Name: Peppermint Ice Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream (36% fat); 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract; 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

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The moment you take your first scoop of Peppermint Ice Cream, you’re greeted with a refreshing zing that dances on your taste buds like a festive holiday party. Imagine the coolness of peppermint swirling around creamy, dreamy ice cream, creating a blissful escape from the ordinary—just one taste and you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland, no snow boots required.

Now, let’s be honest. There’s nothing quite like the joy of homemade Peppermint Ice Cream to remind you of childhood days spent building snowmen or sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or those “I need a treat now” moments. Trust me, your friends will think you’ve been hiding a secret ice cream shop in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Peppermint Ice Cream

This incredible Peppermint Ice Cream transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Peppermint Ice Cream:

Heavy Cream: The base of our ice cream; go for the good stuff! Look for at least 36% fat content for that rich creaminess.
Whole Milk: Adds smoothness and balances out the heavy cream. Full-fat milk works best for flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens up our ice cream perfectly; granulated sugar is ideal here.
Peppermint Extract: The star of our show! Use pure extract for authentic peppermint flavor; start small—it’s potent!
Crushed Candy Canes: These add delightful texture and an extra minty kick; I recommend breaking them up yourself to control the size.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Peppermint Ice Cream:

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and peppermint extract until fully combined. Ensure the sugar dissolves completely—no one wants crystals in their creamy delight!

Step 2: Chill Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours or until it’s nice and cold. This step is crucial because no one likes lukewarm ice cream!

Step 3: Churn Away

Pour your chilled mixture into an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Churn until it reaches soft-serve consistency (about 20-25 minutes). If you don’t have an ice cream maker… well, it’s time to invest in one or adopt a rigorous arm workout routine!

Step 4: Add Candy Canes

In the last few minutes of churning, sprinkle in your crushed candy canes. This adds that delightful crunch we all crave in our Peppermint Ice Cream.

Step 5: Freeze

Transfer your churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least four hours or until firm. Patience is key here—good things come to those who wait!

Step 6: Serve

Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy! Drizzle some chocolate syrup on top if you’re feeling extra fancy because life is too short for plain ice cream.

Now grab a spoon and dive into this delightful Peppermint Ice Cream!

You Must Know About Peppermint Ice Cream

This showstopping Peppermint Ice Cream delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in sweetened condensed milk mixed with peppermint extract for that refreshing kick. Pour into a container and freeze until solid.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the peppermint extract for other flavors like vanilla or chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add crushed candy canes for extra crunch or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Peppermint Ice Cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to two weeks; just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make serving easier.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Peppermint Ice Cream

This professional-quality Peppermint Ice Cream relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Peppermint Ice Cream, I was convinced my friends would roll their eyes at my over-the-top effort. Instead, they wolfed it down and declared me the “Ice Cream Whisperer,” which is still my favorite title!

FAQs

What is Peppermint Ice Cream?

Peppermint Ice Cream is a delightful frozen treat made with a base of cream, sugar, and peppermint flavoring. This refreshing dessert often features a vibrant green or white color, with pieces of crushed peppermint candy or chocolate mixed in for added texture. It’s especially popular during the holiday season but can be enjoyed year-round. The cool minty flavor makes it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in something sweet and refreshing.

How do I make Peppermint Ice Cream at home?

To make Peppermint Ice Cream at home, start by whisking together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and peppermint extract. Once combined, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For extra crunch, add crushed candy canes during the last few minutes of churning. Finally, transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze it for several hours until firm. Enjoy your homemade treat!

Can I use fresh peppermint leaves in Peppermint Ice Cream?

Yes, you can use fresh peppermint leaves to create a unique flavor profile for your Peppermint Ice Cream. To do this, steep a handful of washed and chopped leaves in your cream mixture before straining it out. This method infuses your ice cream with a natural mint flavor that’s vibrant and aromatic. However, using extracts gives a more consistent taste and is easier for beginners.

What are some variations of Peppermint Ice Cream?

There are numerous variations of Peppermint Ice Cream that you can explore! You might try adding chocolate chips or swirls of hot fudge for richness. Another option is to incorporate different flavors like vanilla or even coffee to enhance the minty notes. For a festive twist, consider mixing in seasonal spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon to create a holiday-themed version that everyone will love.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making delicious Peppermint Ice Cream at home is not only easy but also allows for creative variations tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you stick with the classic minty flavor or experiment with additional ingredients like chocolate or spices, this dessert remains a favorite among many. Enjoy it any time of year for a refreshing treat that brings joy with every scoop!