Description
This Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream recipe is a refreshing and creamy homemade treat, perfectly balanced with cool mint flavor and sweet chocolate chips. Made with simple ingredients and churned to a smooth, soft-serve texture before firming up in the freezer, this delightful ice cream is perfect for warm days or any time you crave a sweet frozen 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)
Mix-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavorings: 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 evenly distributed.
- Chill the Mixture: Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill the ice cream base for at least 2 hours or until it is thoroughly cold to ensure proper churning.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn following the manufacturer’s instructions for about 20–25 minutes until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Add Chocolate Chips: During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips to incorporate them evenly throughout the ice cream.
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container, smoothing out the surface. Press parchment paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.
- Serve: Before serving, allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for easier scooping and enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
- For the best texture, ensure the ice cream base is well chilled before churning.
- Adjust the amount of chocolate chips to your preference for sweetness and texture.
- Green food coloring is optional and purely for aesthetic purposes.
- If you do not have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a container, stirring every 30 minutes until firm to prevent ice crystals.
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
