Refreshing Homemade Fresh Mint Ice Cream Recipe

This refreshing homemade fresh mint ice cream recipe captures the cool, invigorating essence of garden-fresh mint. Made from real mint leaves rather than artificial flavorings, this ice cream boasts a subtle, herbal flavor with a creamy, smooth texture. It’s a luxurious summer treat that’s perfect on its own or served with a warm dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mint ice cream is not your average store-bought dessert. It uses fresh mint leaves to infuse a natural and aromatic flavor, creating a more complex and authentic mint experience. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a classic custard base, this homemade ice cream is both nostalgic and gourmet. It’s ideal for entertaining guests, treating family, or simply cooling off on a hot day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh mint leaves
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Egg yolks
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Optional: Chocolate chips or chunks for a mint chocolate chip variation

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, and fresh mint leaves. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam, then remove from heat. Cover and let the mint steep for about 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
3. Reheat the mint-infused cream until warm again. Slowly pour a small amount into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon.
5. Strain the mixture to remove the mint leaves, then chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Churn the chilled custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If desired, add chocolate chips or chunks during the last few minutes of churning.
7. Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Steeping and chilling time: 4–6 hours
Churning and freezing time: 2–3 hours
Total time: Approximately 7–9 hours

Variations

• Mint Chocolate Chip: Stir in chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips during the final minutes of churning.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the dairy with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based egg replacer.
• Mint and Lime: Add a teaspoon of lime zest to the steeping mixture for a citrusy twist.
• Boozy Mint Ice Cream: Add a splash of crème de menthe or peppermint schnapps for an adult version.

storage/reheating

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To keep it scoopable, press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing.
Reheating is not applicable, but if the ice cream is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How do I make the mint flavor stronger?

Use more fresh mint leaves or steep the leaves for a longer time to intensify the flavor.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of fresh mint?

Yes, but the flavor will be sharper and less nuanced than using fresh mint.

Is it necessary to strain out the mint leaves?

Yes, straining is important to remove the leaves and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

You can freeze the custard and stir it every 30 minutes for a few hours to simulate churning, though the texture may be less smooth.

How long should I steep the mint?

Steep the mint for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your flavor preference.

What type of mint is best for this recipe?

Spearmint is preferred for a mild, sweet flavor, while peppermint will yield a stronger taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the custard can be made a day in advance and churned the next day.

Why does my ice cream taste eggy?

Overcooking the custard can cause the eggs to curdle. Cook over low heat and stir constantly to avoid this.

Can I add food coloring for a green tint?

Yes, you can add a few drops of green food coloring if you prefer a more traditional mint ice cream appearance.

How do I store leftover ice cream?

Store it in a freezer-safe, airtight container with a layer of parchment or plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent ice crystals.

Conclusion

This refreshing homemade fresh mint ice cream is a delightful way to enjoy the taste of real mint in a rich, creamy dessert. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for warm-weather indulgence.

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