Photography by Helen Rosner
Eaten cold—whether in ice cream, pudding, ganache, or cream pie—chocolate’s earthy bitterness and buttery tones allow for an unexpected depth of flavor. Simultaneously rich and refreshing, soothing and invigorating, these summertime chocolate desserts are an irresistible marriage of extremes.
Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches
In these minty ice cream sandwiches, the chocolate mousse “ice cream” and cake are both sweetened with bittersweet chocolate, letting the chocolate’s richness—brightened by fresh spearmint—be the main flavor.
Chocolate Egg Cream
For many kids, it’s a relief to discover there’s no actual egg in a chocolate egg cream–just a frothy mix of cold milk, seltzer, and rich chocolate syrup.
The Darkest Chocolate Ice Cream in the World
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Columbus, OH has some of the most amazing flavors around, but they all start with one simple base. This recipe calls for both cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate.
David Lebovitz’s Mocha Sherbet
This chocolate and espresso delight from David Lebovitz is a rich fudgy combination of favorite flavors that is surprisingly light and refreshing.
Alice Medrich’s Chocolate Pudding
Don’t get fooled by the simplicity of a chocolate pudding. This rich, velvety dessert, flavored with bittersweet chocolate and rum, is a real crowd pleaser.
Chocolate Caramel Tart
Dark Dutch-process cocoa powder makes for a more flavorful, cookie-like crust, serving as the perfect base for a layer of rich caramel topped with decadent ganache.
Horchata with Chocolate and Pumpkin Seeds
Horchata, a cool, creamy drink popular across Latin America, is frequently made from ground almonds and rice. This decadent adaptation, spiked with cinnamon and dark chocolate, tastes rich and nutty and makes a delightful liquid dessert.
White Chocolate-Cream Cheese Mousse
In this updated take on a classic French dessert, cream cheese adds stability and a pleasing tang, which balances the sweet white chocolate without overpowering it.
Mexican Chocolate Icebox Cookies
At brunch at the Liberty Bar in San Antonio, a plate of these spicy-sweet cookies is set down on the table at the beginning of the meal—gratis. Featured in our book Best Cookies, they make a perfect cookie for holiday parties, especially when drizzled with a little melted white chocolate.
