Description
This Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream recipe offers a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. Creamy, minty ice cream studded with semi-sweet chocolate chunks provides a perfect balance of flavors. Made from scratch using an ice cream maker, it’s an ideal homemade treat for warm days or anytime you crave a cool dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon green food coloring (optional)
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavors and Color: Stir in the mint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If desired, add the green food coloring and mix until the color is even throughout the mixture.
- Chill Mixture: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it is completely cold to ensure proper churning.
- Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn following the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20 to 25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Add Chocolate Chips: In the last 5 minutes of churning, add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips to evenly incorporate them into the ice cream.
- Prepare for Freezing: Transfer the softened ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top and press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze Until Firm: Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or until firm and scoopable.
- Serve: Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature before scooping and serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a stronger mint flavor, adjust the mint extract to your taste, but be cautious as it can become overpowering.
- Green food coloring is optional and only needed if you want the traditional mint ice cream color.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow container, stirring every 30 minutes until firm to mimic the churning process.
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
