Cherry Garcia from Ben & Jerry's features rich cherry ice cream swirled with luscious chunks of ripe cherries and decadent chocolate flakes, delivering a harmonious blend of fruity sweetness and smooth chocolatey indulgence.
Equipments
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Large spoon or ladle
- Ice cream maker
- Freezer-safe container
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate (chips or bar for chopping)
Use fresh or frozen pitted sweet cherries based on availability, as either will provide the signature fruity bursts in your ice cream. Semisweet chocolate chips or a chopped chocolate bar work well, but chopping your own chocolate can ensure varied textures in each bite. Precise measurement of heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks is crucial for achieving the rich and creamy base of the ice cream. Stir the mixture carefully with a whisk and use a fine-mesh sieve to create a smooth custard without lumps. Your homemade Cherry Garcia from Ben & Jerry's copycat menu will deliver the same luscious combination of ripe cherries and indulgent chocolate flakes for a true dessert delight.
Instructions
- Measure and prepare all ingredients.
- Pit and roughly chop sweet cherries; set aside.
- Chop chocolate if not using chips; set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt.
- Heat mixture over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks.
- Gradually whisk some hot cream mixture into the yolks to temper.
- Pour egg-cream mixture back into saucepan.
- Stir constantly over low heat with heatproof spatula until thickened slightly (coats back of spoon).
- Remove from heat and pour through fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Cool custard to room temperature.
- Cover and chill custard in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Pour chilled custard into ice cream maker.
- Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Add chopped cherries and chocolate during the last few minutes of churning.
- Use rubber spatula to transfer ice cream into freezer-safe container.
- Cover container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Scoop and serve.
Substitution
Creating a Cherry Garcia from Ben & Jerry's copycat ice cream requires careful ingredient balance to capture its signature cherry and chocolate harmony. If fresh or frozen pitted cherries are unavailable, cherry preserves or dried cherries soaked in warm water can be used as substitutes, but adjust sugar levels to maintain sweetness. Semisweet chocolate chips may be replaced with bittersweet chocolate for a richer taste or milk chocolate for a milder flavor, depending on your preference. When mixing the ice cream base, temper your egg yolks carefully to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth custard texture. Your freezer-safe container should be airtight to prevent ice crystals from forming during freezing, preserving the creamy consistency.
Tips
When tempering egg yolks with the hot cream mixture, slowly whisk some of the hot liquid into the yolks to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth custard base. Chilling the custard thoroughly before churning is crucial for achieving the right texture and preventing ice crystals in your ice cream. Incorporate the chopped cherries and chocolate flakes during the last few minutes of churning to evenly distribute them without breaking them down too much. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the finished ice cream into a freezer-safe container, pressing down gently to minimize air pockets and help maintain creaminess.
Nutritions
Cherry Garcia ice cream contains a balance of macronutrients from heavy cream and whole milk, providing fats and proteins essential for energy and muscle repair. Sweet cherries add antioxidants and vitamins, notably vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. Semisweet chocolate contributes flavonoids with potential heart health benefits, though it also adds sugar and calories to the treat. You can enjoy this indulgent dessert while being mindful of portion size to maintain a balanced diet.
Storage
Store your Cherry Garcia ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals and maintain creamy texture. Keep the container tightly sealed and freeze at 0degF (-18degC) or below for up to two weeks to enjoy peak flavor and freshness. When ready to serve, allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute pitted sweet cherries with tart Montmorency cherries for a tangier flavor profile. For a healthier twist, replace heavy cream with coconut cream to bring a subtle tropical note. Consider folding in dark chocolate chunks instead of semisweet chocolate for a richer, less sweet chocolate flavor. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to gently fold in the cherries and chocolate can help preserve the texture without overmixing.
Allergies
Cherry Garcia ice cream contains dairy, eggs, and chocolate, which are common allergens that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have lactose intolerance or milk allergies, the heavy cream and whole milk may trigger symptoms. Additionally, the eggs and chocolate flakes could provoke allergies, so it's important to check your specific sensitivities before enjoying this treat.
Why this recipe?
Cherry Garcia from Ben & Jerry's restaurant is loved for its unique blend of rich cherry ice cream, generous chunks of cherry pieces, and decadent fudge flakes that create a perfectly balanced flavor and texture experience. The vibrant cherry taste combined with smooth, creamy ice cream delivers a refreshing yet indulgent treat appealing to both fruit and chocolate lovers. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this iconic dessert at home, customizing ingredients to your preference while replicating the signature taste that has made Cherry Garcia a fan favorite. Your effort to make it can result in a personalized, cost-effective delight that satisfies cravings anytime without visiting the store.