Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

I love making ice cream at home, and my Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is one of my favorites.

If you don’t know what mint chocolate chip ice cream is, it’s a creamy, sweet ice cream with fresh mint flavor and bits of chocolate chips.

With my Cuisinart ice cream maker, this recipe is super simple. You’ll love how smooth and fresh it tastes, right from your own kitchen.

If you have ever wondered how to get that cool mint taste with sweet chocolate in every bite, this recipe is for you. You can also check my other Cuisinart Chocolate Chip Ice Cream if you want more ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

This Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a total winner, and here’s why:

1. So Creamy: The mix of cream and milk makes every bite smooth and rich.
2. Fresh Mint Taste: Real mint flavor shines through, not fake or overpowering.
3. Chocolate Heaven: Chunks of chocolate add a perfect crunch in every scoop.
4. Easy to Make: My Cuisinart ice cream maker does all the hard work for you.
5. Fun for Everyone: Kids and grown-ups can’t resist this cool, sweet treat.

I love how this ice cream brings back memories of summer days at home. It’s simple to make, and the fresh mint mixed with chocolate is just right. You’ll want to make it again and again!

Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this tasty ice cream. I’ll explain each ingredient so you know exactly why it’s in there:

• Heavy Cream (2 cups): This gives the ice cream its rich, creamy texture. It’s thick and makes every bite super smooth. Use cold cream straight from the fridge for the best results.
• Whole Milk (1 cup): Milk balances the cream so it’s not too heavy. It helps the ice cream freeze nicely and keeps it scoopable.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Sugar sweetens the ice cream and helps it stay soft in the freezer. It mixes in easily and gives just the right sweetness.
• Fresh Mint Leaves (1 cup, packed): Fresh mint is the star! It gives a natural, cool flavor. Wash and pat dry the leaves before using.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla adds a warm, sweet note that makes the mint taste even better.
• Salt (pinch): Just a tiny bit of salt brings out all the flavors. Don’t skip it—it’s a small but mighty ingredient!
• Green Food Coloring (2-3 drops, optional): This gives the ice cream that fun green color. You can skip it if you want a natural look.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks (¾ cup): These add the perfect chocolatey crunch. I like chopping a chocolate bar for bigger pieces, but chips work great too.

Helpful Swaps

If you’re missing something or want to mix it up, here are some swaps that work:

• Heavy Cream: Swap with half-and-half for a lighter texture, but it won’t be as creamy.
• Whole Milk: Use 2% milk if that’s what you have. It’ll still taste good but might be less rich.
• Fresh Mint: If you can’t find fresh mint, use 1 teaspoon of pure mint extract instead. Add it slowly to avoid a too-strong flavor.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can work, but they might change the taste a bit.
• Chocolate Chips: Try dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chunks for a fun twist.
• Green Food Coloring: Skip it entirely or use a natural coloring like spirulina powder for a green hue.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, you’ll need:

1. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker: The star of the show! It churns the ice cream to perfection. Make sure the freezer bowl is frozen for 16-24 hours before starting.
2. Medium Saucepan: For heating the cream, milk, and mint mixture.
3. Mixing Bowls: One for steeping the mint and another for chilling the mixture.
4. Fine Mesh Strainer: To strain out the mint leaves for a smooth base.
5. Whisk: For mixing the ingredients evenly.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the amounts just right.
7. Spatula: Helps scrape the mixture into the ice cream maker.
8. Airtight Container: For storing the finished ice cream in the freezer.
9. Knife and Cutting Board (optional): If you’re chopping a chocolate bar into chunks.

How to Make Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Let’s make this Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream step by step. I’ll guide you like I’m right there in your kitchen, and I promise it’s easy enough for beginners!

Step 1 | Freeze the Bowl

Put your Cuisinart freezer bowl in the freezer for 16-24 hours. I keep mine in the back where it’s coldest. Shake it to make sure you don’t hear liquid moving—it should be solid.

Step 2 | Heat the Base

Grab a medium saucepan and pour in 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and ¾ cup of sugar. Add a pinch of salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and it’s warm but not boiling—about 5 minutes. You’ll see tiny bubbles around the edges.

