Mocha Ice Cream

Every ice cream recipe has a special ingredient that sets it apart. For vanilla ice cream, it’s pure vanilla beans; for mint chip, it’s the refreshing mint. In this mocha ice cream, the magic comes from a rich blend of coffee and cocoa.

Created by Dick McCarty of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, this recipe has been a beloved favorite for more than 40 years. The coffee enhances the chocolate, resulting in a decadent, creamy dessert that every coffee lover will want to try.

Ingredients for Mocha Ice Cream

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• Sugar: Sugar is not only responsible for adding sweetness, it also helps achieve the smooth texture that’s quintessential for ice cream.
• Baking cocoa: The addition of baking cocoa in this mocha ice cream imparts a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results—here are our recommendations for the best baking cocoa.
• All-purpose flour: The flour in this recipe acts as a thickening agent for the custard base, ensuring the mix has the right consistency before it goes into the ice cream maker to set.
• Coffee granules: The use of instant coffee helps intensify the chocolate flavor in this mocha ice cream. You can adjust the amount based on your preference and even use a shot of espresso for a stronger coffee taste.
• Milk: We recommend using whole milk for the richest flavor and creamy texture in this ice cream.
• Eggs: Four eggs are needed for this ice cream’s custard base. Eggs offer an incredible creaminess to homemade ice cream that’s hard to achieve otherwise.
• Half-and-half: Adding much-needed fat to the ice cream, half-and-half is also used in this recipe to increase the richness of the ice cream.
• Heavy whipping cream: The addition of heavy whipping cream in this mocha ice cream enriches the texture and ensures that the ice cream batter holds its shape while churning.
• Vanilla extract: A couple tablespoons of vanilla extract can go a long way in homemade ice cream. Use it to add depth and balance the coffee and chocolate flavors of this mocha ice cream.

Directions

Step 1: Make the custard

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In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, baking cocoa, flour, instant coffee granules, salt and milk. Cook and stir over medium heat until the mixture is thickened and bubbly.

Step 2: Temper the eggs

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Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten eggs. Slowly add the tempered eggs into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Cook and stir over low heat until the mixture reaches at least 160°F and coats the back of a metal spoon.

Step 3: Cool the mixture

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Remove the mixture from the heat and refrigerate it until chilled. Stir in the half-and-half, heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Freeze the ice cream

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Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and fill until 2/3 full. Freeze according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Editor’s Tip: New to the world of homemade ice cream? Check out our guide on how to use the most popular ice cream makers.

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Mocha Ice Cream Variations

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning for an added chocolate kick.
• Swirl in caramel: Add a swirl of caramel sauce during the last few minutes of churning.
• Crumble in chocolate cookies: Oreos or chocolate cookies really intensify this mocha ice cream’s chocolatey flavor.
• Mix in nuts: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

How to Store Mocha Ice Cream

This mocha ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To prevent the formation of ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.

Mocha Ice Cream Tips

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Can you use decaf coffee for this mocha ice cream recipe?

Yes, you can substitute decaf instant coffee granules if you prefer a caffeine-free version. The flavor of this mocha ice cream will still remain deliciously rich and coffee-forward.

How can you enhance mocha ice cream?

For a more intense coffee flavor, use a shot or two of espresso instead of instant coffee to elevate your dessert to gourmet status. Adding a splash of coffee liqueur can also deepen the ice cream’s flavor and will prevent it from going rock hard in the freezer.

What can you serve with mocha ice cream?

Mocha ice cream pairs wonderfully with a slice of chocolate cake or brownie. It also makes a fantastic affogato when topped with a shot of hot espresso.

Can you make mocha ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Making this mocha ice cream without an ice cream maker is quite simple. Pour the mixture into a shallow glass dish and place it in the freezer. Beat the mixture using a hand blender every 30 minutes until it reaches your desired smooth and creamy consistency—this usually takes three to four hours.