This Easy Homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is a treat! With creamy vanilla goodness and chunks of chocolate cookies, it’s a favorite for all ages.
Making it is a breeze! Just mix, freeze, and enjoy. I could eat it every day—who could resist such a sweet delight? 🥳
What I love is how simple it is to whip up. It’s perfect for hot days or movie nights. Grab your favorite cookies, and let’s get started!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream gives your ice cream that rich and smooth texture. If you want a lighter version, you can blend heavy cream with half-and-half, though it will be less creamy.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but if you’re watching calories, you can use 2% milk instead. Skim milk can work too, but the result will be less luxurious.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is a must for sweetness. If you prefer a healthier alternative, try using honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract gives a lovely flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with vanilla bean paste for a more intense taste. I sometimes use vanilla-flavored almond extract for a twist!
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Oreos are classic, but feel free to switch this up! Chocolate wafer cookies or other brands work great, too. You can even use gluten-free cookies if that’s a concern.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Ice Cream?
Getting that perfect ice cream texture is key! Here are some tips to help you achieve it:
- Chill Everything: Ensure your heavy cream and milk are well chilled before mixing. This helps the ice cream freeze faster.
- Churn Properly: Follow your ice cream maker’s instructions carefully. Churning is crucial as it introduces air, making your ice cream light and fluffy.
- Add Mix-Ins at the Right Time: Stir in the cookies in the last few minutes of churning. This ensures they’re evenly distributed without becoming mushy.
- Freeze Firm: After churning, transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours. This helps it set properly for scooping!
With these tips, your homemade ice cream will be a delightful treat that everyone will love!
Easy Homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1 cup whole milk, chilled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 15-20 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos), coarsely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream recipe will take you about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to churn in the ice cream maker. After that, you’ll need to freeze it for at least 4 hours. So plan for around 4 hours and 30 minutes in total, but much of that is just waiting for it to freeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chilled heavy cream, cold whole milk, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract. Make sure the sugar fully dissolves for a smooth mixture.
2. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once your base is mixed, pour it into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning, which typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. You want it to thicken to a soft-serve consistency.
3. Add the Cookies:
During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the coarsely chopped chocolate sandwich cookies. This way, they’ll be evenly mixed throughout your ice cream without turning into dust!
4. Transfer and Freeze:
After churning, transfer your ice cream into an airtight container. Use a spatula to smooth out the top. Cover it well and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to indulge, scoop the cookies and cream ice cream into bowls. Enjoy it as is or with some extra crumbs on top for that delicious cookie crunch!
This homemade cookies and cream ice cream is creamy, dreamy, and filled with crunchy cookie pieces—a delightful dessert to share or enjoy all by yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
While you can use low-fat milk, I recommend sticking with whole milk for the creamiest texture. If you want to cut calories, consider using a combination of whole milk and half-and-half for a compromise.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer. Be sure to allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, as homemade ice cream can get quite hard!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir it every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to prevent ice crystals from forming until it’s fully frozen.
What Other Mix-Ins Can I Add?
You can customize this ice cream with various mix-ins! Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of fudge or caramel for extra flavor. Just be sure to add them during the last few minutes of churning for the best distribution.
