Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that marries the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry with rich chocolate. This treat is perfect for special occasions or simply as a sweet way to end a meal. The layers of creamy ice cream, cherry compote, and a crunchy cookie crust create a delicious harmony that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake at home is a great way to impress family and friends. It’s a fun activity to do in the kitchen, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Not only is it delicious, but it also combines a variety of textures and flavors, ensuring that your taste buds will enjoy every bite. Plus, you can customize it to your liking by adding different toppings or variations!

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

Prepare crust: Mix together the crushed cookies, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
Prepare ice cream: In a bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prepare cherry compote: In a saucepan, mix the chopped cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Assemble cake: Spread a layer of ice cream over the crust. Top with a layer of cherry compote. Repeat these layers until you use all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of ice cream on top.
Prepare chocolate ganache: In a double boiler, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Pour this ganache over the top of the cake.
Freeze cake: Place the cake in the freezer for at least 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Serve Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake by slicing it into pieces with a sharp knife. You can garnish each slice with extra cherries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for an added touch. It’s best served straight from the freezer for a refreshingly cold dessert.

How to Store Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Store any leftover Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake in the freezer. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to two weeks in the freezer. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting into it for easier serving.

Tips to Make Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding a bit more cocoa powder to the ice cream mixture.
Experiment with different fruits or toppings for the compote, such as strawberries or raspberries, if cherries are not available.
Make sure the ganache is not too hot when poured over the cake to avoid melting the ice cream.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your tastes. For a nutty twist, add crushed nuts to the crust or sprinkle them between layers. If you want a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk and cream.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can prepare this cake a day in advance and store it in the freezer until you are ready to serve.

2. What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can stir the ice cream mixture every 30 minutes as it freezes to break up ice crystals. This will create a creamier texture without an ice cream maker.

3. How long does the cherry compote last?
The cherry compote can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.

Enjoy making and sharing your Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake!