You Were Mint For Me, Ice Cream

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

1. Mix Milk and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add Cream and Flavors: Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and green food coloring (if using) until the mixture is uniform in color.
3. Chill the Mixture: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until it’s completely chilled. This step is crucial for a smooth texture in the finished ice cream.

2. Churn the Ice Cream:

1. Set Up Your Ice Cream Maker: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning.
2. Churn: Churn the ice cream until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This process typically takes about 20-25 minutes but may vary depending on your machine.
3. Add Chocolate Chips: In the last few minutes of churning, slowly add the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate to the mixture, allowing them to evenly distribute throughout the ice cream.

3. Freeze:

1. Transfer to a Freezer-Safe Container: Once churning is complete, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Freeze Until Firm: Cover the container and freeze the ice cream for at least 2-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired consistency. For a softer texture, enjoy it sooner; for firmer ice cream, let it freeze longer.

4. Serve:

1. Scoop and Enjoy: Remove the ice cream from the freezer a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve in cones or bowls as desired.

Tips:

• Fresh Mint Option: For a more natural mint flavor, you can steep fresh mint leaves in the milk and cream mixture. Heat the milk, cream, and fresh mint leaves (about 1 cup) in a saucepan until just simmering, then remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain out the mint leaves and chill the mixture before continuing with step 2.
• Chocolate Chip Varieties: Experiment with different types of chocolate (milk, dark, or white) and sizes (mini chips, chunks, or shaved) to find your perfect match.
• Serving Suggestions: Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts, fresh berries, or simply on its own for a refreshing treat.

Enjoy crafting this homemade Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, a perfect blend of cool mint and rich chocolate, for a refreshing dessert experience.