Mint chocolate chip ice cream is like a cool breeze on a hot summer day. Imagine a creamy, luscious texture melting in your mouth, with the refreshing taste of mint dancing a happy jig alongside the delightful crunch of chocolate chips. This delightful treat isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that can transport you back to childhood summers spent chasing ice cream trucks and battling sticky fingers. For more inspiration, check out this check out more dessert recipes recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use fresh mint instead of extract?
- How do I prevent icy ice cream?
- What if I want a stronger mint flavor?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I tried making mint chocolate chip ice cream at home. It was a hot July afternoon, and I had just discovered my mother’s old ice cream maker hidden in the depths of our pantry. I couldn’t resist the temptation to whip up this classic flavor, and that day transformed into an epic battle against melting ice cream and eager family members ready to dig in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort
- Its vibrant green color brings joy to any dessert table while the flavor is both refreshing and rich
- Perfect for summer parties or cozy nights on the couch, this ice cream can be enjoyed by everyone!
The reactions from friends and family were priceless when they took their first bites of my homemade version. It was pure happiness encapsulated in a cone.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Heavy Cream: The backbone of your ice cream, providing that rich, creamy texture we all adore.
Whole Milk: Adds smoothness while balancing out the richness of the heavy cream.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the mixture perfectly; adjust based on your taste preference.
Peppermint Extract: The star ingredient! Use high-quality extract for an intense minty flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chips for a delightful contrast to the mint.
Green Food Coloring (optional): A few drops add visual appeal, making your creation as fun as it is delicious!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Start by gathering your ingredients so you won’t look like a mad scientist in the kitchen. Trust me; no one wants to search for peppermint extract while their ice cream mixture warms up.
Mixing the Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and peppermint extract until well combined. You want everything to blend together like best friends at a reunion!
Coloring Your Mixture: If you’re feeling fancy, add green food coloring drop by drop until you achieve your desired shade of minty goodness. Remember—this is not just about taste; we eat with our eyes too!
Chilling is Key: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about two hours. This step helps deepen those flavors and ensures a smoother texture.
Churning Time!: Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker according to its instructions. Churn until it thickens into soft-serve consistency—about 20-25 minutes depending on your machine’s power.
Add Chocolate Chips: In the last few minutes of churning, fold in those magnificent chocolate chips. They should be evenly distributed but still have that satisfying crunch when you bite into them.
Freezing for Perfection: Transfer your freshly churned mint chocolate chip ice cream into an airtight container. Freeze it for at least four hours before indulging—it’ll be worth every minute of waiting!
Now you have homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream that rivals any store-bought version! Enjoy it in cones or bowls or even as part of an elaborate sundae—your call!
You Must Know
- Mint chocolate chip ice cream is a delightful treat that balances rich chocolate with refreshing mint
- The creamy texture and vibrant color make it a favorite for both kids and adults
- Experimenting with fresh mint can elevate the flavor profile significantly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. This helps achieve a fluffy texture. While the cream chills, mix the other ingredients separately to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular milk for almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Adding crushed peppermint candies can also enhance the mint flavor and add crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store your mint chocolate chip ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To soften, leave it at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect mint chocolate chip ice cream, always chill your ingredients beforehand for better consistency
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor
- Remember to fold gently to keep that creamy texture intact, preventing icy crystals from forming
Sharing my homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream with friends turned into an unforgettable summer night filled with laughter and compliments that still makes me smile.
FAQ
Can I use fresh mint instead of extract?
Absolutely! Fresh mint gives an incredible flavor but requires careful extraction for balance.
How do I prevent icy ice cream?
Make sure to churn your mixture well and store it properly in an airtight container.
What if I want a stronger mint flavor?
Consider adding more extract gradually until you reach your desired level of minty goodness. For more inspiration, check out this explore more desserts recipe.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Mint chocolate chip ice cream is the ultimate summer treat that combines a creamy base with refreshing mint and crunchy chocolate chips. This easy homemade recipe will bring back nostalgic childhood memories of chasing ice cream trucks on hot days. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply indulging on a cozy night, this vibrant dessert is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 2–3 drops green food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and peppermint extract until fully combined.
- Add green food coloring if desired, mixing until you reach your preferred shade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours to enhance flavor.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to its instructions for about 20-25 minutes until it thickens.
- Fold in chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning.
- Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least four hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg