To whip up Winter Peppermint Stick Ice Cream, mix 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract until smooth. Fold in 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies and 1/2 cup chocolate chips. Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before freezing it. This creamy, minty treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, and there’s plenty more to discover about serving it up!
Key Takeaways
- Combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and 3/4 cup granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until sugar dissolves.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the cream mixture, stirring gently.
- Fold in 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies and 1/2 cup chocolate chips for flavor and texture.
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and thicken before freezing.
- Serve the peppermint stick ice cream during holiday gatherings for a festive treat.
History
Although peppermint has been enjoyed for centuries, the combination of peppermint with ice cream became popular in the early 20th century.
This delightful pairing emerged as a festive treat, especially during the winter holidays. People discovered that the cool, invigorating flavor of peppermint perfectly complemented the creamy texture of ice cream, creating a unique dessert experience.
As ice cream shops began to innovate, peppermint stick ice cream quickly climbed the ranks, becoming a seasonal favorite. You might find it served at holiday gatherings, where it adds a touch of cheer to any celebration.
The vibrant red and white swirls not only look appealing but also evoke the spirit of winter, making it a nostalgic treat that many cherish to this day.
Recipe
Indulge in the festive spirit with a delightful Winter Peppermint Stick Ice Cream recipe that promises to be the highlight of your holiday gatherings. This creamy, minty treat combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate, creating a revitalizing dessert that’s perfect for chilly winter nights.
With its vibrant red and white swirls, this ice cream not only tastes amazing but also adds a pop of color to your dessert table. Making your own ice cream at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Nothing beats the satisfaction of churning your own creamy concoction, and this peppermint stick ice cream is no exception.
It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests. So gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this festive delight that will make your winter celebrations even sweeter!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the sugar is completely dissolved.
If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Extra Tips:
For an even more intense peppermint flavor, consider steeping a few fresh mint leaves in the milk before adding it to the cream mixture. Just be sure to strain them out before combining the liquids.
Additionally, for a smoother texture, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as it can harden quite a bit in the freezer.
Enjoy your homemade Winter Peppermint Stick Ice Cream as is, or serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of extra crushed peppermint for an extra festive touch!
Cooking Steps
To start making your winter peppermint stick ice cream, you’ll first crush the peppermint candies finely.
Then, mix together the cream and sugar before adding in the peppermint extract.
It’s a simple process that sets the stage for a revitalizing treat! You can enhance the flavor and texture by following a custard base technique, which adds depth to the ice cream.
Step 1. Crush Peppermint Candies Finely
Grab a sturdy zip-top bag and fill it with peppermint candies for crushing. Make sure the bag is sealed tightly to prevent any spills.
Using a rolling pin or a heavy object, gently tap the candies until they break apart. Start with light pressure, then increase as needed to achieve fine crumbs. It’s okay if some pieces are slightly larger; they’ll add a delightful crunch to your ice cream.
Once you’ve reached your desired consistency, carefully open the bag and transfer the crushed candies into a bowl. Be sure to set aside a few larger pieces for garnishing your ice cream later.
Now you’re ready to incorporate that peppermint flavor into your winter treat!
Step 2. Mix Cream and Sugar
As you prepare to create your winter peppermint stick ice cream, mixing the cream and sugar is an essential step that sets the foundation for a rich and creamy texture.
Start by measuring out your heavy cream and pouring it into a mixing bowl. Next, add granulated sugar to the cream.
Use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed to combine the ingredients thoroughly. You want the sugar to dissolve completely, which may take a few minutes.
Make certain to scrape down the sides of the bowl to guarantee even mixing. Once the mixture is smooth and well-blended, you’re ready to move on to the next step, where you’ll enhance the flavor with peppermint extract.
Enjoy the process!
Step 3. Add Peppermint Extract Now
Now it’s time to infuse your ice cream mixture with that delightful peppermint flavor. Grab your peppermint extract and measure out about one teaspoon.
You can adjust this amount based on how strong you want the flavor to be, but start with one teaspoon for a balanced taste. Pour the extract into your cream and sugar mixture, and stir well to guarantee it’s evenly distributed.
