adds sweetness and chocolate flavor; can be regular or sugar-free to suit dietary preferences.
Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor; use unsweetened for a more intense taste.
Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; can be reduced based on preference.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; try using pure vanilla for an aromatic twist.

Optional Mix-ins

Mini Marshmallows – Bring that classic hot cocoa vibe; perfect for a fun texture.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Add extra chocolatey goodness for true chocolate lovers.
Crushed Candy Canes – Great for adding a festive flair during the holiday season; a delightful twist on the traditional.

This Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream will surely be a hit, allowing you to indulge without the guilt while enjoying its rich and creamy flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, hot chocolate mix, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully blended—this should take about 2-3 minutes. You want a smooth mixture with no lumps; the color should be a rich chocolate brown, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
Pour the chocolate mixture into your Ninja Creami container, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal the container tightly and place it in the freezer for at least 24 hours; this helps the Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream achieve the perfect solid texture, essential for creamy scoopability.

Step 3: Process the Frozen Base
After your base is entirely frozen, it’s time to transform it! Remove the container from the freezer and insert it into the Ninja Creami. Set it to the “Gelato” setting and process for 1-2 minutes until you achieve a silky, creamy consistency. The mixture should fluff up beautifully, resembling a luscious hot chocolate.

Step 4: Add Optional Mix-ins
If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the moment to fold in your desired mix-ins. Gently add mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes to the processed ice cream. Use the “Re-mix” function on your Ninja Creami for about 30 seconds to evenly distribute the mix-ins without over-processing the ice cream.

Step 5: Serve or Store
Scoop the Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream into bowls and serve it right away for a soft-serve consistency, topped with whipped cream if desired. Alternatively, you can return it to the freezer for an additional 1-2 hours for a firmer texture—perfect for enjoying later!

Storage Tips for Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream

Fridge: Store leftover ice cream in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours if serving immediately. It may lose its firmness but will still be tasty!

Freezer: Keep your Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for optimal freshness and flavor retention.

Serving: For a softer texture, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. If too firm, let it soften briefly for easy serving.

Reheating: If using optional mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, you can gently warm the ice cream in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly melt those additions for a delightful experience.

Expert Tips for Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream

Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the ice cream base is completely frozen for at least 24 hours, which is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
Milk Matters: Avoid using low-fat or skim milk. Stick to whole milk or half-and-half for the best results; they create a richer, creamier ice cream.
Mix Well: Stir the mixture before pouring it into the Ninja Creami container. This prevents the hot chocolate mix from settling at the bottom, ensuring a uniform flavor throughout.
Customization: Feel free to experiment with various mix-ins or flavored hot chocolate mixes for your Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind!
Texture Check: If your ice cream is too soft after processing, freeze it for an additional hour to reach the perfect scoopable consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a creamy, rich dessert without any last-minute fuss! You can prepare the ice cream base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all your ingredients and pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami container, then freeze it overnight. To maintain the quality, be sure to seal the container well to prevent any ice crystals from forming. When you’re ready to serve, process the frozen base in the Ninja Creami until smooth, fold in any desired mix-ins, and you’ll have a deliciously delightful treat ready in no time!

What to Serve with Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream?

Indulging in this creamy treat can be a complete experience when you enhance it with the right combinations.

Warm Brownies: The rich fudginess pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on top adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness, enhancing the chocolatey goodness.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce takes the dessert to the next level, intensifying the cocoa flavor.
Fresh Berries: Bright strawberries or tart raspberries provide a fresh, fruity balance, cutting through the rich creaminess for a harmonious bite.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: The classic cookie adds a chewy, satisfying texture, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: The minty freshness through your ice cream will tingle your senses, offering a refreshing contrast.
Espresso or Coffee: A steaming cup of espresso creates a gourmet pairing, as the warmth of coffee complements the ice cream’s coolness beautifully.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture and a nutty flavor, creating a delightful crunch alongside the smooth ice cream.
Caramel Sauce: A sweet, gooey drizzle enhances the chocolate richness and introduces a touch of decadence to your frozen treat.
Milkshake: For the ultimate indulgence, blend the ice cream with milk to create a luxurious frozen hot chocolate shake!

Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it truly your own!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a creamy, dairy-free delight. You’ll enjoy rich flavors without the lactose!
Half-and-Half Twist: For a lighter treat, swap heavy cream for half-and-half. It’ll still be indulgent yet slightly more guilt-free.
Flavored Mixes: Try using flavored hot chocolate mixes, like caramel or mint, instead of the original mix. It’s an easy way to switch up the flavor profile!
Sugar-Free Options: Use a sugar-free hot chocolate mix and adjust sweeteners to keep it guilt-free. Indulge in this chocolatey goodness without the sugar crash!
Nutty Goodness: Add almond or hazelnut extracts for a nutty flavor boost that complements the chocolate beautifully. A touch of warmth, it’s like receiving a hug in a bowl!
Festive Touch: Incorporate crushed candy canes as a mix-in, especially during the holiday season. That peppermint hint will make your taste buds dance!
Fruit Infusion: Fold in fresh berries or slices of banana just before serving. The fruity freshness creates a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate.
Crunchy Elements: Try adding toffee bits or crushed graham crackers for a sweet crunch that enhances the overall texture! Pair it with a scoop of whipped cream as a final touch—the perfect finish to an extraordinarily customizable dessert.

Feel free to explore other delightful desserts like our Pumpkin Spice Gooey or Vegan Maple Cream recipes for more inspiration on your culinary journey! Enjoy every bite of your Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream!

Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this ice cream recipe?
Absolutely! When making Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream, the most important ingredient to focus on is the cocoa powder and hot chocolate mix. Ensure your hot chocolate mix is fresh, as older mixes may have diminished flavor. For milk and cream, opt for fresh, non-expired products, ideally with a sell-by date at least a week away.

What is the best way to store Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream?
To keep your ice cream fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It will remain delicious for about two weeks. For added protection against freezer burn, cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container.

Can I freeze this ice cream for later?
Absolutely! After making the Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream, freeze it in an airtight container. It can stay in the freezer for up to two weeks. If you want to store it longer, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy access, ensuring to add parchment paper on top before sealing to avoid ice crystals forming.

What should I do if my ice cream feels too soft after processing?
If your ice cream is too soft, don’t worry! Simply return it to the freezer for about an hour to allow it to firm up. If you’re consistently having texture issues, make sure you freeze your mixture for the full 24 hours as recommended. Also, avoid over-processing in the Ninja Creami, which can affect the texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Very! The Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream can be customized to fit various dietary needs. Use almond milk or oat milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free option. If you’re looking for lower sugar content, opt for a sugar-free hot chocolate mix and adjust the sugar in the recipe to fit your dietary needs. Always check the labels of your mix-ins for any potential allergens.

Can pets enjoy this ice cream too?
While it’s tempting to share treats with our furry friends, it’s important to remember that chocolate and sugar are toxic to pets, particularly dogs. It’s best to save the Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream for human enjoyment only! If you want to treat your pet, consider making a separate pet-friendly frozen treat recipe tailored just for them.