Nothing beats the refreshing taste of green mint chocolate chip ice cream on a hot summer day! This homemade green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe brings together the perfect balance of cool mint and rich chocolate in every single bite. Whether you're craving a nostalgic treat or want to impress guests with your culinary skills, this green mint chocolate chip ice cream delivers that classic parlor-style flavor right from your own kitchen.
Making your own green mint chocolate chip ice cream means you control every ingredient, from the freshness of the mint to the quality of chocolate chunks. This recipe creates a smooth, creamy texture that rivals any store-bought version, and the beautiful green color makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Why This Green Mint Ice Cream Recipe Stands Out
This green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe has been perfected through countless batches to achieve the ideal mint-to-chocolate ratio. Unlike many recipes that rely heavily on artificial flavoring, this version combines fresh mint leaves with peppermint extract for a complex, refreshing flavor that's not overpowering. The secret lies in steeping real mint leaves in warm cream, which infuses the base with natural mint oils while maintaining that signature green mint chocolate chip ice cream color.
What sets this green mint chocolate chip ice cream apart is the technique of tempering the chocolate chunks. By adding them at just the right temperature, they maintain their shape and crunch without becoming too hard when frozen. The result is a perfectly balanced dessert where every spoonful contains the ideal amount of mint flavor and chocolate pieces, creating that beloved green mint chocolate chip ice cream experience we all remember from childhood.
Jump to:
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- Heavy cream
- Whole milk
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Fresh mint leaves
- Peppermint extract
- Vanilla extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
- Salt
Mix-ins
- Mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Chocolate chunks
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare the Mint-Infused Base
- Combine heavy cream, milk, and fresh mint leaves in a medium saucepan
- Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edges (don't boil)
- Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes to extract maximum mint flavor
- Strain out mint leaves using a fine-mesh strainer, pressing leaves to extract oils
Create the Custard Foundation
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick (about 3 minutes)
- Slowly pour ½ cup of the warm mint cream into egg mixture, whisking constantly
- Continue adding cream gradually to prevent curdling
- Return entire mixture to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly
Perfect the Custard Consistency
- Cook custard until it coats the back of a spoon (170-175°F on thermometer)
- Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract, vanilla, salt, and food coloring
- Strain custard through fine-mesh strainer to ensure smoothness
- Cover with plastic wrap directly touching surface and refrigerate for at least 4 hours
Churn and Add Chocolate
- Pour chilled custard into ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions
- During last 2 minutes of churning, gradually add chocolate chips and chunks
- Transfer to airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving
- Let soften for 5 minutes at room temperature before scooping for best texture
- Step 1: Prepare the Mint-Infused Base
Steep fresh mint leaves in warm cream for natural flavor infusion.
- Step 2: Create the Custard Foundation
Whisk eggs and sugar until pale before tempering with warm cream.
- Step 3: Perfect the Custard Consistency
Cook custard until it coats the back of a spoon for ideal texture.
- Step 4: Churn and Add Chocolate
Churn custard and add chocolate for texture in the final minutes.
Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream requires attention to detail and proper technique. Here are professional tips to ensure your green mint chocolate chip ice cream turns out perfectly every time.
Temperature Control Tips:
- Always use a candy thermometer when making custard base
- Don't let custard exceed 175°F or eggs will scramble
- Chill custard completely before churning for best texture
- Keep chocolate chips in freezer until adding to prevent melting
Mint Flavor Optimization:
- Choose fresh, bright green mint leaves without dark spots
- Bruise mint leaves gently before steeping to release more oils
- Taste custard before churning and adjust peppermint extract as needed
- Balance is key; mint should be refreshing, not medicinal
Texture Enhancement Techniques:
- Strain custard twice for ultra-smooth consistency
- Press plastic wrap directly onto custard surface to prevent skin formation
- Add chocolate during final minutes of churning for even distribution
- Use mix of mini chips and larger chunks for varied texture
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
This versatile green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Each variation maintains the essence of the original while offering unique twists.
Dietary Adaptations: Transform this recipe for various dietary requirements without sacrificing flavor. For vegan mint chocolate chip ice cream, substitute coconut cream and cashew milk, using cornstarch as a thickener instead of eggs. Keto-friendly versions work well with heavy cream, sugar-free sweeteners, and sugar-free chocolate chips.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut cream, almond milk, and cornstarch thickener
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener
- Gluten-Free: Ensure chocolate chips are certified gluten-free
- Dairy-Free: Coconut or oat milk base with coconut cream
Creative Flavor Variations:
- Mint Oreo: Add crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
- Chocolate Mint Swirl: Marble in homemade chocolate sauce
- Fresh Herb Blend: Combine mint with basil for complexity
- Alcohol-Infused: Add 2 tablespoons crème de menthe for adults
Equipment Recommendations
Creating professional-quality green mint chocolate chip ice cream requires the right tools. While you can make ice cream without specialized equipment, these items will significantly improve your results.
Essential Equipment: An ice cream maker is crucial for achieving proper texture and incorporating air into your green mint chocolate chip ice cream. Choose between electric models with freezer bowls or compressor units for convenience.
