Chocolate Mint Ice Cream is a refreshing, creamy treat that combines the cool, invigorating flavor of mint with the richness of chocolate. The balance between the smooth, velvety texture of the ice cream and the crunch of chocolate chips or swirls makes this dessert a perfect indulgence on a hot day or for a sweet after-dinner treat. Homemade and naturally infused with fresh mint or mint extract, this ice cream is a step above store-bought versions, offering a fresh, vibrant taste that’s both cooling and indulgent. It’s easy to prepare and will quickly become a favorite for mint chocolate lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more to taste)
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate)
- Optional: green food coloring for the classic mint look
Instructions:
- Heat the cream and milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Remove from heat.
- Whisk the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Cook the custard: Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F or 75°C). Do not let it boil.
- Add flavoring: Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. If you want a traditional mint ice cream color, add a few drops of green food coloring.
- Chill the mixture: Pour the custard through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until completely chilled.
- Churn the ice cream: Once the custard is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the last few minutes of churning, add the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Freeze and serve: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Serve scoops of this refreshing chocolate mint ice cream and enjoy!
This homemade Chocolate Mint Ice Cream is perfectly creamy with the invigorating freshness of mint and delicious bursts of chocolate, making it a delightful treat for any occasion!
