Mint Chip Ice Cream is a classic and refreshing dessert that has long been a favorite for its cool, crisp flavor paired with rich chocolate chips. This delightful treat features a smooth, creamy base infused with natural mint flavor, which not only offers a vibrant, fresh taste but also an invitingly bright color. The addition of dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips provides a pleasing texture contrast to the silky ice cream, making every scoop a perfect balance of minty freshness and chocolatey indulgence. Perfect for hot summer days, special occasions, or as a year-round treat, homemade Mint Chip Ice Cream is an irresistible upgrade from the store-bought version, giving you full control over flavor intensity and ingredient quality.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract (adjust according to taste)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped into smaller bits
- Optional: A few drops of green food coloring for classic visual appeal
Directions:
- Prep the Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the sugar is completely dissolved. If you desire a green color typical of mint ice cream, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until uniformly colored.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it is thoroughly chilled. This step is crucial for achieving the smoothest texture in the final product.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
- Add Chocolate Chips:
- When the ice cream is about 5 minutes from being done, gradually add the chopped chocolate chips into the ice cream maker. Allow them to mix thoroughly into the ice cream.
- Freeze to Firm:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming. Close the container with a tight-fitting lid. Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm enough to scoop.
- Serve:
- Remove the ice cream from the freezer a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve with additional chocolate chips or fresh mint leaves if desired.
Mint Chip Ice Cream is a delightful, easy-to-make treat that combines the natural, cooling taste of mint with the sweet, comforting presence of chocolate, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether served at a family gathering, as a special treat after dinner, or as a cool snack on a warm day, it’s sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
