Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe

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Cozy Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe, Made Simple

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve reached for a homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream on a warm weekend afternoon. There’s something both refreshing and indulgent about that cool burst of mint paired with crunchy chocolate bits. It’s like a little celebration in every spoonful.

What makes this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe special is how approachable it is—no fancy ingredients or tricks, just straightforward steps that bring out velvety, creamy ice cream with that perfect balance of minty brightness and chocolaty crunch. You’ll love making this again and again!

Picture yourself scooping out this soft, buttery ice cream, its toasty aroma of chocolate chips weaving with the crisp, cool scent of peppermint. Whether you’re sharing with family or enjoying a quiet moment, this recipe feels like a treat worth savoring.

Ingredient Lowdown

• 2 cups heavy cream: This gives your ice cream that luxuriously rich and smooth texture I love.
• 1 cup whole milk: Balances creaminess without weight—helps keep it scoopable.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just right; feel free to adjust slightly to taste.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star that delivers that refreshing mint burst; fresh quality matters here.
• 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional): Just a touch for that classic minty hue—it’s all about the vibe.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Adds toasty crunch and melty bites—mini chips or chopped bittersweet work well.
• A pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors and keeps sweetness balanced.

Set Up for Success

Before you dive in, gather your ingredients and tools to keep the flow smooth. Whisking everything together before churning ensures your Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe comes out perfectly creamy. Since this ice cream relies on cold churning, make sure your ice cream maker’s bowl is frozen solid—usually overnight is ideal.

Step-by-Step: Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe

1. Whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar in a large bowl until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates the creamy base that’s smooth and not grainy.
2. Add peppermint extract, salt, and food coloring if using, then whisk again to fully combine. The mint aroma will start to tease your senses here.
3. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and start churning according to the manufacturer’s settings. It usually takes 20–30 minutes to reach a luscious soft-serve consistency.
4. In the last 5 minutes of churning, add the chocolate chips so they distribute evenly without sinking to the bottom. You’ll see the little dark pearls swirl through the pale green base beautifully.
5. Transfer the soft ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up. This step lets the flavors meld and the texture become perfectly sliceable or scoopable.
6. Serve in bowls or cones, and enjoy immediately! You’ll notice the refreshing crispness of mint balanced by the buttery richness of cream and chocolate crunch with every bite.

Flavor Twists for Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe

• Swap peppermint extract with fresh mint leaves: Infuse heated cream and milk with fresh mint for a herbal twist.
• Add crushed peppermint candies: Fold in crushed candy canes during last churn phase for an extra crunch and festive feel.
• Use white chocolate chips instead of dark: Creates a sweeter, creamier chocolate contrast.
• Drizzle in caramel or fudge sauce: Layer ribbons inside for a decadent surprise.
• Mix in toasted nuts: Chopped pistachios or almonds add a nutty crunch balancing the mint.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Freeze airtight: Store leftover ice cream in a sealed container to prevent ice crystals or freezer burn.
• Preparation ahead: Whisk your base and refrigerate overnight to deepen flavors before churning.
• Soften before serving: Let ice cream sit out 5-10 minutes for scoop-friendly texture.
• Double batch and share: Ice cream keeps well up to 2 weeks, perfect for crowd-pleasing gatherings.

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

• Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker? Yes! Pour your mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until smooth—a bit more work but totally doable.
• Is fresh mint extract better than peppermint extract? Fresh mint can add herbal brightness, but peppermint extract gives that signature cool and clean flavor we’re aiming for here.
• Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk or cream? Using lower-fat dairy will affect creaminess and texture—expect a lighter but icier finish.
• Why do we add salt to ice cream? A pinch of salt enhances sweetness and balances flavors without making it salty.
• How do I keep chocolate chips from sinking? Adding them near the end of churning helps them mix evenly without sinking to the bottom of the container.

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