Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the fresh mint leaves to the saucepan, packing them in to maximize flavor infusion.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. Cover and let steep for about 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down on the mint leaves to extract flavor. Discard the leaves.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually pour the warm mint-infused cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil!
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Once chilled, pour the custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
- If desired, add mini chocolate chips during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Press parchment paper onto the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Seal the container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Once fully frozen, scoop and serve your delicious Fresh Mint Ice Cream. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger mint flavor, let the mint steep for longer than 30 minutes.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a container, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes