Homemade Peppermint ice cream is a dessert that’s sure to be enjoyed by anyone who loves the refreshing taste of peppermint.

Note: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by freezing the mixture in a shallow pan, stirring occasionally until it is frozen. This method will result in a slightly icier texture, but it will still be delicious.

Here’s a recipe for Peppermint ice cream:

Serving size and preparation time:

The preparation time for homemade Peppermint ice cream is approximately 30 minutes for the custard base, plus chilling time and churning time in an ice cream maker, which can take an additional 30-45 minutes. Overall, the recipe takes about 5-6 hours to complete, including freezing time.

The serving size will depend on how much ice cream each person wants, but this recipe yields approximately 1 quart of ice cream, which is about 8 servings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 6 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy or candy canes

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they are light and frothy.
3. Gradually pour about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture and stir well.
5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
7. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
9. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it is cold, at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
11. During the last few minutes of churning, add the crushed peppermint candy to the ice cream.
12. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze until it is firm, at least 2-3 hours.
13. Serve and enjoy!

Topping suggestions:

Homemade Peppermint ice cream is delicious on its own, but here are some topping suggestions to make it even more festive and flavorful:

1. Hot Fudge Sauce: Drizzle warm fudge sauce over the top of the ice cream for a decadent treat.
2. Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle some extra crushed candy canes on top of the ice cream for a festive and minty crunch.
3. Whipped Cream: Top the ice cream with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast to the cool, refreshing ice cream.
4. Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips to the ice cream for a bit of extra texture and flavor.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top of the ice cream for a sweet and indulgent treat.
6. Chopped Nuts: Top the ice cream with some chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, for a delicious and crunchy addition.
7. Fresh Berries: Serve the ice cream with some fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, for a fruity and refreshing twist.
8. Marshmallows: Add some mini marshmallows to the ice cream for a fun and playful touch.

Homemade Peppermint ice cream is generally considered a delicious and festive treat. The addition of crushed peppermint candy or candy canes adds an extra burst of flavor and texture, making it a treat that is loved by many.