This easy homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream is a refreshing treat! Made with simple ingredients, it’s creamy, minty, and full of chocolatey goodness. You’ll love that it doesn’t need an ice cream maker!
Making your own ice cream is super fun! I often find myself sneaking spoons of it straight from the freezer. Just mix, chill, and enjoy—so easy and delicious! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives your ice cream its rich and creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be as creamy. I find that the heavy whipping cream really makes a difference in consistency.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is what adds sweetness and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free version, look for coconut condensed milk or cashew cream as substitutes. I love using the original for its sweetness and flavor.
Peppermint Extract: For that minty flavor! If you prefer spearmint, go ahead. There’s nothing better than adjusting the amount based on how minty you like it. I usually add a bit extra for that refreshing kick!
Green Food Coloring: This is optional, but it makes the ice cream visually appealing! If you prefer a natural look, just skip it. I often skip it and enjoy the natural color instead.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Perfect for that chocolatey crunch! You can substitute with dark chocolate chunks or even dairy-free chocolate chips for a different flavor. I love the crispy mini chips as they blend in well with the smooth ice cream.
How Do You Get Soft, Fluffy Ice Cream?
The key to fluffy ice cream is in how you whip your cream. Here’s a simple guide to get it just right:
- Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold; this helps the cream whip better.
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes at medium-high speed.
- When folding in the sweetened condensed milk, use gentle, sweeping motions to keep the air in the whipped cream.
Folding gently is crucial! It keeps your ice cream light and airy so that every scoop is delightful. Enjoy making your treat!
How to Make Easy Homemade Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp green food coloring (optional, for the minty color)
Add-ins:
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- Waffle cones or bowls for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream can be prepared in about 15 minutes, plus freezing time of 4-6 hours. So, you’ll spend a little bit of time mixing up the ingredients and then just let it chill until it’s perfectly scoopable!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whipping Cream:
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You know it’s ready when you can lift the beaters and the peaks hold their shape!
2. Mixing the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring (if you’re using it). Stir well until everything is blended together nicely. This mixture adds sweetness and that refreshing minty flavor!
3. Folding the Mixture:
Take the sweetened condensed milk mixture and gently fold it into the whipped cream using a spatula. Be sure to fold carefully to keep the whipped cream airy and fluffy. This is what gives your ice cream that light texture!
4. Adding the Chocolate Chips:
Once combined, fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly. This gives that delicious chocolatey crunch throughout your ice cream. It’s hard to resist sneaking a taste at this point!
5. Freezing the Ice Cream:
Transfer the well-mixed ice cream base into a freezer-safe container. Spread it out evenly, then cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop.
6. Serving Time:
When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream, simply scoop it into bowls or waffle cones. Feel free to add extra chocolate chips or a sprig of mint on top to make it even more delightful!
7. Dig In!
Now you can enjoy your refreshing, creamy mint chocolate chip ice cream. Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve a tasty treat!
This recipe is super simple and does not require an ice cream maker, making it a fantastic way to indulge in a homemade dessert! Enjoy! 🍦
FAQ
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Instead of Heavy Whipping Cream?
While you can use low-fat cream or half-and-half, the texture and creaminess of the ice cream may be affected. For the best results, I recommend sticking to heavy whipping cream for that rich and creamy texture!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut cream and use coconut condensed milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. This will keep the creaminess while making it dairy-free. Just be aware that it may have a coconut flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Peppermint Extract?
No worries! If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use spearmint extract or even vanilla extract for a different flavor. Just adjust the amount to your taste preference!
How Long Does the Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
This homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream can last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first week for optimal flavor and texture!
