Pin it
There is something completely joyful about this Kit Kat ice cream every spoonful is rippled with rich chocolate and crunchy bites of candy bar alongside soft vanilla wafer cookies The combination is decadent and playful perfect for celebrating summer or sharing with friends who love a good candy-packed treat
The first time I made this it was for a movie night I wanted something with a little crunch and every single guest asked for the recipe The Kit Kat bits never fail to get a smile
Ingredients
- Heavy cream: adds richness and ensures a creamy not icy texture choose the freshest you can find for best flavor
- Dutch process cocoa: brings bold chocolate taste look for a deep almost black powder for the richest result
- Sugar: balances the dark cocoa and sweetens the cream use fine granulated for easy mixing
- Kosher salt: sharpens flavors just a pinch is enough
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: melt into the base for double the chocolate look for shiny firm chips with no chalky dust
- Milk: lightens the cream base choose whole milk for body
- Vanilla extract: boosts the ice cream’s scent and makes the chocolate taste more complex
- Kit Kat candy bars: the star of the show chop into small even squares for best bites look for fresh bars with a satisfying snap
- Vanilla wafer cookies: bring subtle crunch and soaked softness use crisp wafers and avoid any that feel soft out of the package
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Chocolate Base:
- In a large saucepan whisk cream cocoa sugar and salt together Gently heat over medium stirring constantly until everything is dissolved and the mixture is steaming with small bubbles at the edges Never stop stirring so nothing scorches
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Remove saucepan from the heat Immediately add the chocolate chips Whisk until you see no lumps and the mixture goes glossy and smooth
- Finish the Ice Cream Mix:
- Stir in the cold milk and a splash of vanilla extract Move the pan somewhere cool and let rest until no steam remains then cover and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight The colder your base the creamier your churned ice cream
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once your mix is completely chilled churn it according to your ice cream maker’s instructions The volume should double and look like soft serve
- Prepare the Mix ins:
- While the machine is running chop Kit Kats and vanilla wafers into small half inch pieces You want each spoonful to catch a piece
- Layer the Add-ins:
- Spread one third of the churned ice cream in an eight inch loaf pan Sprinkle a generous handful of Kit Kat and cookie chunks over Repeat twice using all the mix and toppings
- Freeze Until Firm:
- Cover and freeze the layered ice cream for at least two to three hours until scoopable and firm
Pin it
Kit Kat bars have always been a family favorite in my house so turning them into an ice cream was only natural I sometimes sneak a little extra vanilla wafer for myself because that soft bite is secretly my favorite part
Storage Tips
This ice cream keeps well in an airtight container for up to two weeks To keep the chunks crunchy press a piece of parchment directly against the top before sealing Always let it sit on the counter for a few minutes before scooping for the smoothest texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of Kit Kats any chocolate covered wafer or even peanut butter cups add a fun twist Substitute graham crackers for vanilla wafers for a s’mores inspired version and feel free to use bittersweet chocolate chips for a grown up edge
Serving Suggestions
Serve in cones to highlight the toasty crumb topping or make a sundae bar by adding more chopped candy and a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce A little whipped cream on top always makes it feel special
Pin it
Cultural Context
Cookie filled ice creams are classics in American soda shops and Kit Kat bars have been a beloved movie treat for decades This recipe brings together both playful nostalgia and creamy comfort in every bowl
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Yes, milk chocolate may be used for a milder, sweeter flavor. Adjust sweetness as needed since milk chocolate is sweeter than semi-sweet.
- → Is an ice cream maker required?
An ice cream maker yields the smoothest texture, but you can freeze the mixture in a pan and stir every hour for a homemade alternative.
- → How long should I chill the mixture before churning?
For best results, chill the base for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure a custard-like, creamy consistency.
- → Can other cookies or candies be added?
Feel free to swap the Kit Kat bars or vanilla wafers with other candies, cookies, or mix-ins of your choice to customize the flavor.
- → How should I store the finished dessert?
Transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer. If the dessert hardens, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.