Chocolate and cardamom ice cream is a perfect alliance between the intensity of chocolate and the warm and spicy scent of cardamom . Add to that some pieces of golden hazelnuts , and you get a dessert that is at once rich, spicy and crunchy. This is an ideal recipe for chocolate lovers who want to experiment with bold and exotic flavors.

Ingredients for the chocolate and cardamom ice cream:
- 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa minimum)
- 100 ml full cream (or vegetable cream for a lactose-free option)
- 200 ml of milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tablespoon cardamom powder (or 3 to 4 crushed cardamom pods)
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ingredients for the golden hazelnut pieces:
- 100 g whole shelled hazelnuts
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of water
Preparation of chocolate and cardamom ice cream:
- Cardamom infusion :
In a small saucepan, heat the milk with the cardamom powder (or crushed cardamom pods). Leave to simmer for about 5 minutes so that the cardamom releases all its aromas. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Filter to remove cardamom pods, if necessary. - Melt the chocolate :
In another saucepan or in a bain-marie, gently melt the dark chocolate, stirring regularly to prevent it from burning. - Mix the cream and chocolate :
In a bowl, mix the cream, cardamom-infused milk, maple syrup (or sugar) and vanilla extract. Incorporate the melted dark chocolate into the mixture and whisk well until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous texture. - Freezing :
Pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami and leave to freeze for at least 24 hours. - Transformation into ice cream :
Once the preparation is well frozen, use the “Ice” mode of the Ninja Creami to obtain a soft and creamy texture.

Preparation of golden hazelnuts:
- Caramelize the hazelnuts :
In a small skillet, heat the sugar and water over medium heat until the sugar begins to caramelize. Add the whole hazelnuts and stir well to coat them with caramel. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. - Leave to cool :
Spread the caramelized hazelnuts on a sheet of baking paper so that they cool. Once the caramel has hardened, break the hazelnuts into small pieces.
Dessert assembly:
- Serve the ice cream :
Serve the chocolate and cardamom ice cream in glasses or glasses. - Add the golden hazelnut pieces :
golden hazelnut pieces generously over the ice cream for a crunchy and sweet contrast. - Optional decoration :
For an even more delicious touch, add dark chocolate shavings or sprinkle an extra pinch of cardamom on top.
Tips for serving:
- Contrast of textures : The creamy softness of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the crunch of the caramelized hazelnuts, creating a complete sensory experience.
- Perfect pairing : This ice cream goes very well with a cup of coffee or spiced tea , for even more richness in flavors.
Why is this recipe special?
The combination of cardamom and dark chocolate creates a blend of flavors that is both comforting and exotic. Cardamom, with its slightly spicy, lemony taste, balances the bitterness of the chocolate, while golden hazelnuts add a touch of sweetness and crunch. It is an elegant and original dessert that surprises with its contrasts of flavors and textures.
Conclusion :
ice cream with golden hazelnut pieces is a refined dessert, perfect for those who love bold and rich flavors. With Ninja Creami , you'll get a perfectly creamy texture, while the caramelized hazelnuts add crunch and subtle sweetness to every bite. An ideal recipe to impress your guests or treat yourself with a delicious and unique creation.