Is there anything more delightful than the sweet combination of cherries, chocolate, and creamy ice cream? Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia is a beloved flavor that always brings joy with every scoop. Today, we’re going to show you how to recreate this iconic treat right in your own kitchen. Our homemade version of Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia ice cream is just as rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor as the original. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and start making memories with every spoonful!
**Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups pitted cherries, halved
– 1 cup dark chocolate chunks
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cherries:**
– Start by pitting the cherries and cutting them in half. Set them aside in a bowl.
2. **Chocolate Chunks:**
– Chop the dark chocolate into small, bite-sized chunks. You can adjust the size based on your preference. Set them aside for later.
3. **Make the Ice Cream Base:**
– In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. **Infuse the Flavor:**
– Once the mixture is heated through, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will give the ice cream a warm, comforting flavor.
5. **Chill the Mixture:**
– Transfer the ice cream base to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture.
6. **Churn the Ice Cream:**
– After the mixture has chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The goal is to achieve a soft-serve consistency.
7. **Add the Goodness:**
– Once the ice cream is almost ready, add in the halved cherries and dark chocolate chunks. Let the ice cream maker mix them in evenly.
8. **Freeze to Perfection:**
– Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming. Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Scoop generous servings of your homemade Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia into bowls or cones. Garnish with extra cherries and chocolate chunks for a beautiful presentation. Indulge in every creamy, chocolatey, and fruity bite!
Homemade ice cream always tastes sweeter when shared with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon in the backyard or hosting a cozy movie night indoors, this Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia recipe will surely be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your favorite people and treat yourselves to a scoop (or two!) of this delightful frozen dessert. Cheers to homemade happiness!