As you mix, you’ll notice the fresh aroma filling your kitchen, creating a festive atmosphere. Make sure to taste the mixture; you want that perfect peppermint punch without overwhelming the creamy base.
Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, it’s time to move on to the next step and add those crushed peppermint pieces.
Step 4. Fold in Crushed Peppermint
With the peppermint extract mixed in, it’s time to add the finishing touch—crushed peppermint.
Grab your crushed peppermint pieces, and gently fold them into the mixture. Use a spatula to guarantee even distribution, so every scoop of ice cream has that delightful crunch.
Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the airiness of the base while incorporating those festive bits of peppermint. This step brings a wonderful texture and flavor to your ice cream.
If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add a bit more crushed candy.
Once you’ve folded in the peppermint, take a moment to admire the beautiful speckles of red and white throughout your mixture.
You’re one step closer to a delicious winter treat!
Step 5. Chill Mixture for 30 Minutes
To guarantee your ice cream mixture reaches the perfect consistency, chill it for 30 minutes. Place your bowl in the refrigerator, making sure that it’s covered to prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
This chilling step is vital; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the mixture thickens slightly. When the time’s up, give it a quick stir to confirm even temperature distribution.
During this chilling phase, you can clean up your workspace or prepare any additional mix-ins you might want to add later. This way, when you’re ready to churn your ice cream, everything’s in place for a smooth process.
After 30 minutes, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying your delightful winter peppermint stick ice cream!
Final Thoughts
As you wrap up your holiday festivities, savoring a bowl of winter peppermint stick ice cream can be the perfect way to add a touch of cheer to your celebrations.
This delightful treat combines creamy texture with invigorating peppermint, making it a festive favorite. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or enjoy it solo by the fireplace, it’s sure to lift your spirits.
Plus, making it from scratch allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Don’t forget to share this recipe with family and friends—they’ll appreciate the homemade touch! Including butter in recipes can elevate the creaminess and flavor even further.
So, go ahead, indulge in every spoonful, and let the seasonal flavors transport you to a winter wonderland.
Happy holidays and happy scooping!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dairy-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use dairy-free alternatives for this recipe! Substitute traditional dairy products with options like almond milk, coconut cream, or cashew milk.
These alternatives will give you a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free. If you’re using heavy cream, try a full-fat coconut milk for richness.
Just be sure to adjust any sweeteners or flavors to fit your taste. You’ll still end up with a delicious treat everyone can enjoy!
How Long Will the Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Ice cream can last in the freezer for about two to three months if stored properly.
To keep it fresh, make sure it’s in an airtight container. You’ll want to minimize exposure to air to prevent freezer burn.
If you notice any changes in texture or flavor, it’s best to toss it out. Always check for any signs of spoilage before indulging in your sweet treat!
Enjoy it while it’s at its best!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Peppermint Stick Ice Cream?
Did you know that around 90% of ice cream lovers enjoy mixing flavors? You can absolutely add other flavors to your peppermint stick ice cream!
Consider blending in chocolate, vanilla, or even a splash of coffee for a unique twist. Just remember to balance the flavors so the peppermint still shines through.
Experimentation is key, so feel free to get creative and make it your own. Enjoy the delicious results!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Children?
Yes, this recipe’s suitable for children! It’s a fun treat that kids usually enjoy, especially with the festive flavors.
Just be mindful of any allergies, particularly to dairy or peppermint. You can also adjust the sweetness to your child’s taste by reducing sugar if needed.
The process of making it can be a fun family activity, allowing kids to participate and learn about cooking while enjoying a delicious dessert together!
What Is the Nutritional Information for This Ice Cream?
When it comes to the nutritional information for this ice cream, you’ll find it typically contains calories, fat, sugar, and carbohydrates.
A serving usually has around 200-300 calories, with varying amounts of sugar and fat depending on the ingredients.
It’s important to check specific brands or recipes for exact values.
If you’re watching your intake, it’s wise to enjoy it in moderation while savoring the flavor and fun it brings!
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