Viennetta Ice Cream Cake: Recreate the Classic at Home
A nostalgic, show-stopping frozen dessert featuring layers of silky ice cream and crisp magic chocolate shell swirled into elegant waves. A homemade take on the iconic Viennetta, with endless flavor customizations and retro flair.
Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Parchment or wax paper
- Offset spatula, knife, or skewer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or measuring cups
- Foil (for covering during freezing)
- ramekins or cake pop molds for variations Optional
Ingredients
- 1.5 quarts ice cream softened slightly, any flavor
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for homemade magic shell
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil for homemade magic shell
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts sprinkles, whipped cream, berries
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment or wax paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
- Let the ice cream soften slightly until spreadable.
- Spread a thin layer of ice cream into the pan. Swirl it gently with a spatula, knife, or skewer.
- Freeze until firm, about 20–30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the chocolate shell by melting chocolate chips and coconut oil together, stirring until smooth.
- Pour a thin layer of chocolate shell over the frozen ice cream layer. It will harden quickly.
- Repeat: add another layer of swirled ice cream, freeze, then add chocolate shell.
- Continue layering until the pan is full, ending with a decorative swirl and drizzle of chocolate.
- Cover with foil and freeze at least 4 hours or overnight.
- To serve, remove from pan using the paper overhang. Warm a sharp knife in hot water, wipe dry, and slice.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based ice cream and vegan chocolate.
- Flavor ideas: strawberry with white chocolate shell, mint chocolate chip, or espresso caramel swirl.
- Individual portions in ramekins or Viennetta cake pops make cute and fun serving options.
- Viennetta can be made up to a week in advance when tightly wrapped and stored in the freezer.
- To make slicing easier, let sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving.