Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings

Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, sweet, and utterly delightful dessert? Our Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings is the perfect blend of rich caramel flavor and luxurious chocolate, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a sweet escape, this homemade ice cream is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

1. Irresistible Flavor Combination: The star of this recipe is the smooth and creamy dulce de leche, a caramelized milk treat that adds a rich, sweet flavor to the ice cream. Paired with delicate chocolate shavings, it creates a sophisticated taste sensation that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic ingredients that are easy to find, including whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and, of course, dulce de leche. The addition of chocolate shavings adds a touch of elegance without being overly complicated.
3. No Churn Option: While an ice cream maker provides the best texture, this recipe includes a no-churn method for those who don’t have one. You can still achieve a creamy, smooth consistency without specialized equipment.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: From family dinners to festive celebrations, this ice cream is a versatile dessert that complements a variety of events. It’s also a wonderful gift idea for loved ones who appreciate homemade treats.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the base for a rich and creamy texture.
• 1 cup whole milk: Balances the richness of the cream.
• 1 cup dulce de leche: The key ingredient for that delectable caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup chocolate shavings: Adds a touch of elegance and a burst of chocolatey goodness.

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add Dulce de Leche: Gently fold in the dulce de leche and vanilla extract, making sure everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
3. Churn or Freeze:

• With Ice Cream Maker: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in the chocolate shavings and transfer to a lidded container. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
• Without Ice Cream Maker: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours to break up ice crystals. After the mixture is fully frozen, fold in the chocolate shavings.

1. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, and top with additional chocolate shavings if desired. Enjoy your creamy, caramel-infused treat!

Tips for the Perfect Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

• Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality dulce de leche and chocolate will enhance the flavor and texture of your ice cream.
• Storage: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Conclusion

With its luscious caramel flavor and delightful chocolate shavings, our Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings is a dessert that stands out. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your guests, this recipe combines simplicity with sophistication. Try it today and enjoy a taste of creamy perfection!

Serving and Storage Tips for Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings

Serving Tips

1. Scoop with Ease: For the smoothest scoops, use a warmed ice cream scoop. Simply run the scoop under warm water and dry it off before digging into your ice cream. This helps the ice cream release more easily from the scoop.
2. Presentation Matters: Serve your ice cream in chilled bowls or cones to help keep it cold and prevent it from melting too quickly. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with additional chocolate shavings, a drizzle of dulce de leche, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
3. Pair with Toppings: Enhance your dessert by adding complementary toppings such as crushed nuts, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of sea salt can also highlight the caramel flavors and provide a delightful contrast.
4. Pre-Scoop for Parties: If you’re serving a crowd, consider scooping the ice cream into individual portions ahead of time. Place the scoops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the pre-scooped portions to a container for easy serving.

Storage Tips

1. Proper Container: Store your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture. A container with a tight-fitting lid is ideal.
2. Freeze Efficiently: Keep the ice cream in the coldest part of your freezer to ensure it stays firm. Avoid placing it near the freezer door, as frequent opening and closing can affect the temperature.
3. Avoid Crystallization: To minimize ice crystal formation, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This helps prevent air from coming into contact with the ice cream.
4. Softening Before Serving: If the ice cream has become too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.
5. Shelf Life: Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 2 weeks of freezing for optimal flavor and texture. After this period, it may become grainy or develop ice crystals.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings remains deliciously creamy and satisfying every time you indulge. Enjoy your sweet treat to the fullest!

1. Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly for this recipe. It provides a consistent and rich flavor, and you can usually find it in the international foods section of most grocery stores. If you prefer, you can also make homemade dulce de leche, but ensure it’s well-cooled before mixing it into your ice cream.

2. What can I substitute for the heavy cream if I’m looking for a lighter option?

If you want a lighter version of this ice cream, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with whole milk or use half-and-half. However, keep in mind that using these substitutions may slightly alter the creaminess and texture of the ice cream. For the best results, try to use at least some heavy cream to maintain a rich and smooth consistency.

3. Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream besides chocolate shavings?

Absolutely! You can customize your ice cream by adding various mix-ins such as chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or swirls of caramel sauce. If you’re using an ice cream maker, add the mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning. If you’re using the no-churn method, fold in the mix-ins just before freezing.

4. How long can I store this ice cream in the freezer?

You can store the Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Shavings in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for the best quality and flavor. Beyond this period, the ice cream may start to develop ice crystals and lose its creamy texture. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.