Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pops are a fun and easy way to enjoy a creamy, chocolate-studded treat on a stick. These pops are perfect for cooling down on a hot day or as a quick dessert to delight kids and adults alike. With a smooth vanilla base and bursts of chocolate chips, they’re a simple yet satisfying frozen treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
- Portable Treat: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or summer gatherings.
- Customizable: Add extra toppings or mix-ins for a personal touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Vanilla ice cream (softened)
- Mini chocolate chips
- Optional: melted chocolate, sprinkles, crushed nuts for coating
- Popsicle sticks
- Popsicle molds (or small cups)
Directions
- Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, mix the softened vanilla ice cream with mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Fill the Molds: Spoon the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups, tapping to remove air bubbles.
- Insert Sticks: Insert a popsicle stick into the center of each mold.
- Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until fully set.
- Unmold the Pops: Run warm water over the outside of the molds to release the popsicles.
- Optional Coating: Dip the pops in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles or nuts. Return to the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set the coating.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in the freezer for later.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 6-8 pops
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freeze Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Cookie Dough Pops: Add small chunks of edible cookie dough to the mixture.
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Use mint-flavored ice cream and dark chocolate chips.
- Fruity Twist: Add swirls of strawberry or raspberry puree for a fruity pop.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a coconut or almond-based ice cream for a dairy-free treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wrap individual pops in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: These treats are meant to be enjoyed frozen and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade ice cream?
Yes, homemade ice cream works wonderfully for this recipe.
2. What if I don’t have popsicle molds?
Use small paper cups or silicone muffin molds as substitutes.
3. Can I make this with other ice cream flavors?
Absolutely! Chocolate, strawberry, or cookies and cream are great alternatives.
4. How do I keep the pops from sticking to the molds?
Run warm water over the outside of the molds before removing the popsicles.
5. Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?
Mini chocolate chips are preferred for even distribution, but regular chips can be chopped into smaller pieces.
6. How do I make a sugar-free version?
Use sugar-free ice cream and chocolate chips for a low-sugar treat.
7. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or candies?
Yes, stir in chopped nuts, crushed candies, or cookie pieces for added texture.
8. Can I dip the pops in caramel?
Yes, dip them in caramel sauce before freezing to add a sweet, gooey layer.
9. How do I prevent the sticks from falling out?
Ensure the sticks are inserted straight and stabilize them by freezing partially for 1 hour before fully setting.
10. Can I make these pops ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the freezer.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pops are the ultimate summertime treat, combining creamy vanilla ice cream with bursts of chocolate in every bite. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these pops are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings. Make a batch today and savor the cool, delicious joy of these irresistible frozen treats!
PrintChocolate Chip Ice Cream Pops
These Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pops are a fun, refreshing treat perfect for warm days. Creamy vanilla ice cream is studded with chocolate chips, molded onto sticks, and dipped in a crisp chocolate shell for a dessert that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 pops 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Pops:
- 2 cups (480 ml) vanilla ice cream, softened
- 1/2 cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Shell:
- 1 cup (200 g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) coconut oil
Optional Toppings:
- Sprinkles
- Crushed nuts
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix the softened vanilla ice cream with the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Mold the Pops:
- Spoon the mixture into popsicle molds, tapping the molds gently to remove air pockets.
- Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 4-6 hours, or until fully set.
- Make the Chocolate Shell:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Dip the Pops:
- Remove the ice cream pops from the molds. Dip each pop into the chocolate shell, letting the excess drip off.
- Immediately sprinkle with your choice of toppings before the chocolate sets.
- Set and Serve:
- Place the dipped pops on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for later.
Notes
- For a flavor twist, use mint chocolate chip or cookie dough ice cream.
- Substitute coconut oil with vegetable oil for the chocolate shell, but coconut oil helps it harden faster.
- Store leftover pops in an airtight container for up to 1 week.