Easy Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Treat!
There’s nothing quite like a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day. But if you’re looking for a healthier option without refined sugar or artificial coloring, you’re in for a treat! This easy-to-make mint chocolate chip ice cream is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or having a backyard barbecue, this ice cream is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and some tips for making it perfect every time!
Easy Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Treat!
Course: Desserts4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 cup cottage cheese: This is the secret ingredient that makes the ice cream creamy without the need for heavy cream. Plus, it adds a boost of protein.
1/4 cup raw honey: Adjust the measurement depending on your preferred level of sweetness. Raw honey adds a natural sweetness and some beneficial enzymes and antioxidants.
1 tsp peppermint extract: This gives the ice cream its refreshing mint flavor. Make sure to use a good quality extract for the best taste.
1/4 tsp spirulina: This natural superfood adds a beautiful green color without any artificial dyes. It’s also rich in nutrients.
Dark chocolate (chopped into bits): The star ingredient that gives the classic chocolate chip texture and rich flavor. Use good quality dark chocolate for the best results.
Directions
- Blend Ingredients
- Start by combining 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1/4 cup of raw honey, 1 tsp of peppermint extract, and 1/4 tsp of spirulina in a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The cottage cheese may seem like an unusual ingredient, but trust me, it works wonders in creating a creamy base without the need for traditional ice cream ingredients like heavy cream and eggs.
- Transfer to Container
- Once the mixture is smooth, pour it into a glass container. Glass containers are great for freezing as they help the ice cream set evenly and are easy to clean.
- Add Chocolate Bits
- Now comes the fun part! Stir in the chopped dark chocolate bits into the mixture. Make sure the chocolate bits are evenly distributed throughout. This ensures that every bite has that delightful crunch of chocolate.
- Freeze
- Place the glass container in the freezer. Let the mixture freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Freezing overnight is ideal as it allows the flavors to meld together and the ice cream to set properly.
- Thaw and Serve
- Before serving, let the ice cream thaw for about 10 minutes. This softens it slightly, making it easier to scoop and enhancing the creamy texture. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your delicious, homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream!
Tips for Success:
- Blending: Ensure that the cottage cheese is fully blended with no lumps remaining. This will give your ice cream a smoother texture.
- Sweetness: Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust the honey if needed. Remember, the sweetness can mellow a bit once frozen.
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins! You can add nuts, crushed cookies, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. The ice cream should last for about 1-2 weeks, but it’s so delicious it probably won’t last that long!
This mint chocolate chip ice cream is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic treat with a healthy twist. It’s creamy, minty, and packed with chocolate goodness, all while being free from refined sugars and artificial colors. Perfect for summer or any time you crave a refreshing dessert. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!
Final Thoughts:
Homemade ice cream is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. This mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe is a great starting point, especially if you’re new to making ice cream at home. The use of cottage cheese may surprise you, but it creates a wonderfully creamy base that’s both healthy and delicious.
So, grab your blender, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch of this delightful ice cream. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, and you’ll love knowing that it’s made with wholesome, natural ingredients. Happy scooping!
