Imagine a dessert that transforms ordinary ingredients into a symphony of refreshing mint and decadent chocolate in every creamy spoonful. This isn't just another ice cream recipe - it's a gourmet experience that will transport your taste buds to a world of pure, cool bliss. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, our Fresh Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream promises to be the most extraordinary homemade treat you'll make this season.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 quart
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Gently wash fresh mint leaves and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and fresh mint leaves. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar completely.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but do not allow it to boil. Remove from heat and let the mint leaves steep in the hot cream mixture for 30 minutes to infuse maximum flavor.
- After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on the mint leaves to extract all their essential oils and flavor. Discard the used mint leaves.
- Add vanilla extract to the strained cream mixture and whisk to combine. Cover and refrigerate the base for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.
- Pour the chilled mint cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add chocolate chips to distribute evenly throughout the ice cream.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top with a spatula, and cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Tips
- Use fresh mint leaves for the most vibrant, authentic flavor - avoid dried or extract if possible.
- Ensure your cream mixture is completely chilled before churning to achieve the smoothest texture.
- Pat mint leaves completely dry to prevent excess water from diluting your ice cream base.
- When adding chocolate chips, add them gradually during the last few minutes of churning to prevent clumping.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- For an extra smooth consistency, consider straining the cream mixture through cheesecloth after steeping.
- Allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for the perfect scoopable texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 95mg
