How to Make the Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
American · Easy · 250 min · 8 servings
This mint chocolate chip ice cream is a classic kid friendly frozen treat with a cool refreshing mint flavor and satisfying crunchy chocolate chip pieces throughout every scoop. Kids cannot get enough of the bright green color and the perfect balance of mint and chocolate that makes this flavor a timeless favorite.
Why this recipe works
This Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 250 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 340 calories with 3g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14oz
- 1.5 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 3 drops green food coloring optional
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Add the cold heavy whipping cream to a large chilled bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 4 minutes. The cream should be firm and hold its shape when the beaters are lifted.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a separate bowl stir together the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring if using until fully combined. Taste and adjust the mint level to your liking, adding a little more extract a few drops at a time.
Step 3: Combine and Add Chips
Gently fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula with slow sweeping motions until just combined and no white streaks remain. Fold in three quarters of the mini chocolate chips reserving the rest for the top.
Step 4: Freeze and Serve
Pour into a freezer safe loaf pan or container. Scatter the remaining chocolate chips over the top, press plastic wrap onto the surface, and freeze for at least 4 hours until solid. Scoop and serve in cones or bowls.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- peppermint extract → fresh mint steeped in warm cream then cooled for a more natural mint flavor
- mini chocolate chips → chopped dark chocolate chunks for a more intense chocolate experience
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using too much peppermint extract which makes the ice cream taste medicinal rather than refreshing
- Not pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface causing ice crystals to form on top
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 340 calories, 3g protein, 30g carbs, 24g fat, 1g fiber.
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