Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dessert that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise? Meet Chunky Monkey Ice Cream—a delightful fusion of ripe bananas, rich cream, and crunchy walnuts that will have you craving more with every spoonful! This homemade treat is not only a delicious way to beat the heat but also a fun and easy recipe to whip up in your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a frozen delight that rivals your favorite ice cream shop. So, grab your bananas and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Peel the ripe bananas and slice them into thin pieces. Place the banana slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until completely solid.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the milk mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.
- Remove the frozen banana slices from the freezer. Transfer them to a high-powered blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy, creating a banana base.
- Pour the chilled milk mixture into the blended banana base and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- If using an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add the chopped walnuts to distribute evenly throughout the ice cream.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your ice cream will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.
- Chill the Mixture: Don’t skip the chilling step for the milk mixture! A well-chilled base helps achieve a smoother texture when churning.
- Use a High-Powered Blender: For the best results, use a high-powered blender or food processor to ensure the banana base is creamy and free of lumps.
- Churn Carefully: Follow your ice cream maker’s instructions closely for optimal churning time; over-churning can lead to a grainy texture.
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add chocolate chips, peanut butter, or even a swirl of caramel for a unique twist.
- Storage Tips: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn, and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- Serve with Style: For an extra special touch, top your Chunky Monkey Ice Cream with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of extra walnuts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
