If you love the chewy sweetness of nougat combined with rich chocolate and creamy vanilla ice cream, this Homemade Nougat Ice Cream – Double Decker Inspired Ice Cream will instantly become your new favorite dessert. Inspired by the classic candy bar layers of soft nougat and chocolate, this recipe transforms those nostalgic flavors into a luxurious frozen treat you can make right at home.

This nougat ice cream recipe blends fluffy honey nougat pieces with silky no-churn vanilla ice cream and generous swirls of chocolate. The result? A dessert that’s creamy, slightly chewy, lightly nutty, and deeply satisfying. Best of all, you don’t need an ice cream machine.

Whether you’re preparing a weekend dessert, planning a summer gathering, or simply craving something indulgent, this double decker inspired ice cream is the perfect homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Nougat Ice Cream

There are plenty of ice cream flavors out there, but this one stands apart for several reasons:

No ice cream maker required
Creamy, smooth texture
Soft honey nougat chunks in every bite
Rich chocolate contrast
Perfect balance of sweetness
Easy to customize

The combination of honey, nuts, and chocolate gives this homemade honey nougat ice cream a layered flavor profile that feels gourmet yet comforting.

What Is Nougat?

Nougat is a confection traditionally made with whipped egg whites, honey, sugar, and nuts. It’s soft, airy, and slightly chewy. Popular in Mediterranean and European desserts, nougat has become globally loved thanks to its presence in many famous candy bars.

In this chocolate nougat dessert, we create a simplified honey nougat base that remains soft even after freezing, ensuring you get that signature chewy bite inside smooth ice cream.

Ingredients

For the Honey Nougat

2 egg whites (room temperature)
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup honey
1 cup toasted almonds (roughly chopped)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Ice Cream Base

2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Layer

1 cup dark chocolate chunks or chopped chocolate
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother melt)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Nougat

Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a heatproof saucepan, combine honey and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
Meanwhile, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
Slowly pour the hot honey mixture into the egg whites while beating continuously on medium speed.
Continue beating for 5–7 minutes until thick, glossy, and fluffy.
Fold in vanilla extract and chopped toasted almonds.
Spread onto parchment paper and allow to cool completely.
Once set, cut into small bite-sized cubes.

This homemade nougat remains soft enough to mix into ice cream without becoming rock hard.

Step 2: Prepare the No-Churn Ice Cream Base

In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture using a spatula.
Fold carefully to keep the mixture airy and light.

This base creates a luxuriously smooth no churn nougat ice cream texture without crystals.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Melt dark chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Allow to cool slightly before layering.

Step 4: Assemble the Ice Cream

Pour half of the ice cream base into a loaf pan.
Sprinkle a generous layer of nougat pieces.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the nougat.
Add the remaining ice cream base.
Top with more nougat and chocolate swirls.
Use a knife to gently swirl layers for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Freeze

Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Freeze for at least 360 minutes (6 hours) or overnight.
Allow to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.

Texture & Flavor Experience

Each spoonful delivers:

Silky vanilla creaminess
Soft honey nougat chew
Crunchy toasted almonds
Rich dark chocolate contrast

The texture difference between smooth ice cream and chewy nougat creates a dynamic dessert that feels premium and satisfying.

Tips for Perfect Nougat Ice Cream

1. Use Fresh Egg Whites

Room temperature egg whites whip better and create fluffier nougat.

2. Don’t Overheat Honey

Overheating can cause bitterness. Use a thermometer for best results.

3. Toast the Nuts

Toasting almonds enhances flavor and adds depth.

4. Freeze Properly

Always cover tightly to prevent ice crystals.

Variations

Peanut Nougat Ice Cream

Swap almonds for roasted peanuts.

White Chocolate Version

Replace dark chocolate with melted white chocolate for a sweeter profile.

Salted Caramel Twist

Add ribbons of salted caramel sauce between layers.

Pistachio Nougat Edition

Use pistachios and add a drop of almond extract for a Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate nougat dessert pairs beautifully with:

Espresso or strong coffee
Fresh berries
Warm brownies
Chocolate sauce drizzle
Crushed honeycomb topping

Serve in chilled bowls for the best presentation.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 2 weeks.
Press parchment directly onto surface before sealing.

Fun Fact

Nougat dates back to ancient Mediterranean regions and is especially popular in Italy (Torrone) and France (Nougat de Montélimar). By combining it with ice cream, we create a modern frozen twist on a centuries-old confection.

Why This Recipe Works

The condensed milk provides sweetness and prevents ice crystals. Whipped cream ensures airiness. Nougat stays soft due to honey’s moisture-retaining properties. Together, they create a smooth, scoopable texture even after freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, use store-bought soft nougat pieces instead.

Can I use milk chocolate?

Absolutely, but reduce sweetness slightly elsewhere.

Do I need an ice cream maker?

No. This is a fully no-churn recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Nougat Ice Cream – Double Decker Inspired Ice Cream delivers everything you love about candy bars in frozen form. Creamy, chewy, chocolatey, and nutty — it’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion.

Make it once, and it might just become your signature homemade ice cream flavor.