Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun blazes and the days grow warmer, there’s nothing quite like the sensation of a creamy treat melting on your tongue, right? This Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is a delightful way to cool off, featuring a luscious custard base infused with real peppermint extract, and, of course, generously loaded with crushed Oreo cookies. Not only does this homemade ice cream provide a refreshing mint-chocolate flavor, but it’s also a fantastic crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Plus, with its rich, creamy texture, every scoop feels like a little indulgence that you can easily whip up at home. Ready to savor the sweet taste of summer with a twist? Let’s dive into the details! Why Make Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream? Indulgent Flavor: This recipe brings a deliciously rich combination of peppermint and chocolate that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Homemade Goodness: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, making ice cream at home is both rewarding and fun! Perfect for Summer: The refreshing mint flavor makes it an ideal treat for hot days, keeping you cool and satisfied. Versatile Options: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Swap out Oreos for your favorite sandwich cookies or even add chocolate chips for an extra treat. Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant green hue and chunky Oreo bits, this ice cream is sure to catch eyes—and taste buds! Elevate it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or serve it alongside a slice of Blueberry Cream Cheese for a delightful dessert spread. Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Ingredients For the Custard Base • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture. Substitution: Can be replaced with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. • Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and balances the heaviness of the cream. Substitution: 2% milk can be used but will yield a less rich flavor. • Egg Yolks – Provide a custard-like richness and help to thicken the base. Important: Must be tempered to avoid scrambling. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the ice cream and helps in achieving a soft texture. Substitution: Can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile. No substitutions recommended for optimal flavor. • Peppermint Extract – Gives the characteristic mint flavor. Note: Adjust the amount to taste as extract strength can vary. • Salt – Balances sweetness. No substitutions recommended. • Natural Green Food Coloring (optional) – Adds visual appeal. Note: Skip for a more natural look if desired. For the Crunch • Crushed Oreo Cookies – Provides crunch and chocolate flavor. Suggestion: Chill the crushed Oreos before mixing to help maintain texture in the ice cream. Now that you have everything you need for your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream, let’s get churning! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Step 1: Heat the Dairy In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 165°F, watching for small bubbles to form around the edges. This step creates the rich base for your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks While the cream mixture is heating, whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until they are smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until the mixture turns thick and pale yellow, about 2-3 minutes. This process builds a custard-like richness that will beautifully complement the creamy base. Step 3: Temper the Eggs Slowly drizzle a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking vigorously. This technique, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling. Continue to whisk until combined, and then slowly add the egg mixture back to the saucepan with the remaining cream. Step 4: Cook the Custard Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula. Continue until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon and reaches 165°F. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can affect the creaminess of your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Step 5: Cool Down the Custard Once thickened, strain the custard through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl set in an ice bath. This quick cooling method helps to stop the cooking process. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the custard for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance flavors and achieve the perfect texture. Step 6: Add Flavorings After chilling, stir in vanilla extract, peppermint extract, salt, and optional green food coloring to the custard. Start with a small amount of peppermint extract and adjust to taste, ensuring the mint flavor shines through in your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Step 7: Churn the Ice Cream Pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20 minutes. As it churns, watch for it to become thick and creamy. This is when the magic happens, transitioning your mixture into delightful Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Step 8: Incorporate the Oreos Thirty seconds before the ice cream is done churning, gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookies. This will distribute the crunchy pieces throughout the creamy base, adding an irresistible texture to your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Step 9: Freeze for Firmness Transfer the freshly churned ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top and seal tightly. Freeze for at least 2 hours until it is solid enough to scoop, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes! Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful ice cream recipe with these fun twists! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based treat. Different Cookies: Swap out Oreos for other favorite sandwich cookies, like mint or peanut butter versions, to explore new flavors. Chunky Additions: Mix in chocolate chips or brownie bits during the last few minutes of churning for a delightful chocolate eruption. Minty Variations: Try using spearmint extract or a combination of mint and almond extracts for a unique minty twist. Nutty Delight: Incorporate crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, before the final freezing phase for an appealing texture and nutty flavor. Boozy Option: Add a tablespoon of peppermint schnapps to the custard for an adult-friendly version with a refreshing kick. Peppermint Swirls: To create a beautiful marbled effect, swirl in some store-bought mint chocolate fudge sauce just before freezing. Serving Options: Serve alongside a slice of Pumpkin Cream Cheese for a delightful fall-inspired dessert experience. How to Store and Freeze Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Airtight Container: Store your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture for up to 2 weeks. Plastic Wrap: For longer storage, lay a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This helps minimize freezer burn and allows you to enjoy it for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before scooping. Keep Chilled: If transferred to a cooler or during summer picnics, store it on ice to keep it firm and intact until dessert time! Make Ahead Options These Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time while still indulging in a delicious treat! You can prepare the custard base up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it chills overnight. Just follow the steps up to cooling the custard, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade ice cream, simply stir in the flavorings and churn as usual. For optimal freshness, store your finished ice cream in an airtight container and consume within 2 weeks to maintain its creamy texture. This way, you can have a delightful summer dessert ready anytime with minimal effort! What to Serve with Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream? As you indulge in this delightful homemade treat, let’s explore some delicious pairings that elevate your ice cream experience. Warm Chocolate Brownies: A rich chocolatey counterpart, warm brownies add a comforting indulgence alongside the cool ice cream, creating a perfect melting harmony. Fresh Mint Leaves: Enhance the minty flavor and bring a touch of freshness by garnishing each scoop with vibrant mint leaves—perfect for a visually appealing touch! Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, enhancing each bite of the creamy ice cream while satisfying any chocolate cravings. Oreo Cookie Crumbles: Sprinkle additional crushed Oreos on top for a crunchy contrast that keeps the flavor consistent and indulgent; this simple touch elevates the whole experience! Fruity Sorbet: For a palate cleanse, serving a scoop of tart raspberry or lemon sorbet alongside provides a refreshing contrast to the rich mint cookies and cream flavor. Cold Brew Coffee: A chilled coffee beverage pairs beautifully with the mint and chocolate, creating a delicious balance between creamy sweetness and caffeinated warmth. Strawberry Shortcake: A slice of airy strawberry shortcake introduces a fruity whimsy that complements the rich ice cream while adding a celebratory flair to your dessert spread. Expert Tips for Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Strain the Custard: Use a fine mesh strainer after cooking to achieve a smooth, velvety texture in your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream, eliminating any unwanted lumps. Tempering Technique: Ensure you temper the eggs slowly; adding too much hot cream too quickly can scramble them, ruining the richness. Adjusting Peppermint Flavor: Start with just ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract and increase gradually, letting your taste buds guide you to the perfect mint balance. Prevent Ice Crystals: Consider adding a tablespoon of vodka to the custard before chilling, which helps keep your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream softer and creamier, preventing ice crystals. No Ice Cream Maker? If you don’t have one, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir it vigorously with a fork until it’s creamy, but this method may not yield the same richness. Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Recipe FAQs What kind of milk works best for this ice cream? For the best creamy texture, I recommend using whole milk, as it balances the richness of the heavy cream. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with 2% milk, but be aware that it may not yield the same richness. How should I store Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream? Store your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For optimal texture, aim to enjoy it within 2 weeks, but it can last up to 3 months if you cover the surface with plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Can I freeze this ice cream if I don’t have an ice cream maker? Absolutely! Pour the custard into a shallow dish and freeze it. Remember to stir vigorously with a fork every 30 minutes for about 2–3 hours until it’s creamy. This method may not be as rich, but it’s a great alternative! How do I ensure a smooth custard for my ice cream? To achieve that velvety texture, be sure to strain your custard through a fine mesh strainer after cooking. This step removes any lumps, ensuring that your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream has that perfect creaminess we all love. Can pets enjoy this ice cream too? While the ingredients are generally safe, it’s best to skip giving your Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream to pets, especially because of the sugar and dairy content. Stick to pet-friendly frozen treats available in stores for their indulgent cool-down! How do I adjust the peppermint flavor if it’s too strong or weak? Start by adding just ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste as you go. If it needs more minty goodness, stir in an additional ¼ teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired flavor. Remember, it’s easier to add than to take away! Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream for a Refreshing Summer Treat This refreshing Mint Cookies and Cream Ice Cream combines creamy custard, real peppermint extract, and crunchy Oreo cookies for a perfect summer treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: DessertCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Custard Base2 cups Heavy Cream Substitution: Can be replaced with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.1 cup Whole Milk Substitution: 2% milk can be used but will yield a less rich flavor.6 large Egg Yolks Important: Must be tempered to avoid scrambling.3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Substitution: Can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract No substitutions recommended for optimal flavor.1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract Note: Adjust the amount to taste as extract strength can vary.1/4 teaspoon Salt No substitutions recommended.Natural Green Food Coloring Optional, skip for a more natural look if desired.For the Crunch1 cup Crushed Oreo Cookies Suggestion: Chill the crushed Oreos before mixing to help maintain texture in the ice cream. Equipment medium saucepanWhiskfine-mesh strainerIce Cream MakerLarge bowlspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 165°F, watching for small bubbles to form around the edges.While the cream mixture is heating, whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until they are smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until the mixture turns thick and pale yellow, about 2-3 minutes.Slowly drizzle a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking vigorously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Continue to whisk until combined, and then slowly add back to the saucepan with the remaining cream.Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon and reaches 165°F.Once thickened, strain the custard through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl set in an ice bath. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.After chilling, stir in vanilla extract, peppermint extract, salt, and optional green food coloring to the custard, adjusting peppermint to taste.Pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20 minutes.Thirty seconds before the ice cream is done churning, gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookies.Transfer the freshly churned ice cream into an airtight container, smooth the top, seal tightly, and freeze for at least 2 hours until solid enough to scoop. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 700IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor optimal texture, strain the custard after cooking and consider tempering the eggs slowly to avoid scrambling. Adjust peppermint flavor to taste and prevent ice crystals by adding vodka if desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