Step 3 | Steep the Mint

Take the pan off the heat and stir in 1 cup of fresh mint leaves. Cover the pan and let it sit for 30 minutes. This lets the mint flavor soak into the cream. It smells amazing!

Step 4 | Strain the Mixture

After 30 minutes, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the mint leaves. Press the leaves gently with a spatula to get all the flavor out. Pour the liquid into a clean bowl.

Step 5 | Add Vanilla and Color

Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you want that classic green look, add 2-3 drops of green food coloring and mix well. You can skip the coloring if you prefer.

Step 6 | Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight. It needs to be cold before churning.

Step 7 | Set Up the Cuisinart

Take your frozen bowl out of the freezer and place it on the Cuisinart base. Add the mixing paddle and lock the lid in place. Turn the machine on by flipping the On/Off switch.

Step 8 | Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture through the ingredient spout while the machine is running. Let it churn for 15-20 minutes. You’ll see it get thick and creamy.

Step 9 | Add Chocolate

In the last 5 minutes, pour ¾ cup of chocolate chips or chunks through the spout. The paddle will mix them in evenly.

Step 10 | Check the Texture

When it looks like soft-serve ice cream, it’s done! If you want it firmer, scoop it into an airtight container and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Step 11 | Serve or Store

Scoop it out and enjoy right away, or store it in the freezer. I love eating it fresh—it’s so creamy!

Recipe Tips for Success

Here are some extra tips to make your Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream perfect:

• Freeze the Bowl Well: Make sure the freezer bowl is rock-solid. I forgot once, and my ice cream was more like soup!
• Don’t Rush the Churn: Let the machine run the full time for the best texture.
• Taste the Base: Before chilling, taste the mixture to check the mint flavor. Add a drop of mint extract if it’s too mild.
• Chop Chocolate Evenly: If using a chocolate bar, cut it into small chunks so every bite has some.
• Clean the Spout: Wipe the ingredient spout after adding chocolate to avoid sticky messes.
• Work Fast: The freezer bowl starts to defrost quickly, so pour in the mixture right away.

Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to enjoy your Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream:

1. In a Cone: Serve it in a waffle cone for a classic ice cream shop vibe.
2. With Toppings: Drizzle with hot fudge or sprinkle crushed cookies on top.
3. As a Sundae: Add whipped cream and a cherry for a fun dessert.
4. With Dessert: Pair it with brownies or cake for an extra treat.
5. In a Milkshake: Blend a scoop with milk for a minty shake.

How to Store Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Storing your Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is easy. Scoop it into an airtight container right after churning.

Don’t leave it in the freezer bowl—it’ll stick and could damage it. Press plastic wrap on the surface before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals.

Store it in the freezer at 0°F for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to eat, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften for easy scooping.

I love having a batch ready for a quick dessert—it’s like a treat waiting for me!

Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream FAQs

1. Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?

No, dried mint won’t give the same fresh flavor. Fresh mint leaves are key for that bright, cool taste. If you can’t find fresh mint, try 1 teaspoon of pure mint extract, but add it slowly and taste as you go. Fresh is best, so check your local store or even a farmer’s market for mint leaves.

2. How long does it take to churn the ice cream?

It usually takes 15-20 minutes in the Cuisinart ice cream maker. The mixture will look like soft-serve when it’s done. If you want it firmer, pop it in the freezer for 2-4 hours. Keep an eye on it while churning to get the texture you like.

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

Yes, but it’s trickier. Pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals. Add the chocolate chips in the last stir. It won’t be as creamy as using a Cuisinart, but it still tastes great.

4. Why is my ice cream too hard to scoop?

If it’s too hard, it might have been frozen too long or your freezer is too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Store it in an airtight container to keep it from getting icy. A warm spoon also helps with scooping.

5. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate chips or chunks work fine and make the ice cream sweeter. You can also try dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Just use the same amount (¾ cup) and chop them into small pieces if you’re using a chocolate bar.

6. How do I know if my freezer bowl is frozen enough?

Shake the Cuisinart freezer bowl. If you don’t hear liquid sloshing inside, it’s ready. It needs 16-24 hours in a freezer set to 0°F. I keep mine in the freezer all the time so it’s always ready to go when I want ice cream.

Did you make this Cuisinart Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream? Please leave a ⭐ rating and review!