Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cool peppermint and rich chocolate, especially when swirled into creamy ice cream. This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is the ultimate festive treat — perfect for those cozy winter nights or any time you crave a refreshing dessert with a hint of holiday cheer. Made with simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, and peppermint extract, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home without compromising on that luscious, creamy texture you expect from your favorite ice cream parlor. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream isn’t just delicious — it’s versatile and incredibly satisfying. Here’s why you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again:

• Simple Ingredients: No complicated custards or eggs here — just straightforward, wholesome ingredients.
• Refreshing Flavor: The bright peppermint extract pairs perfectly with the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies for a festive twist.
• Customizable: Add more chocolate chips or peppermint candies to your liking, or swap flavors for seasonal variations.
• Perfect Texture: Creamy, smooth, and studded with chocolate and peppermint crunch, it satisfies every craving.
• Made from Scratch: Enjoy a homemade treat free from preservatives and artificial flavors.

If you love peppermint and chocolate, you might also enjoy the Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies for another delightful dessert.

Shopping List

Before you dive in, gather these ingredients to make sure your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream turns out perfectly:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (store-bought or homemade)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the rich flavor and creamy texture that make this ice cream so irresistible.

Essential Tools for Success

Having the right tools on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you need:

• Ice Cream Maker: Essential for churning and creating that silky texture.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients with ease.
• Whisk: To fully dissolve sugar and incorporate extracts evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results.
• Freezer-Safe Container: For storing the ice cream to freeze solid.
• Spatula: To fold in chocolate chips and peppermint candies gently.

If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry — you can still make this treat with a no-churn method, though the texture will be different.

Method: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and 3/4 cup granulated sugar. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the sugar has completely dissolved. This ensures a smooth, sweet base without any graininess.

Step 2: Add Flavor Extracts

Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of pure peppermint extract. The vanilla adds depth and warmth, balancing the refreshing peppermint for a harmonious flavor profile.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours — or overnight if possible. Chilling the base helps it thicken and improves the final texture when churned.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Churn until the mixture thickens and reaches a soft-serve consistency, usually about 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Peppermint

Once churned, gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. This adds delightful bursts of texture and flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Freeze to Firm Up

Transfer the ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm enough to scoop.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions into bowls or cones. For an extra festive touch, pair it with Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes to create a holiday dessert spread that’s sure to impress.

Fit It to Your Goals

This recipe is flexible and can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences and lifestyle:

• Lower Sugar: Reduce granulated sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and almond milk for whole milk.
• Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like toasted almonds or pecans along with the peppermint candies.
• More Chocolate: Increase chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top before freezing.
• Mini Treats: Use this ice cream as a filling for a Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake to elevate your dessert game.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Sometimes homemade ice cream can be tricky, but these tips will help you dodge common pitfalls:

• Grainy Texture: Ensure sugar is fully dissolved before chilling the base.
• Ice Crystals: Don’t skip chilling the mixture beforehand and avoid opening the freezer container repeatedly.
• Weak Peppermint Flavor: Use pure peppermint extract rather than imitation to get a strong, fresh taste.
• Too Hard to Scoop: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Proper storage will keep your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream tasting fresh and creamy:

• Store in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn.
• Place a sheet of parchment or wax paper directly on the surface before sealing to minimize air exposure.
• Consume within 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture.
• If the ice cream becomes too hard, thaw in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! You can create a no-churn version by whipping the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, folding in sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract, then mixing in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies before freezing. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I crush peppermint candies without making a mess?

Place the candies in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently crush them into small pieces. This method keeps your kitchen clean and gives you control over the size of the peppermint bits.

Can I use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, white chocolate chips are a wonderful alternative and pair beautifully with the peppermint flavor for a sweeter, creamier bite.

Is it okay to substitute peppermint extract with fresh peppermint leaves?

Fresh peppermint leaves won’t impart the same intense flavor as peppermint extract. For a subtle hint, you can steep crushed leaves in the milk mixture before chilling, but for that classic Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream taste, pure peppermint extract is best.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies – A quick bake that pairs perfectly with your homemade ice cream.
• Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes – These cupcakes bring a cozy coffeehouse vibe to your dessert table.
• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake – Use your ice cream as a dreamy topping for a decadent finish.

Wrap-Up

This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a delightful blend of creamy sweetness, refreshing peppermint, and chocolate crunch that will satisfy your dessert cravings any time of year. Its straightforward ingredients and simple method make it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re serving it solo or alongside other festive treats, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Keep it in your freezer for whenever you need a little indulgence — it’s always ready to brighten your day with every scoop.

Whip up this ice cream to add a touch of joy to your dessert rotation, and don’t forget to explore other enticing recipes like Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes and Chocolate Peppermint Bark Brownies for a full-flavored celebration.

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