Forget store-bought – this homemade mint Oreo ice cream recipe is unbelievably easy to make and tastes infinitely better! It's the perfect blend of creamy mint, crunchy Oreos, and the delightful chill of homemade ice cream. This recipe is perfect for a hot summer day, a special occasion, or just a spontaneous sweet treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple, yet delicious, dessert! It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals (relatively speaking!).
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract (or more, to taste!)
- 1 cup Oreo cookies, roughly crushed (reserve some for topping)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Chill the Cream
Before you begin, chill your heavy cream in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This ensures that it whips up beautifully and creates a smoother, more luscious ice cream.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for a light and airy ice cream texture. Don't rush this step; properly whipped cream is key to success.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; you just want to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Add the Oreos
Once the mixture is smooth, gently fold in the crushed Oreos. Again, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a less airy texture. Leave some crushed Oreos aside for topping later.
Step 5: Freeze
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container (a shallow container freezes faster). Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Step 6: Freeze and Enjoy
Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it freezes, the firmer the ice cream will become. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Top with the reserved crushed Oreos and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Mint Oreo Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the ice cream! Look for high-fat heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a less dense and creamy texture.
- Freeze in a shallow container: This helps the ice cream freeze faster and more evenly.
- Use an ice cream maker (optional): If you have an ice cream maker, you can use it for a smoother, even texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Mint Oreo Ice Cream: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture for a decadent chocolate mint flavor.
- Double Chocolate Mint Oreo Ice Cream: Use dark chocolate Oreos and add the cocoa powder for an intensely rich flavor.
- Add other mix-ins: Get creative! Try adding chocolate chips, Andes mint pieces, or even chopped nuts.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It’s best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for personalized data.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: High
- Sugar: High
This recipe delivers a delightful and refreshing homemade treat perfect for any occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to homemade cooking, and it tastes far superior to store-bought versions. Enjoy your delicious, cool, and minty masterpiece!