- Ice Cream Maker: 2-quart capacity with removable freezer bowl
- Candy Thermometer: Digital instant-read for custard accuracy
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: Double-strain for silky smooth texture
- Heavy-Bottom Saucepan: Even heat distribution prevents scorching
- Airtight Freezer Containers: Prevents ice crystal formation
Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
- Use large zip-lock bags with ice and salt for no-machine method
- Mason jars work well for small batches when shaken frequently
- Regular kitchen thermometer can substitute candy thermometer
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Proper storage ensures your homemade green mint chocolate chip ice cream maintains its creamy texture and fresh flavor for maximum enjoyment. Follow these professional storage techniques for best results.
Optimal Storage Conditions: Store your green mint chocolate chip ice cream in the coldest part of your freezer, typically the back, away from the door. Use shallow, wide containers rather than tall narrow ones for easier scooping and faster freezing.
Freezer Storage Guidelines
- Fresh Storage: 2-3 weeks in airtight container
- Container Prep: Press parchment paper directly onto surface
- Temperature: Maintain consistent 0°F for best texture
- Location: Store in back of freezer, not door
Make-Ahead Strategies
- Custard Base: Prepare up to 2 days ahead, store refrigerated
- Portion Control: Freeze individual servings in small containers
- Flavor Development: Tastes best after 24 hours of freezer time
- Serving Prep: Move to refrigerator 10 minutes before serving
Preventing Ice Crystals: Cover surface with plastic wrap before sealing container to minimize air exposure. For longer storage, wrap container in aluminum foil for additional protection against freezer burn.
Secret Minty Magic Tips
The key to extraordinary green mint chocolate chip ice cream lies in two crucial techniques that separate homemade from store-bought quality. These professional secrets ensure your ice cream achieves that perfect balance of refreshing mint and creamy richness.
First, the steeping method makes all the difference in flavor depth. After removing mint leaves from the warm cream, don't discard them immediately. Instead, wrap the used leaves in cheesecloth and squeeze gently over the mixture to extract every drop of mint oil. This extra step intensifies the natural mint flavor in your green mint chocolate chip ice cream without relying heavily on artificial extracts.
Second, temperature shock your chocolate additions for superior texture. Place chocolate chips in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before adding to the churning ice cream. This prevents them from melting completely while creating small chocolate shards that distribute evenly throughout each scoop of green mint chocolate chip ice cream, giving you that perfect chocolate-to-mint ratio in every bite.
FAQ
What makes mint chocolate chip ice cream green?
Traditional green mint chocolate chip ice cream gets its color from green food coloring added during the custard-making process. While mint leaves are naturally green, they don't provide enough color intensity when strained out, so food coloring creates that signature vibrant green appearance.
What kind of mint is used in mint chocolate chip ice cream?
Most green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipes use fresh spearmint or peppermint leaves combined with peppermint extract. Peppermint provides a stronger, more cooling sensation, while spearmint offers a milder, sweeter mint flavor that many people prefer.
How to make mint choc chip ice cream?
Making green mint chocolate chip ice cream involves creating a custard base with mint-infused cream, churning it in an ice cream maker, and adding chocolate chips during the final minutes of churning for even distribution throughout the frozen dessert.
Is mint or peppermint extract better for mint ice cream?
Peppermint extract works better for green mint chocolate chip ice cream because it provides a more intense, cooling mint flavor that stands up to the rich cream and chocolate. Mint extract tends to be milder and can get lost in the other flavors.
Sweet Endings and More Frozen Delights
This homemade green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe proves that creating restaurant-quality desserts at home is both achievable and rewarding. The combination of fresh mint leaves, quality chocolate, and proper custard technique results in a frozen treat that surpasses any store-bought version. Every spoonful delivers that perfect balance of cooling mint and rich chocolate that makes green mint chocolate chip ice cream such a beloved classic.
Once you've mastered this green mint chocolate chip ice cream, consider exploring other homemade frozen desserts that will expand your repertoire. Try our Chocolate Chip Ice Cream recipe for a classic vanilla base studded with chocolate pieces, or venture into the surprising world of Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe for a protein-packed treat that's both creamy and nutritious. Both recipes use similar techniques to this green mint chocolate chip ice cream, making them perfect next steps in your ice cream-making journey.
Lauren Bennett 🍃 “Here’s to scoops of happiness in every bite!”
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this homemade green mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe:
Green Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Ice cream maker
- 1 Heavy-bottom saucepan
- 1 Fine-mesh strainer
- 2 Mixing bowls
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Candy thermometer
- 1 Airtight freezer container
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 6 large egg yolks
- 0.25 cup fresh mint leaves packed
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 drops green food coloring optional
- 0.125 teaspoon salt
Mix-ins
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 0.5 cup chocolate chunks for extra texture
Instructions
- Warm cream and milk in a saucepan, then add fresh mint leaves. Steep for 15 minutes, then strain and discard leaves.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick.
- Gradually temper egg mixture by slowly adding warm cream, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it coats the back of a spoon (170–175°F).
- Remove from heat, stir in peppermint extract, vanilla extract, optional food coloring, and salt. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
- Churn chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Add chocolate chips and chunks during the last few minutes.
- Transfer to an airtight container and freeze until firm before serving.
Notes
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Leave a Reply