This creamy cookies and cream ice cream is a real treat! It’s made with rich vanilla ice cream and crunchy chocolate cookies that blend perfectly together.
You can’t go wrong with this dessert! I always keep a tub in the freezer because it’s one scoop away from happiness. Who doesn’t love a classic? 🍦
Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is key for creaminess! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though it won’t be as rich. Coconut cream also works great for a dairy-free twist!
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds a nice body to the ice cream. You can substitute it with 2% milk if you’re aiming for fewer calories, but avoid skim milk since it won’t give the same texture.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar is perfect for sweetness. If you want a lower-calorie option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, but taste as you go since these can vary in sweetness!
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Oreos are classic, but any brand of chocolate sandwich cookie will work! For a unique flavor, try using chocolate mint or peanut butter cookies.
How Do I Get the Best Consistency When Churning Ice Cream?
The churning process is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your ice cream. Here are some tips:
- Make sure all your ingredients are cold before mixing. This helps the ice cream to freeze faster and form smaller ice crystals.
- Follow the ice cream maker’s instructions closely regarding churning time. Over-churning can lead to a grainy texture.
- Mix in your cookies during the last few minutes of churning to ensure they’re evenly distributed without becoming too mushy.
Once you’ve churned the ice cream to a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for optimal firmness before serving. Enjoy your homemade treat!
How to Make Creamy Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 15-20 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo), roughly chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of churning time. After that, give it at least 4 hours in the freezer to firm up your delicious ice cream. In total, you’ll need about 4 hours and 35 minutes before you can enjoy your ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until you see that the sugar has completely dissolved. This is important because it helps create a smooth texture for your ice cream!
2. Churn the Ice Cream:
Next, pour your delicious mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions for churning—usually, this takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches a soft-serve consistency that looks fluffy and creamy!
3. Add the Cookies:
Almost there! In the last 5 minutes of churning, carefully add the roughly chopped chocolate sandwich cookies to the mixture. This way, they get evenly distributed without breaking down too much. Just a few more minutes to go!
4. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Now comes the hard part: transferring the ice cream into an airtight container. Make sure to pack it down a little, and cover it tightly. Pop it into the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it’s nice and firm—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your ice cream has hardened, it’s time for the best part—scooping and serving! Serve it in bowls or cones, and enjoy the cool, creamy, and crunchy goodness of your homemade cookies and cream ice cream!
FAQ for Creamy Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Recipe
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the ice cream will be less creamy. For the best texture, stick to whole milk or even consider using half-and-half if you want a little compromise!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, crushed candies, or different flavors of cookies. Just be sure to add them in the last few minutes of churning to keep their textures intact!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No ice cream maker? No problem! Just pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, freeze it for about 1 hour, then stir vigorously with a fork to break up the ice crystals. Repeat this every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until it reaches your desired consistency.
