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
Scale
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).
