Easy 3-Ingredient Ice Cream (Vanilla & Chocolate, No Machine)
This easy and healthy 3-ingredient ice cream recipe uses only natural ingredients—heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and cocoa powder—to create a creamy and delicious frozen treat. Perfect for those looking for a simple homemade dessert without any artificial additives or complicated steps. The sweetness level is easy to adjust based on your preference, making it ideal for every taste. You can enjoy it plain or with rich chocolate flavor by dividing the mixture. Serve this delightful ice cream topped with fresh or frozen berries and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a café-style dessert experience at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 main ingredients — no eggs or machine required.
- One simple mixture becomes two different flavors: vanilla and chocolate.
- Freezer-friendly and perfect for prepping ahead.
- You can decorate it beautifully with berries, mint, and cocoa powder.
- High in creaminess and flavor — feels like a real dessert café treat.
Ingredients for a 3-Ingredient Ice Cream
- Cold heavy cream (33% or similar whipping cream)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- Fresh or frozen berries for topping
- Fresh mint leaves
- Optional: powdered sugar and cocoa powder for dusting
How to Make 3-Ingredient Ice Cream
- Prepare the Base:
In a large bowl, whip cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Do not overwhip the cream — stop at soft peaks for the best texture. Gently fold in sweetened condensed milk until smooth and combined.
- Split and Flavor:
Divide the mixture into two equal parts. Leave one plain for vanilla flavor. In the other bowl, sift in unsweetened cocoa powder and fold it in to make chocolate ice cream.
- Assemble in One Container:
Take one freezer-safe container and pour the vanilla mixture on one side and the chocolate mixture on the other. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Freeze:
Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Serve and Decorate:
Scoop the ice cream into serving bowls or cones. Top with fresh or frozen berries and mint leaves. For a dessert-like presentation, dust with powdered sugar and a bit of cocoa powder just before
Tips for Best Results
- Use cold cream straight from the fridge to whip easily.
- Don’t overmix once you add condensed milk — fold gently.
- For smoother scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use plant-based cream and condensed milk?
Yes, it will work! Just make sure the cream can be whipped.
Do I need to use both flavors?
No, you can go with just vanilla or just chocolate if you prefer. But doing both gives a fun two-in-one dessert!
What other toppings work well?
Try chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or cookie crumbs for extra texture.
Easy 3-Ingredient Vanilla and Chocolate Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 400 ml heavy cream 33% fat
- 8 tbsp sweetened condensed milk adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Whip cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Divide the mixture in two. Leave one plain and fold cocoa powder into the other.
- Pour both into one container side by side and smooth the top.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
