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Chunky Monkey Ice Cream

Chunky Monkey Ice Cream

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A homemade take on the classic Chunky Monkey Ice Cream, this recipe combines caramelized bananas, toasted walnuts, and rich chocolate chunks for a creamy, indulgent treat. Perfect for dessert lovers, this recipe brings the iconic Ben & Jerry’s flavor into your kitchen with a few extra homemade touches.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

  • 4 small ripe bananas (500g): Choose overripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
  • ⅔ cup (145g) brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth. Substitute with white sugar if needed.
  • 1 cup (250ml) thickened cream: Heavy cream works as an alternative.
  • 1 cup (250ml) milk: Whole milk is best, but plant-based options like almond milk can work.
  • 10g glucose syrup: Helps prevent ice crystals; corn syrup is a good substitute.
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla for better flavor.
  • 1 pinch salt: Balances the sweetness.

For the Mix-ins:

  • ½ cup (100g) semi-sweet chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for rich flavor. Vegan chocolate works too.
  • 2½ teaspoons (10g) refined coconut oil: Ensures smooth chocolate chunks; vegetable oil can be used instead.
  • 1 cup (100g) walnut pieces: Toasted walnuts add extra crunch and nuttiness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Chunks and Walnuts

Melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl using a microwave or double boiler. Stir in coconut oil until smooth, then pour into a lined container to set in the fridge. Once firm, chop into bite-sized chunks. Toast walnuts in a dry frying pan over medium heat until fragrant, then transfer to a heat-proof container to cool.

Step 2: Caramelize Bananas

Slice bananas lengthwise and sauté in melted butter until golden brown on both sides. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cook until caramelized and soft. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Ice Cream Base

In a small pot, heat milk, cream, and glucose syrup until just simmering—don’t boil! Let cool slightly before blending with the caramelized bananas using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. Add vanilla extract and salt, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

Prepare your ice cream machine according to its instructions (e.g., pre-freeze the bowl if required). Pour in the chilled banana mixture and churn until thickened to soft-serve consistency—about 20–25 minutes.

Step 5: Add Mix-ins and Freeze

Fold in chocolate chunks and toasted walnuts during the final minutes of churning. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, smooth out the top, and freeze for at least 5 hours or until firm.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve scoops in waffle cones or bowls with extra chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
  • Stirring during freezing ensures even distribution of mix-ins.
  • Toasting walnuts enhances their nutty flavor—don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before scooping for easier serving.