Ninja Creami Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream

Ingredients:

For the Ice Cream Base:

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
1/2 cup hot water (to dissolve cocoa powder)

For the Hot Chocolate Flavor:

1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
1/2 tsp instant coffee granules (optional, for added richness)

Instructions:

Make the Chocolate Base:
- In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder and hot water until smooth. Set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa mixture and vanilla extract to the milk and cream. Stir until completely combined and smooth.
- Add the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Chill the Base:
- Once the chocolate mixture has cooled to room temperature, pour it into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Freeze the Base:
- Pour the chilled mixture into the Ninja Creami container. Attach the lid and place the container in the freezer. Freeze for at least 24 hours until solid.
Process the Ice Cream:
- Once the ice cream is frozen, place the container into the Ninja Creami machine. Select the “Ice Cream” setting and process until smooth and creamy.
Add Marshmallows (Optional):
- If desired, add mini marshmallows or instant coffee granules to the processed ice cream and pulse gently a few times to incorporate. This will give it the “hot chocolate” feel with marshmallow chunks or a deeper flavor.
Serve:
- Scoop the Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream into bowls or cones, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and top with extra marshmallows for the ultimate hot chocolate experience in ice cream form!

Tips:

Flavor Add-ins: You can add chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to give the ice cream a warm, comforting taste.
Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and coconut cream in place of the whole milk and heavy cream, and make sure the chocolate is dairy-free.
Extra Creaminess: To make your ice cream even richer, consider adding a few tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk to the base.