There’s something undeniably joyful about making your own ice cream, especially when it’s as refreshing as peppermint ice cream. Picture this: it’s a cozy afternoon, and a delightful aroma of crushed candy canes dances cheerfully around your kitchen. As the dark chocolate melds with the creamy base, it’s like a winter wonderland in every bite, even if the sun is shining outside.
This recipe came about during a holiday gathering when I decided that store-bought ice cream just wouldn’t cut it. I wanted something special, a crowd-pleaser that would evoke memories of festive celebrations. As I whipped up this simple yet indulgent treat, I realized how easy it is to elevate homemade desserts right in your own freezer.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests during a summer BBQ or simply indulge yourself after a long day, this peppermint ice cream combines the comforting notes of vanilla and rich chocolate, with a minty finish that’s utterly refreshing. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create something magical together!
Why is Peppermint Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy base, refreshing peppermint, and rich dark chocolate makes every scoop a burst of joy.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro! Just a few simple steps, and you can create a gourmet treat at home.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings, summer BBQs, or even just a cozy night in.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this ice cream at your next get-together, and watch it disappear in minutes!
Timeless Appeal: With hints of nostalgia, this recipe brings back sweet memories while crafting new ones.
So grab your ingredients and enjoy a homemade experience that’s far better than any store-bought option. Want more tips on delightful treats? Check out our classic vanilla ice cream recipe!
Peppermint Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Base
- Whole Milk – 1 cup (240 ml), warmed to 100℉/37℃; this helps dissolve the sugar for a smooth texture.
- Heavy Cream – 2 cups (475 ml); ensures that your peppermint ice cream is rich and creamy.
- Granulated Sugar – ¾ cup (150 g); sweetness is key, so adjust according to your taste!
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; adds warmth and depth to the peppermint flavor.
- Peppermint Extract – 2 teaspoons; this is the star of your peppermint ice cream!
- Salt – ⅛ teaspoon; it balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Mix-Ins
- Crushed Candy Canes – ¼ cup (80 g); about 10 mini canes for a festive crunch and delightful minty zing.
- Dark Chocolate – 1.75 ounces, chopped; it brings richness and contrasts beautifully with the peppermint.
Once you have these ingredients for your peppermint ice cream, you’ll be ready to create a delightful treat that brings joy to every spoonful!
How to Make Peppermint Ice Cream
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Warm the milk slightly, to 100℉/37℃ using either the microwave or the stovetop. Whisk in the sugar until it’s dissolved completely to create a smooth base.
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Mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt. Then pour in the heavy cream, whisking until everything is well combined and luscious.
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Chill the ice cream mixture in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for enhancing the texture before pouring it into your still-frozen ice cream bowl.
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Churn the ice cream for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns smooth and creamy, resembling soft-serve perfection.
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Scoop the ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Add in the chopped dark chocolate and crushed candy canes, then gently fold those delightful pieces into your ice cream.
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Seal the container and place it in the freezer to allow the peppermint ice cream to continue freezing for at least 6 hours. This ensures a perfectly creamy and scoopable treat.
Optional: Top with extra crushed candy canes for a festive flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Peppermint Ice Cream
Room Temperature: Keep your peppermint ice cream container sealed and out of direct sunlight. It can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 15 minutes when serving.
Fridge: If opened, peppermint ice cream can be kept in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will soften it for scooping, but make sure to return it to the freezer promptly.
Freezer: To maintain the best quality, store your peppermint ice cream in the freezer for up to 2 months. Use an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: If your ice cream hardens too much, leave it out for about 5-10 minutes to soften before serving and enjoying that creamy goodness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Ice Cream
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Milk Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is warmed to 100℉/37℃. This helps dissolve the sugar completely, creating a smooth base and preventing graininess.
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Chill Correctly: Don’t skip chilling the mixture for 30 minutes. This step improves the texture and ensures your peppermint ice cream turns out creamy and delightful.
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Churn Wisely: Keep an eye on the churning process. If you over-churn, the texture can become grainy. Stop when it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
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Fold Gently: When incorporates the chopped chocolate and crushed candy canes, fold them gently into the ice cream to maintain the creamy texture while adding festive crunch.
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Freezing Time: Allow at least 6 hours in the freezer post-churning for optimal firmness. This will help you achieve that perfect scoop every time!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful peppermint ice cream treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ice cream base (milk, sugar, cream, and extracts) up to 24 hours ahead of time by whisking all the ingredients together and storing them in the refrigerator. Just remember to chill the mixture in the freezer for 30 minutes before churning to achieve that creamy texture. The mix-ins, such as chopped dark chocolate and crushed candy canes, can also be prepped and stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply churn the mixture, fold in the mix-ins, and freeze for at least 6 hours before enjoying this refreshing treat. Your homemade peppermint ice cream will be just as delicious, saving you time for those busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Peppermint Ice Cream?
