Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a timeless classic that perfectly balances the refreshing coolness of mint with the rich indulgence of dark chocolate. The creamy texture and invigorating minty flavor make it a treat that satisfies both summer cravings and year-round dessert desires.

This homemade version goes far beyond store-bought options — it’s made with real cream, milk, and fresh mint essence (or pure peppermint extract), combined with shards of premium dark chocolate that melt deliciously in your mouth.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream because it’s the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. The cool mint flavor cuts through the richness of the cream, making it feel light and invigorating even though it’s decadently smooth.

The addition of dark chocolate chunks (instead of overly sweet chocolate chips) elevates the flavor to something sophisticated and gourmet.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys the contrast of cool and creamy textures with a hint of bittersweet chocolate.

It’s surprisingly easy to make with or without an ice cream maker and delivers professional-quality results.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling & Freezing Time: 4–6 hours
• Total Time: About 6½ hours
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert / Frozen Treat
• Cuisine: American (Classic Ice Cream Parlor Style)

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 ½ tsp pure peppermint extract (or ½ cup fresh mint leaves for infusion)
• A pinch of salt
• A few drops of natural green food coloring (optional, for the classic look)

For the Chocolate Chunks:

• 3 oz (85g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped or melted and drizzled in
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate ribbons)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat the Cream Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar.
2. Warm over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. If using fresh mint leaves, add them to the warm mixture, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes. Then strain and discard the leaves.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and thick.
2. Slowly pour a little of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
3. Gradually return the mixture to the saucepan.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (170–175°F / 77–80°C).

Step 3: Add Flavor and Chill

1. Remove from heat.
2. Stir in peppermint extract and salt (and food coloring if desired).
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely cold.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

1. Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
2. During the last few minutes, drizzle in the melted dark chocolate while churning — it will harden into fine, delicate chocolate flakes.

(If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the base in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours to break up ice crystals.)

Step 5: Freeze Until Firm

1. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container.
2. Freeze for at least 2–3 hours to set before serving.

How to Serve

Serve the Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream in chilled bowls or waffle cones.
Garnish with:

• Fresh mint sprigs
• Chocolate curls or drizzle
• Crushed dark chocolate wafers or cookie crumbs

It pairs beautifully with chocolate brownies, espresso, or a drizzle of hot fudge sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Always chill the base thoroughly before churning for the creamiest texture.
• Use pure peppermint extract, not spearmint — it gives a truer mint ice cream flavor.
• Add the chocolate only at the end to prevent it from melting into the base.
• If you like chunkier texture, mix in larger bits of chocolate after churning.

Variations

1. Mint Oreo Ice Cream: Add crushed mint Oreos during the final 2 minutes of churning.
2. Vegan Version: Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free dark chocolate; skip the egg yolks.
3. White Chocolate Twist: Replace dark chocolate with white chocolate chunks for a creamier sweetness.
4. Mint Mocha Chip: Add 1 tbsp of espresso powder for a coffee-mint fusion.
5. Boozy Version: Mix in 1 tbsp crème de menthe liqueur before freezing.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• To prevent ice crystals, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the ice cream surface before sealing.
• Allow to soften at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Ice cream maker (or freezer-safe container if making by hand)
• Rubber spatula

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Pour the custard base into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours until smooth and creamy.

Q2: Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?
Yes, but chopping a high-quality chocolate bar gives you better melt-in-mouth texture and flavor.

Q3: Is peppermint extract the same as mint extract?
Not exactly. Peppermint is more intense and cooling, while mint extract can be milder or spearmint-flavored.

Q4: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
You can, but it will make the ice cream less rich and creamy.

Q5: How do I prevent ice cream from becoming icy?
Chill the custard well, churn properly, and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed on top.

Conclusion

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream with Dark Chocolate is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the cool, refreshing taste of mint combined with indulgent chocolate richness. It’s elegant yet playful, nostalgic yet refined. This homemade version outshines store-bought varieties with its creamy texture, deep chocolate flavor, and customizable sweetness. Whether served in a fancy dessert bowl or a crispy cone, it’s a guaranteed way to cool down, indulge, and impress.