Delicious Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe

If you’re looking for a cool and festive treat, this Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe is the perfect choice! This homemade delight combines the creamy richness of ice cream with the bold, refreshing taste of peppermint, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re enjoying it during the holiday season or on a warm summer day, its sweet and minty flavor is both invigorating and satisfying.

Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients for Peppermint Ice Cream

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients needed to make Peppermint Ice Cream at home:

1. Heavy Cream (2 cups)

• Provides richness and a smooth, creamy texture to the ice cream.
• Essential for achieving a soft and scoopable consistency.

2. Whole Milk (1 cup)

• Helps balance the fat content, ensuring a light yet creamy texture.
• Avoid using low-fat milk, as it may result in an icy consistency.

3. Granulated Sugar (¾ cup)

• Sweetens the ice cream base while helping to create a soft texture.
• Dissolves easily when heated with milk and cream.

4. Egg Yolks (4 large, optional for custard-based ice cream)

• Used for making a rich, custard-style ice cream.
• Adds a velvety texture and enhances flavor.
• If making an egg-free version, simply omit them.

5. Peppermint Extract (1 teaspoon)

• The key ingredient that gives the ice cream its signature minty flavor.
• Be careful not to use too much, as peppermint extract is very strong.

6. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)

• Balances the peppermint flavor and enhances the overall taste.

7. Crushed Peppermint Candies or Candy Canes (½ cup)

• Adds crunch and extra bursts of peppermint flavor.
• Can be mixed in at the end of churning for texture and color.

8. Red Food Coloring (Optional, a few drops)

• Gives the ice cream a festive pink or red swirl.
• Can be omitted for a natural white ice cream base.

Instructions for Making Peppermint Ice Cream

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Peppermint Ice Cream from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. Heat the Dairy Mixture

   • In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar over medium heat.
   • Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let the mixture boil.

2. For a Custard-Based Ice Cream (Optional – Using Eggs)

   • In a separate bowl, whisk 4 large egg yolks until they turn pale yellow.
   • Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly. This step “tempers” the eggs, preventing them from scrambling.
   • Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
   • Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (170-175°F or 77-80°C). Do not let it boil.

Step 2: Add Flavoring

3. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. If you want a festive touch, add a few drops of red food coloring and stir until well combined.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

6. Pour the mixture into a large bowl or airtight container.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or until fully chilled. For best results, chill overnight.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

8. Once the mixture is completely cold, pour it into an ice cream maker.
9. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Step 5: Add Crushed Peppermint Candies

10. In the last 5 minutes of churning, sprinkle in ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. This adds a crunchy texture and extra peppermint flavor.

Step 6: Freeze and Set

11. Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container.
12. Smooth the top and cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid.
13. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

14. Scoop the Peppermint Ice Cream into bowls or cones.
15. Optionally, garnish with extra crushed candy canes or chocolate chips.
16. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, homemade treat!

Tips for Making the Best Peppermint Ice Cream

1. Use High-Quality Dairy

• For the creamiest texture, use heavy cream and whole milk. Avoid low-fat milk, as it can make the ice cream icy.

2. Don’t Overdo the Peppermint Extract

• Peppermint extract is very strong—start with 1 teaspoon and taste before adding more. Too much can make the ice cream taste like toothpaste.

3. Chill the Mixture Before Churning

• Ensure the ice cream base is completely cold before adding it to the ice cream maker. This helps it churn faster and creates a smoother texture.

4. Crush Peppermint Candies Finely

• For a smoother texture, crush the peppermint candies into small pieces. Large chunks may become too hard when frozen.

5. Add Mix-Ins at the Right Time

• Always add crushed peppermint candies in the last few minutes of churning to prevent them from dissolving into the mixture.

6. Use an Airtight Container for Freezing

• Store the ice cream in a freezer-safe, airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming.

7. Let It Soften Before Scooping

• Homemade ice cream can be very firm after freezing. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.

8. Try Fun Variations

• Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips for a peppermint chocolate chip version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Swirls: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel before freezing for a marbled effect.

Conclusion

Making your own Peppermint Ice Cream at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. With its creamy texture, refreshing minty flavor, and delightful crunch from crushed peppermint candies, this homemade treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it during the holiday season or as a cool summer dessert, its balance of sweetness and freshness makes it a crowd favorite. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can customize it to your taste, adding chocolate chips, swirls, or even making a dairy-free version.

Homemade ice cream not only tastes better than store-bought, but it also allows you to control the ingredients for a richer, creamier result. Serve it in cones, alongside brownies, or as part of an ice cream sundae for a fun and festive dessert. Once you try making Peppermint Ice Cream from scratch, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions again. Enjoy your refreshing, homemade creation!