If you are craving a refreshingly cool and sweet treat, this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe is just what you need. It combines the crisp, invigorating flavor of peppermint with creamy, dreamy ice cream and delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re a longtime fan of this classic flavor or trying it homemade for the first time, this recipe promises silky texture, just the right hint of mint, and plenty of chocolatey goodness to satisfy your dessert cravings. Plus, making it from scratch is simpler and more rewarding than you might think, giving you complete control over the ingredients and flavor intensity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these few, straightforward ingredients will set you up for success in crafting your perfect scoop. Each component plays its part, from the rich cream that delivers luscious texture to the peppermint extract that brings that iconic cooling taste, and the mini chocolate chips adding a satisfying crunch and sweet contrast.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the perfectly rich and creamy base that makes the ice cream so indulgent.
- 1 cup whole milk: Lightens the heavy cream slightly for a balanced, smooth consistency.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens evenly and helps achieve that classic ice cream softness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract: Delivers that unmistakable refreshing mint flavor; use pure peppermint, not mint extract, for the best taste.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 3–4 drops green food coloring (optional): Adds the fun traditional mint-green hue without affecting flavor.
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate: The delightful chocolate bits that give each spoonful a surprising crunch and richness.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Base Ingredients
Start by combining the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, peppermint extract, salt, and green food coloring (if you’re using it) in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely. This step is crucial to ensure your ice cream has a smooth, creamy texture without any graininess from undissolved sugar.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover your bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling is vital because it allows the flavors to blend beautifully and prepares the base for the churning process, which requires a cold mixture to freeze quickly and prevent ice crystals from forming.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
Once your mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker. Set it to churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions — typically around 20 to 25 minutes. In the last five minutes of churning, add your mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. This timing ensures your chocolate gets evenly distributed without sinking or clumping.
Step 4: Freeze to Firm Up
Transfer the churned ice cream into a lidded, freezer-safe container. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, then seal and freeze for at least 2 to 4 hours so the ice cream solidifies to perfect scoopability. When ready, scoop generously and enjoy the rich, minty, chocolate-speckled delight.
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving with some fresh garnishes. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint for that beautiful pop of green and fresh aroma, or try sprinkling chopped dark chocolate or extra mini chips on top for an indulgent finish. Whipped cream makes a wonderful fluffier contrast as well.
Side Dishes
This ice cream pairs magically with warm desserts like brownies, chocolate lava cakes, or even a classic apple pie. The freshness of the mint in the ice cream balances richer, denser sweets perfectly, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t just stick to bowls—serve your Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe in waffle cones for extra crunch, or sandwiched between thin chocolate cookies for homemade minty ice cream sandwiches. For a fun twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top and freeze it again briefly for a hard shell coating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe is made, store leftovers in a tightly sealed container to prevent freezer burn and absorption of other odors. Keep it in the coldest part of your freezer for best texture and flavor retention.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully and can be made ahead of time to accommodate your busy schedule. Just ensure the container is sealed airtight. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw slightly at room temperature for a few minutes for perfect scooping.
Reheating
Ice cream isn’t the type of dish you reheat, but if you want a softer texture, simply let the ice cream sit out for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping rather than microwaving or heating it, which can ruin the texture.
FAQs
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract?
While mint extract might seem like a good substitute, it usually has a different flavor profile and can taste more herbal and less sweet. For the true refreshing taste this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe is known for, pure peppermint extract is best.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
Though an ice cream maker produces the creamiest texture, you can still make this recipe by freezing the mixture in a shallow container and stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until fully frozen. The texture will be less smooth but still delicious.
Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
You can experiment with coconut milk or other plant-based creams, but the texture and flavor will change. Using full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream and a plant-based milk alternative can work, though adjustments may be needed to get sweetness and creaminess just right.
How do I get the chocolate chips evenly spread throughout?
Add your chocolate chips during the last five minutes of churning so they get distributed without sinking to the bottom. If you add them too early, they might clump or melt too much into the ice cream base.
Can I adjust the mint flavor strength in this recipe?
Absolutely! The amount of peppermint extract can be adjusted to your taste. Start with 1 1/2 teaspoons as recommended, then if you prefer a stronger mint punch, feel free to add a little more in your next batch.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and exciting about making your own Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe at home. It captures the perfect balance of refreshing peppermint, creamy texture, and pockets of chocolate joy, all customizable to fit your sweet tooth. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones with a classic flavor that never gets old. Happy churning and even happier scooping!
Print
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This homemade Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a creamy, refreshing dessert featuring a perfect balance of cool peppermint flavor and rich chocolate chips. Made with heavy cream, whole milk, and high-quality peppermint extract, this easy-to-make ice cream is churned to perfection for a smooth texture and enhanced by mini chocolate chips that add delightful texture and sweetness. Ideal for summer treats or anytime you crave a classic frozen delight.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3–4 drops green food coloring (optional)
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, peppermint extract, salt, and food coloring (if using) until the sugar is fully dissolved. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled to ensure proper churning.
- Churn the ice cream: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20–25 minutes. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate so they are well distributed without melting.
- Freeze to firm up: Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded, freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula. Freeze the ice cream for at least 2–4 hours, until firm enough to scoop. Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing minty flavor with delightful chocolate bits.
Notes
- Use high-quality peppermint extract—not mint extract—for an authentic mint chocolate chip flavor.
- For softer chocolate bits, melt and drizzle chocolate into the ice cream during churning to create thin flakes (stracciatella-style).