Creating a delightful dessert experience extends beyond just the minty scoop of ice cream.
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Warm Brownies:
Fudgy brownies offer a rich contrast to the cool peppermint, creating a delightful balance of temperature and flavors. -
Chocolate Sauce:
Drizzle some warm, decadent chocolate sauce over the ice cream for an indulgent treat that enhances both sweetness and richness. -
Fresh Berries:
The tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy ice cream, making each bite more vibrant. -
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Soft, chewy cookies add a delightful crunch and a touch of nostalgia, perfect for dunking into your peppermint ice cream. -
Coffee or Espresso:
A warm cup of coffee acts as the perfect palate cleanser, complementing the ice cream with its robust, rich notes for an elegant finish. -
Mint Chocolate Brownie Sundae:
Layer warm brownies and peppermint ice cream, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a deliciously festive treat. -
Spiked Hot Chocolate:
This boozy twist on classic hot chocolate warms the soul and pairs beautifully with the refreshing notes of peppermint. -
Coconut Macaroons:
These chewy, toasty bites beautifully meld tropical coconut with the cool peppermint flavor, creating a tropical winter moment. -
Ginger Snaps:
The spiciness of ginger snaps adds a zingy flavor that works harmoniously with the sweetness of peppermint ice cream, creating a sweet-and-spicy bite.
Peppermint Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists on your peppermint ice cream! Each offers a unique flair that will make your taste buds dance.
- Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free delight.
- Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Melt extra dark chocolate and swirl it through before freezing for a decadent twist.
- Crushed Oreos: Add crushed Oreo cookies to the mix for a fun texture and a layer of cookies-and-cream flavor.
- Minty Matcha: Replace peppermint extract with matcha powder for a refreshing green tea twist—perfect for matcha lovers!
- Berry Bliss: Stir in mashed berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast to the peppermint.
- Spicy Peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the mix for an extra kick of warmth and spice.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or pecans for a heavenly crunch that complements the creaminess.
- Peppermint Mocha: Incorporate a tablespoon of instant coffee granules for a delightful coffee-flavored peppermint experience.
Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for a pure extract with no artificial flavors or additives. This ensures your peppermint ice cream has a vibrant and authentic flavor. If you prefer a milder mint taste, you can start with less than the recommended 2 teaspoons and adjust according to your preference.
What’s the best way to store peppermint ice cream?
I recommend storing your peppermint ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. This will help maintain its creamy texture and prevent ice crystals from forming. If you plan to store it longer, consider placing a piece of wax paper directly on the surface before sealing the container to further protect it.
Can I freeze peppermint ice cream?
Absolutely! After churning, transfer your peppermint ice cream to a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly. Allow it to freeze for at least 6 hours before serving, which enhances its texture and makes it easier to scoop. If you want to store it longer, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer with proper sealing.
What should I do if my ice cream is icy instead of creamy?
Very often, icy ice cream can be caused by using too much water in the ingredients, like milk that hasn’t been warmed enough. To improve texture, make sure to warm the milk to 100℉/37℃ before mixing in your sugar, which helps create a smooth base. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step before churning; this promotes a better overall consistency.
Is peppermint ice cream safe for pets?
While peppermint is safe in small quantities, it’s best to avoid giving any ice cream to pets due to high sugar and dairy content. If they’re curious, consider making a pet-friendly frozen treat using pureed fruits or yogurt specifically made for pets. Always check with your vet for safe alternatives!
How do I soften peppermint ice cream if it’s too hard?
If your peppermint ice cream has hardened more than you’d like, simply leave it out at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow it to soften enough to scoop easily, while still holding that creamy texture you’ve worked so hard to create!
Creamy Peppermint Ice Cream to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the milk slightly, to 100℉/37℃ using either the microwave or the stovetop. Whisk in the sugar until it’s dissolved completely to create a smooth base.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt. Then pour in the heavy cream, whisking until everything is well combined and luscious.
- Chill the ice cream mixture in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Churn the ice cream for about 20 minutes until it turns smooth and creamy, resembling soft-serve perfection.
- Scoop the ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Add the chopped dark chocolate and crushed candy canes, then gently fold them into the ice cream.
- Seal the container and place it in the freezer to allow the peppermint ice cream to freeze for at least 6 hours.