Short Description
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is a beloved classic that combines the richness of vanilla ice cream with the delightful crunch of chocolate sandwich cookies. This homemade version offers a creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: Made with readily available ingredients.
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Customizable: Adjust the amount of cookies to your preference.
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No Artificial Additives: Homemade means no preservatives or artificial flavors.
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Family Favorite: A hit with both children and adults.
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Perfect Texture: Achieves a creamy consistency with delightful cookie chunks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 cup (227g) whole milk, cold
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1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar
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2 cups (454g) heavy cream, cold
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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15 to 20 (170g to 255g) chocolate sandwich cookies, broken into chunks
Directions
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Combine Milk and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Chill the Mixture: For optimal results, cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to ensure it’s thoroughly chilled.
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Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Incorporate Cookies: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, fold in the broken cookie chunks.
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Freeze to Desired Firmness: Transfer the ice cream to a covered container and freeze for 2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches your preferred firmness.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 8 servings
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Chilling Time: 1 hour
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Churning Time: 20-25 minutes
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Freezing Time: 2-3 hours
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Total Time: Approximately 4 hours
Variations
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Double Chocolate: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the base mixture for a chocolate ice cream base.
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Mint Cookies and Cream: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies to accommodate dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Option: Substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream, and use vegan cookies.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
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Softening: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping.
FAQs
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze it, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
What type of cookies work best?
Classic chocolate sandwich cookies are traditional, but you can experiment with different flavors or brands.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Reducing sugar may affect the texture and freezing point, but slight adjustments can be made to suit your taste.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?
Ensure the mixture is well-chilled before churning and store the finished ice cream in an airtight container.
Can I add mix-ins besides cookies?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to chill the mixture before churning?
Chilling helps improve the texture and reduces the churning time, resulting in creamier ice cream.
How long does homemade ice cream last?
For best quality, consume within 2 weeks. Over time, ice crystals may develop, affecting texture.
Can I use low-fat milk and cream?
Using lower-fat dairy will result in a less creamy texture. Whole milk and heavy cream are recommended for optimal richness.
What’s the best way to break the cookies?
Place them in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin to achieve chunky pieces.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and ensure cookies are dairy-free.
Conclusion
Homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its creamy base and crunchy cookie pieces, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating this classic ice cream and savor every spoonful!
[tasty-recipe id=”18602″]