This creamy cookies and cream ice cream is a dream come true for dessert lovers! It combines crunchy Oreo pieces with luscious vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
Making it yourself is super fun! I mean, who doesn’t love sneaking a taste while mixing? Just chill it, scoop it, and enjoy on a hot day or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a creamy texture! If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be as rich. I personally love using heavy cream for that super indulgent feel.
Whole Milk: The whole milk adds creaminess, but you can swap it with 2% milk if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind it might affect the creaminess slightly. I’ve tried using oat milk for a dairy-free version, and it works well!
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the ice cream. You could use brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor or alternatives like honey or maple syrup, though you’d need to adjust the quantity. I prefer granulated sugar for classic sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla gives a warm flavor. If you’re in a pinch, imitation vanilla can substitute, but I always recommend using the real thing for the best taste.
Oreo Cookies: Classic choice! You can also use gluten-free varieties or even another chocolate sandwich cookie if you want a twist. Personally, I love the original Oreos for nostalgia!
How Do I Properly Churn Ice Cream for the Best Texture?
Churning ice cream is a key step for achieving the perfect texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your ice cream maker’s bowl is pre-frozen as per the instructions. This helps the ice cream freeze faster.
- Pour the prepared ice cream mixture into the frozen bowl and turn on the machine.
- Let it churn for about 20-25 minutes until it’s fluffy and reaches a soft-serve consistency. Don’t rush this stage!
- Five minutes before completion, add in your chopped Oreos so they’re evenly distributed.
This churning process incorporates air, which is vital for a light texture. If your ice cream is too soft, give it a few more minutes. Enjoy the process—it’s one of the best parts!
Easy Homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup whole milk, cold
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 15 Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies), roughly chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cookies and cream ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to churn. After that, you’ll need to freeze it for a minimum of 2-4 hours to get the right texture. So, in total, plan for about 3 to 4 hours including chilling time. But trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Pour in the cold heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk, mix everything vigorously until the sugar is fully dissolved. This should take a minute or so—your muscles get a little workout while preparing deliciousness!
2. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once your mixture is ready, pour it into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions; typically, you will churn it for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Don’t forget to sneak a little taste—it’s so good!
3. Add the Oreo Cookies:
When your ice cream is almost finished churning (about 5 minutes left), carefully add the roughly chopped Oreo cookies to the mixture. This will help them evenly distribute throughout your ice cream, ensuring every scoop is filled with that delicious cookie crunch!
4. Transfer and Freeze:
Once your ice cream has churned to perfection, it’s time to transfer it to an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and pop it in the freezer. Let it chill for at least 2-4 hours—this will help it firm up and give it that perfect scoopable texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, after the waiting is over, scoop your dreamy cookies and cream ice cream into bowls or cones. Top with extra cookie pieces if you like. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy homemade delight. Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve a treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% milk or even almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just note that using lower-fat milk may result in a less creamy texture!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make this ice cream by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish and freezing it. Stir it every 30 minutes until it’s frozen (about 3-4 hours). This will help create a smoother texture without an ice cream maker.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store your homemade cookies and cream ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, but make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping again for easier serving.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can add crushed candy bars, chocolate chips, or even different flavored cookies. Just remember to add them during the last few minutes of churning to ensure even distribution.
