Name: Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp pure peppermint extract; 2 drops green food coloring (optional); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Mint chocolate chip ice cream is the kind of treat that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine a scoop of creamy green goodness melting on your tongue, with rich dark chocolate chips adding delightful crunch. This refreshing combination is perfect on a hot day or as an after-dinner indulgence when you just want to kick back and relax.

I remember the first time I tried mint chocolate chip ice cream. It was a sultry summer evening at my grandma’s house. She served it in waffle cones while we sat on her porch watching fireflies blink like little stars. Every bite reminded me of childhood summers and carefree laughter—a true flavor experience that kept me coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This mouthwatering mint chocolate chip ice cream is easy to prepare and requires no fancy equipment
The vibrant green color and contrasting dark chocolate make it visually stunning
Perfect for summer picnics or cozy nights in, everyone will love digging into this classic treat

I still chuckle every time my friends dive into this delicious creation; their eyes widen and smiles grow big like kids in a candy store!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Heavy Cream: Choose high-quality heavy cream for that ultra-creamy texture that feels luxurious in every spoonful.
Whole Milk: Whole milk complements the heavy cream perfectly, creating a balanced base for the ice cream.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten it up! Granulated sugar helps enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Peppermint Extract: Use pure peppermint extract for a robust flavor; avoid imitation extracts for the best results.
Green Food Coloring (optional): A drop or two adds that classic minty green color—perfect for impressing guests!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips provide delightful bites of richness throughout the creamy base.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create the Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and peppermint extract until fully combined. You want it light and frothy.

Add Color (optional): If you’re feeling fun, add just a couple drops of green food coloring to achieve that iconic look! Mix well until evenly distributed.

Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step enhances flavor infusion and ensures smooth texture.

Churn Away!: Pour your chilled mixture into your ice cream maker following manufacturer instructions. Churn until you reach a soft-serve consistency—about 20-25 minutes depending on your machine.

Add Chocolate Chips: Once churned, gently fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

Freeze It Up!: Transfer your mint chocolate chip ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm enough to scoop easily.

Now that you’ve created this heavenly dessert, it’s time to dig into this delightful treat! Enjoy each spoonful as creamy goodness envelops your senses like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or enjoying it alone while binge-watching your favorite series, this mint chocolate chip ice cream is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

You Must Know

Making mint chocolate chip ice cream is a delightful way to impress family and friends
Its refreshing minty flavor combined with rich chocolate chips tantalizes taste buds and creates memories of summer days, making it a perfect treat for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the mint leaves with sugar to extract their flavor, then combine with cream and milk. Churn it all in an ice cream maker for that creamy texture everyone craves.

Add Your Touch

For added creativity, consider swapping out the chocolate chips for crushed cookies or fruit chunks. You can also experiment with different types of milk for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your mint chocolate chip ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To soften, let it sit at room temperature for about five minutes before scooping.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly creamy ice cream, chill your mixture before churning
Use fresh mint leaves for vibrant flavors; dried won’t give you the same punch
Don’t over-churn; otherwise, you may end up with icy bits instead of smooth goodness

Creating this mint chocolate chip ice cream has become a cherished tradition in my family. Everyone gathers around to enjoy a scoop, sharing stories and laughter while savoring each bite.

FAQ

What is the best type of mint to use for mint chocolate chip ice cream?

Fresh spearmint works beautifully for flavor without overwhelming your taste buds.

Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

Yes! Simply freeze the mixture in a container and stir every 30 minutes until creamy.

How long does homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream last in the freezer?

It will stay fresh for about two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container.