Recreate the magic of Ben & Jerry’s iconic ice cream flavors right in your kitchen with just 10 minutes of prep! This recipe brings you the creamy, dreamy textures and bold, indulgent flavors you love, from rich chocolate fudge brownie to tangy cherry garcia. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or impressing guests, it’s a no-churn wonder that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Each spoonful delivers a luxurious, velvety smoothness paired with chunks of cookies, swirls of caramel, or bursts of fresh fruit. Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla or adventurous cookie dough, this recipe guarantees a homemade treat that’s as fun to make as it is to devour. Dive in and taste the joy!
Ingredients for Homemade Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
- 1 large banana (ripe for easier mashing)
- 1 ½ cups (12oz/360g) ice cream base (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup (4oz/115g) fudge chunks (or substitute with chocolate chips)
- ¼ cup (2oz/60g) walnuts, toasted (optional: substitute with pecans or almonds)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the banana: In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the banana until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Add the ice cream base, fudge chunks, and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly mixed.
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture to a large sealable container. Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Serve and store: Scoop and enjoy! Keep leftovers in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Creative Toppings to Elevate Your Ice Cream
Take your homemade Ben & Jerry’s-inspired ice cream to the next level with fun toppings! Try drizzling caramel sauce or hot fudge for a decadent touch. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty combo, or toss on some crushed pretzels for crunch. For a fruity twist, fresh strawberries or raspberries work beautifully.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
Serve your ice cream in a waffle cone for a classic treat, or layer it with brownie chunks and whipped cream for an indulgent sundae. Pair it with a warm chocolate chip cookie for an irresistible ice cream sandwich. For a cozy vibe, enjoy it alongside a cup of hot coffee or espresso.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Store your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. For best results, consume within 2 weeks to enjoy its full flavor and freshness.
Easy Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by swapping the banana for 1 cup of peanut butter or 1/2 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. Replace the walnuts with chopped almonds or pecans for a different nutty flavor. For a vegan option, use a dairy-free ice cream base and ensure all mix-ins are plant-based.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Days
Prep your ingredients ahead of time by toasting the walnuts and chopping the fudge chunks in advance. Use a food processor to quickly mash the banana and mix the ingredients for a smoother process. If you’re short on time, freeze the ice cream in individual portions for quicker serving.
Homemade Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream: Top 5 Flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 large banana
- 1 ½ cups ice cream base 12oz/360g
- ½ cup fudge chunk 4oz/115g
- ¼ cup walnuts toasted, 2oz/60g
Instructions
- In a large bowl mash up your banana with a fork
- Add in the rest of your ice cream ingredients and gently fold them all together
- Place in a large sealable container and freeze at least 6 hours or overnight before eating. Keep for up to 2 weeks.
