Creamy Chocolate Ice Cream

I think everybody needs a basic chocolate ice cream recipe. Just think of all the possibilities you can do with it: Rocky Road, brownie chunks, Reese's cups, Chocolate-Strawberry, Caramel... and all of you more creative people can think of dozens of other flavors and add-ins to try. Or, if you like to keep it simple, just leave it plain and you'll be left with a creamy, thick ice cream that melts in your mouth. My mother-in-law and I made this up along with some strawberry ice cream to eat after a hot day of swimming, BBQ and yard games. I can't think of a more perfect ending to one of those days than homemade ice cream. This is a very basic ice cream recipe that literally comes together in less than 10 minutes. The tricky part is just waiting for it to cool so you can add it into your ice cream maker to enjoy the result. I'm looking forward to the summer months ahead to try out more flavors and new mix-ins... there really isn't anything that can compare to the taste and texture of homemade ice cream!! (Picture courtesy of Amanda's cookin') 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 cups whipping cream
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

 In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and sugar until sugar is dissolved. Whisk in whipping cream and vanilla just until combined. Pour milk mixture into a medium saucepan and add in chocolate chips. Stir over medium heat until the chocolate chips melt into the milk mixture. Remove from heat and let cool 15-20 minutes. Put pan in fridge and let cool completely (about 1 hour). When mixture is cold, pour into ice cream maker and proceed following manufacturer's instructions.

(Note: if you prefer your ice cream to be harder, simply transfer to a Tupperware and put in freezer for 1-2 hours or until it hardens to your preference.)