DIY Peppermint Ice Cream: A Sweet and Refreshing Treat

Peppermint ice cream is a popular treat during the holiday season, but you can enjoy its zesty, minty flavor year-round. Whether you prefer the smooth texture of homemade ice cream or the more traditional kulfi, there are plenty of ways to make this delightful dessert. You can even experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect minty ice treat.

Homemade Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe

Creating homemade peppermint ice cream is simpler than you might think. Start by following a basic vanilla ice cream recipe but replace the vanilla extract with peppermint extract. You could also crush a candy cane or two to add texture to the mix. Decide on the color or leave it white, but if you want a more festive look, consider coloring it mint green.

Ingredients and Instructions

2 cups whole milk 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 1 egg yolk 1 cup whipping cream 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Combine milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and mix well. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and salt. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cream into the milk mixture. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. Before freezing, ensure the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add a crushed candy cane for extra texture if desired. Once it's done, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for a few hours or overnight.

Mint Ice-Candy Recipe

For a simpler and more authentic version, consider making a mint ice-candy. This is a traditional method from India that results in a sweet, spicy, and flavor-packed treat. Here's what you need to start making your mint ice-candy:

4 cups filtered water 1/2 cup salt 1/2 cup sugar or jaggery 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (roasted is better) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder 1/2 teaspoon aamchur powder (green mango powder) 1/4 cup finely chopped mint and coriander leaves Lemon juice (to taste)

Instructions:

Combine water, salt, sugar (or jaggery), cumin powder, black pepper powder, and aamchur powder in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Add the chopped mint and coriander leaves and stir well to combine. Pour the mixture into kulfi molds and freeze for a few hours or overnight until solid. Run the molds under cold water for a few seconds to loosen the ice-candy before removing.

Modern Twist on Peppermint Ice Cream

For those who want a more contemporary take on mint ice cream, consider making a store-like version. Here's a simple recipe that will get you started:

Ingredients and Instructions

1 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tablespoon mint essence 1 teaspoon green food coloring Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

Combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, and mint essence in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Pour the mixture into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If using chocolate chips, add them and blend again. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for a few hours or until it's set. Add green food coloring to the container and stir to combine. Defrost for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Making homemade peppermint ice cream or mint ice-candy is a delightful experience that allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking. Whether you prefer rich, creamy ice cream or the authentic, complex taste of mint ice-candy, there's a recipe for everyone. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to create your perfect treat. Enjoy!