Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe
Mint chocolate chip ice cream is a beloved classic, known for its refreshing minty flavor paired with rich chocolate chunks. This homemade version of the recipe is creamy, smooth, and packed with a delicious balance of sweetness and cool mint. Making ice cream at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and natural flavor without artificial additives. Whether you’re making it for a summer treat or just indulging in a timeless dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 4-6 hours (chilling and freezing)
- Total Time: 5-7 hours
- Cuisines: American, Dessert
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: 250 kcal
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Ice cream maker
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Airtight container
- Spatula
- Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3-4 drops green food coloring (optional)
- ¾ cup chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat the mixture until it begins to steam but do not let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly pale.
- Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Gradually pour the tempered eggs back into the saucepan, stirring constantly with a spatula.
- Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Cool
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and food coloring if using.
- Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results).
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
- When the ice cream is almost done, add the chopped chocolate and continue churning until well combined.
Step 4: Freeze and Serve
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and spread it evenly.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Serve in bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream!
Tips for the Best Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for a natural and fresh flavor.
- Adding the chocolate towards the end of churning prevents it from sinking to the bottom.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping for the best texture.
Enjoy making this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe, a homemade delight that’s refreshing, creamy, and filled with delicious chocolatey goodness!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.