Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The cool mint perfectly complements the rich chocolate, offering a harmonious blend of tastes.
- Creamy Texture: Using whole milk and heavy cream ensures a smooth and luscious consistency.
- Homemade Goodness: Crafting this ice cream at home allows for quality control and the joy of creating a classic treat from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1-3/4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1-3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 4 drops green food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it reaches 175°F. Stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt until dissolved.
- Temper the Eggs: Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the lightly beaten eggs to prevent curdling. Return this mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook the Custard: Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, reaching at least 160°F (about 2-3 minutes). Do not let it boil. Remove from heat immediately.
- Combine with Cream: Quickly cool the custard by placing the saucepan in an ice bath. Stir in the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and green food coloring if desired.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the mixture until it is thoroughly chilled, approximately 4 hours or overnight.
- Churn: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Add Chocolate Chips: During the last few minutes of churning, add the miniature semisweet chocolate chips.
- Freeze: Transfer the soft ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze for 2-4 hours or until firm.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 1 quart (8 servings)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Churn Time: 20 minutes
- Freezing Time: 2-4 hours
Variations
- Mint Variations: For a natural mint flavor, steep fresh mint leaves in the heated milk, then strain before proceeding.
- Chocolate Swirl: Melt semisweet chocolate and drizzle it into the ice cream during the last few minutes of churning for a chocolate ribbon effect.
- Cookie Crumble: Add crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Serving: Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.
FAQs
How can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
You can make a no-churn version by whipping 2 cups of cold heavy cream to stiff peaks, then folding in a mixture of sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chocolate chips, pour into a container, and freeze until firm.
Can I use fresh mint instead of peppermint extract?
Yes, steeping fresh mint leaves in the heated milk can provide a natural mint flavor. Strain the leaves out before combining with the other ingredients.
Is the green food coloring necessary?
No, the food coloring is optional and only affects the appearance, not the flavor.
How can I prevent ice crystals from forming in my homemade ice cream?
Ensure the custard base is thoroughly chilled before churning, and store the finished ice cream in an airtight container to minimize ice crystal formation.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Using low-fat milk will result in a less creamy texture. For best results, stick with whole milk and heavy cream.
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Miniature semisweet chocolate chips are ideal as they distribute evenly and provide a pleasant texture.
How long does homemade ice cream last in the freezer?
For optimal flavor and texture, consume homemade ice cream within 2 weeks.
Can I add other mix-ins to this ice cream?
Yes, feel free to add nuts, cookie pieces, or caramel swirls during the last few minutes of churning.
What can I do if my ice cream base curdles?
If the base curdles, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling to remove any lumps.
Conclusion
Making Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream at home is a rewarding experience that yields a deliciously refreshing dessert. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy this classic treat anytime.
