Cookies and cream ice cream is a timeless favorite, beloved by both children and adults for its creamy texture and delightful cookie crunch. Making this classic treat at home is not only rewarding but also allows for customization and a fresher taste compared to store-bought versions. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of making homemade cookies and cream ice cream, ensuring that each step is easy to follow and yields delicious results.
Ingredients for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
To begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
These ingredients are easily accessible at most grocery stores, and some may already be in your kitchen pantry. The combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a rich and creamy base, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. The crushed chocolate sandwich cookies add the signature “cookies and cream” element.
Instructions for Making Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial as it ensures a smooth and creamy texture in the final product.
Tip: Using a handheld mixer can speed up the process and ensure the sugar is fully incorporated.
2. Chill the Mixture
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. For best results, chill the mixture overnight. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the mixture is cold enough for the churning process.
Tip: Use a large, shallow container for faster chilling.
3. Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Tip: Ensure your ice cream maker’s bowl is fully frozen before starting the churning process for optimal results.
4. Add the Cookies
During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies to the ice cream maker. Allow the machine to mix the cookies evenly into the ice cream. This ensures that every scoop of ice cream has a good distribution of cookie pieces.
Tip: Lightly crush the cookies to leave some larger chunks for added texture.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Tip: Use a container with a tight seal to keep the ice cream fresh and free from freezer burn.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy! You can also garnish with extra crushed cookies if desired. This homemade cookies and cream ice cream is creamy, delicious, and packed with chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies. Perfect for a sweet treat any time of the year!
Tip: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make serving easier.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Ice Cream
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your ice cream will taste. Opt for organic dairy products and real vanilla extract.
- Chill thoroughly: Ensure the mixture is well-chilled before churning to achieve a smooth texture.
- Don’t overfill the ice cream maker: Leave some space for the ice cream to expand as it churns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Using low-fat milk will result in a less creamy texture. For best results, stick with whole milk and heavy cream.
Q2: Can I make cookies and cream ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can! Mix the ingredients as instructed, pour the mixture into a shallow dish, and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q3: How long does homemade ice cream last?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Q4: Can I add other mix-ins to this ice cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with other mix-ins such as chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or nuts.
Q5: What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla bean paste or the seeds from one vanilla bean.
Conclusion
Making homemade cookies and cream ice cream is a delightful and rewarding process. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious treat that rivals any store-bought version. Enjoy the creamy, cookie-filled goodness of your homemade ice cream, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
Happy ice cream making!
