Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the refreshing taste of mint with the rich, creamy texture of chocolate ice cream. Whether you’re craving a sweet indulgence on a hot day or looking for a fun dessert to impress guests, this homemade version will not disappoint. With its vibrant green color and deliciously cold flavor, this ice cream is sure to be a hit with all ages.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fat: 24 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 60 mg

Why Make This Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Nothing beats homemade ice cream, and this Mint Chocolate Chip version hits all the right notes. The silky smooth texture, the perfect balance of refreshing mint, and the crunchy chocolate chips make it an irresistible dessert. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your taste. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding process that will fill your kitchen with delightful scents of mint and chocolate. Enjoy this ice cream at family gatherings, summer parties, or simply as a personal treat to brighten your day.

How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Creating this delightful dessert is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Here’s how to bring this creamy concoction to life!

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
1 1/2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: a few drops green food coloring
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (mini or chopped)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and half the sugar. Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling.

Step 2: Mixing

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and slightly thickened. This will create a nice, creamy custard base for the ice cream.

Step 3: Cooking

Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot dairy mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper. This prevents the eggs from curdling. Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon at 170–175°F (77–80°C). Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 4: Finishing

Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring if desired. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any solids. Cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled for at least 3 hours or overnight. Churn the chilled base in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions, adding the chocolate chips during the last minutes of churning. Finally, transfer the churned mixture to a lidded, freezer-safe container and freeze for 2 to 4 hours or until firm before serving.

How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

This minty treat is best served in a chilled bowl or cone to enhance the refreshing experience. You can garnish it with extra chocolate chips, fresh mint leaves, or even a drizzle of hot fudge for an extra touch. Pair it with warm desserts like brownies or pie for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

How to Store Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

To keep your Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It will stay good for about 2 to 3 months. To soften it for easier scooping, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh heavy cream and milk will give your ice cream a richer flavor.
Chill Thoroughly: Ensure your custard mixture is fully chilled before churning for the best texture.
Don’t Skip the Sieve: Straining your mixture removes any lumps and results in smoother ice cream.
Adjust Mint Flavor: If you prefer a more intense mint flavor, feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to your liking.
Store Properly: To minimize ice crystals, pack the ice cream tightly into the container and press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing with the lid.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Mint Swirl: Add a swirl of chocolate sauce into the ice cream during the last minutes of churning for a marbled effect.
Mint Oreo: Mix crushed mint chocolate cookies into the ice cream for a playful twist.
Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can use spearmint extract or fresh mint leaves steeped in the milk and cream for a natural flavor.
How can I make dairy-free mint chocolate chip ice cream?
Substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk, and use a dairy-free chocolate chip.
How long does it take for the ice cream to harden after churning?
It usually takes about 2 to 4 hours to become firm enough for scooping in the freezer.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard?
Let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving to soften it slightly for easier scooping.

Conclusion

Making your own Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is not only a delicious endeavor but a rewarding one too! The process is simple, and the result is a creamy, cool treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its refreshing mint flavor and delightful chocolate bits, this homemade ice cream is bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner ice cream maker, and enjoy every scoop of this fantastic dessert!