Christmas Ice Cream Recipe – Easy Holiday Treat

What brings festive cheer and cooling refreshment to holiday celebrations while delivering rich peppermint and chocolate flavors that rival expensive store-bought brands without requiring ice cream maker or complicated technique? The answer lies in no-churn method combining sweetened condensed milk with whipped cream and crushed candy canes that creates creamy smooth texture through simple folding and freezing. This christmas ice cream recipe proves that homemade frozen treats become effortless when proper ingredient ratios meet patient freezing time. The frozen dessert recipe delivers perfect harmony where sweet vanilla base meets refreshing peppermint and crunchy chocolate, allowing each component to contribute distinct character that creates ultimate festive dessert for holiday parties, family gatherings, and cozy winter evenings.

Ingredients List

For this christmas ice cream recipe you’ll need heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, crushed candy canes, and chocolate chips that combine creating festive no-churn treat.

For the Base:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Pinch of salt
• Red food coloring (optional)

For the Mix-Ins:

• 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (optional)

For Topping:

• Additional crushed candy canes
• Chocolate sauce
• Whipped cream
• Fresh mint leaves

Timing

This christmas ice cream recipe requires simple preparation with extended freezing time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Freeze time: 6-8 hours (or overnight)
• Total time: 6-8 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Whip the Cream

In large chilled mixing bowl using electric mixer or stand mixer, whip cold heavy cream on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until stiff peaks form. Cream should hold its shape when beaters are lifted. Don’t overwhip or cream will become grainy.

Step 2: Prepare Condensed Milk Mixture

In separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, pinch of salt, and few drops of red food coloring if creating pink swirl effect. Stir until completely smooth and uniform in color throughout mixture.

Step 3: Fold Ingredients Together

Gently fold sweetened condensed milk mixture into whipped cream using large spatula and turning motion to maintain airiness. Fold just until no white streaks remain and mixture appears uniform. Gentle folding creates creamy texture that defines this christmas ice cream recipe.

Step 4: Add Mix-Ins

Reserve small handful of crushed candy canes for topping. Fold remaining crushed candy canes, mini chocolate chips, and crushed cookies if using into ice cream base. Distribute evenly throughout mixture without deflating the whipped cream structure.

Step 5: Transfer and Swirl

Pour ice cream mixture into 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal. If desired, add drops of red food coloring on top and swirl with knife or skewer for festive marbled effect. Smooth top with spatula.

Step 6: Freeze Until Firm

Cover pan tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly against surface, then seal with aluminum foil. Freeze for at least 6-8 hours or overnight until completely firm throughout. The christmas ice cream recipe needs adequate time to set properly for scoopable texture.

Nutritional Information

For a serving of this christmas ice cream recipe (1/2 cup), you’ll receive indulgent frozen treat with these approximate values:

• Calories: 285 per serving
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugars: 28g
• Total fat: 16g
• Saturated fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Protein: 4g
• Calcium: 10% daily value
• Iron: 4% daily value

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform your christmas ice cream recipe into a lighter version with these modifications:

• Light cream: Use half heavy cream and half light cream for fewer calories per serving
• Greek yogurt addition: Fold in Greek yogurt with reduced cream for protein boost
• Coconut cream base: Replace dairy with coconut cream for completely vegan version
• Sugar-free candies: Use sugar-free peppermint candies for diabetic-friendly option
• Dark chocolate: Choose dark chocolate chips for antioxidants and less sugar
• Reduced sweetener: Use only 3/4 can condensed milk for less sugar overall
• Banana base: Blend frozen bananas as creamy base with peppermint for natural sweetness
• Stevia condensed milk: Make homemade condensed milk with stevia sweetener
• Portion control: Serve in small dishes or make popsicles for built-in portion sizes

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your christmas ice cream recipe experience with these creative presentation ideas:

• Serve the christmas ice cream recipe in festive bowls with crushed candy cane rim
• Present in waffle cones dipped in melted chocolate and rolled in peppermint pieces
• Create ice cream sandwiches using chocolate chip cookies or brownies for layers
• Top with warm chocolate fudge sauce and whipped cream for sundae presentation
• Serve alongside warm chocolate lava cake for temperature contrast dessert
• Present in clear parfait glasses layered with chocolate sauce and cookie crumbs
• Make milkshakes by blending with milk and topping with whipped cream
• Serve on Christmas dessert board with cookies, fudge, and other holiday sweets
• Create ice cream cake using layers of chocolate cake and homemade ice cream

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Master this christmas ice cream recipe by avoiding these pitfalls that compromise texture:

• Underwhipping cream: Soft peaks won’t hold structure and create icy texture instead of creamy
• Overfolding mixture: Excessive stirring deflates whipped cream and creates dense heavy ice cream
• Warm ingredients: Room temperature cream won’t whip properly and condensed milk makes mixture too soft
• Large candy pieces: Whole candy canes create hard chunks; crush finely for better distribution
• Insufficient freezing: Less than 6 hours results in soft-serve texture that won’t scoop properly
• No parchment liner: Ice cream sticks to pan and makes serving messy and difficult
• Opening freezer frequently: Temperature fluctuations create ice crystals and grainy texture
• Wrong pan size: Too shallow pan causes rapid freezing and icy texture; use proper depth
• Adding extracts to cream: Peppermint should go in condensed milk to prevent cream from deflating

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Preserve the quality of your christmas ice cream recipe with these strategies:

• Airtight storage: Press plastic wrap directly on surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals
• Proper container: Store in freezer-safe container with tight lid for up to 2 weeks
• Serving temperature: Remove from freezer 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving
• Scoop storage: Keep ice cream scoop in warm water between servings for smooth scooping
• Portion freezing: Scoop into individual portions and freeze on tray before storing together
• Avoid refreezing: Once softened, ice cream develops icy texture when refrozen
• Label and date: Mark container with date made to track freshness and use within timeframe
• Back of freezer: Store in back where temperature stays most consistent
• Leftover candy canes: Crush and store in airtight container at room temperature for future batches

Conclusion

This christmas ice cream recipe combines whipped cream with sweetened condensed milk, peppermint, and candy canes, creating festive no-churn frozen dessert through simple folding and patient freezing. Whether serving at holiday party or enjoying cozy evening, this ice cream delivers homemade charm and refreshing peppermint flavor that makes winter celebrations sweeter.

Ready for festive frozen treat? Try this christmas ice cream recipe and share your experience in the review section or leave a comment on our blog!

FAQs

Can I make christmas ice cream recipe without ice cream maker? Yes, this no-churn recipe requires only mixing bowl, mixer, and freezer for perfectly creamy homemade ice cream.

Why is my homemade ice cream icy instead of creamy? Most likely underwhipped cream or opening freezer too often; whip to stiff peaks and freeze undisturbed.

Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint? Yes, try almond, vanilla, or mint extracts for different flavor profiles while maintaining festive additions.

How long does christmas ice cream recipe last in freezer? Properly stored, homemade ice cream maintains best quality for up to 2 weeks; use within month for optimal taste.

Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and coconut condensed milk for completely dairy-free version.

What if I don’t have candy canes? Substitute with peppermint extract and add more chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or other festive mix-ins.

Why won’t my cream whip to stiff peaks? Ensure cream is very cold, bowl is chilled, and cream is full-fat; warm cream or low-fat varieties won’t whip properly.