If you’re a fan of Nutella (and let’s be honest—who isn’t?), get ready to fall in love. This Nutella ice cream is everything you want in a summer treat: it’s rich, creamy, smooth, and packed with that delicious chocolate-hazelnut flavor. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker. All you need is 5 minutes, 4 ingredients, and a little freezer space. Whether you scoop it into cones, layer it between cookies, or serve it in fancy dessert bowls, this no-churn Nutella ice cream will become your go-to summer favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of my favorite ice cream recipes ever—it’s incredibly easy, and always a hit with both kids and adults. You can customize it with your favorite hazelnut spread, make it in advance, and pull it out anytime you need a little indulgence. It’s also way creamier than many store-bought options, thanks to the perfect combo of whipped cream and condensed milk.
Ingredients (Makes About 500 g of Ice Cream)
- 300 ml cold heavy cream (1 ¼ cups)
- 120 ml sweetened condensed milk (½ cup)
- 200 g Nutella or hazelnut spread (about ¾ cup) — You can swap Nutella for any high-quality hazelnut spread, like this Amazon hazelnut spread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon rum (optional but recommended)
Instructions: How to Make Nutella Ice Cream Without a Machine
Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the cold cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. It should be fluffy but not overly stiff.
Mix the Nutella Base
In a separate bowl, mix Nutella, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and rum. Stir well until smooth.
Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the Nutella mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Take your time to combine everything without deflating the cream.
Freeze
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smooth the surface, and cover with a lid or plastic wrap.
Chill
Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream reaches your desired consistency. Check after 3–4 hours to test it.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once firm, scoop your homemade Nutella ice cream into cones, bowls, or cookies for a delicious summer treat.
Serve It Fancy
Make your homemade Nutella gelato feel like a dessert from your favorite café. Serve it in waffle cones or small dessert cups and top with whipped cream, fresh seasonal berries (like raspberries or strawberries), a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a few pieces of hazelnut brittle. It’s perfect for dinner parties, birthdays, or just because you deserve something special.
Why Rum Helps Keep It Creamy
You might be tempted to skip the alcohol, but just one tablespoon of rum helps prevent the mixture from freezing rock-solid. It keeps your ice cream soft and scoopable—even straight from the freezer. Don’t worry—you won’t taste it!
Variations and Toppings for this Nutella Ice Cream Recipe
There are so many fun and delicious ways to customize this Nutella ice cream and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a nut-free version, a more grown-up twist, or something extra crunchy and decadent, here are some of our favorite ideas:
Nut-Free Option
If you or someone in your family has a nut allergy, don’t worry—you can still enjoy this recipe! Simply use a chocolate spread that’s made without nuts, such as a nut-free cocoa spread or a dairy-free chocolate alternative. The texture and richness will still be amazing, and no one will miss the nuts.
Boozy Version for Adults
Want to give your ice cream a grown-up touch? Replace the rum with a splash of hazelnut liqueur (like Frangelico) or even a bit of Baileys for a creamy twist. The alcohol not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the ice cream from becoming too icy, making each scoop perfectly creamy and scoopable.
Crunchy Delight
If you’re someone who loves texture in your ice cream, mix in a handful of chopped hazelnuts, dark chocolate chips, or crushed cookies just before freezing. These tasty additions will add a delightful crunch and surprise in every bite.
Kid-Friendly Nutella Ice Cream
This Nutella ice cream is already a big hit with kids, but you can make it even more fun (and a little healthier) for little ones with a few simple tweaks. Try replacing the rum with 1–2 tablespoons of butter to keep it 100% alcohol-free while still adding creaminess.
You can also involve your kids in the prep! Let them swirl the Nutella into the whipped cream or help with pouring the mixture into the container. Want to make it more exciting? Pour the mixture into popsicle molds for fun Nutella ice cream bars. Add a few sprinkles or mini chocolate chips before freezing to turn snack time into a little party!
It’s a great way to keep them cool and happy on a hot day—and they’ll love saying, “I made this!”
Nutella Ice Cream Storage Tips
Store your Nutella ice cream in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. To serve easily, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping. If stored properly, it won’t develop freezer crystals thanks to the condensed milk and rum.
More No-Churn Ice Cream Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this creamy Nutella ice cream, don’t miss out on our other no-churn frozen treats! They’re just as easy, refreshing, and packed with flavor—perfect for hot summer days or anytime you’re craving a homemade dessert.
Click through and discover your new favorite homemade gelato!
I Make This Ultra-Creamy Nutella Ice Cream Without a Machine—and Everyone Asks for the Recipe
Ingredients
- 300 ml cold heavy cream
- 120 ml sweetened condensed milk
- 200 g Nutella or hazelnut spread
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon rum optional but recommended
Method
- In a chilled bowl, whip the cold cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. It should be fluffy but not overly stiff.
- In a separate bowl, mix Nutella, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and rum. Stir well until smooth.
- Gently fold the Nutella mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Take your time to combine everything without deflating the cream.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smooth the surface, and cover with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream reaches your desired consistency. Check after 3–4 hours to test it.
- Once firm, scoop your homemade Nutella ice cream into cones, bowls, or cookies for a delicious summer treat. To serve easily, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.
