About Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved dessert classics—ice cream and cookies. Combining the refreshing flavor of mint and the rich delight of chocolate chips, these cookies provide a cool and creamy texture that’s perfect for any occasion. The bright green color of the mint and the dark chocolate chips contribute to an inviting aesthetic, making these cookies not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
What You’ll Need for Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
Complete Ingredients List
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mint chocolate chip ice cream, softened
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
- Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter brand.
- Sugar Alternatives: To make it sugar-free, consider using erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Flour Substitutions: A gluten-free flour blend can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Egg Replacement: To make these cookies vegan, use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg).
For unique flavor variations, consider adding crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans, or you could even use white chocolate chips for a completely different taste experience.
How to Make Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
Step 2: Add the Eggs and Peppermint Extract
Once the butter and sugar mixture is ready, add in the two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in 1 tablespoon of peppermint extract. Mix until fully combined, bringing the mixture to a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the flour is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Ice Cream
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of softened mint chocolate chip ice cream. The ice cream will add a delicious creaminess to the cookies, so ensure they are well distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop mounds of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; this is expected as they will firm up when cooling.
Step 7: Cool and Serving
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions for Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
How to Serve Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
These Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. The soft, chewy texture complemented by the coolness of the mint and chocolate makes them a perfect treat for a gathering or even a cozy night at home. For an extra touch, you can slightly warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving, bringing back the ice cream-like qualities.
For plating, a simple presentation on a decorative plate or tiered stand can elevate the dessert experience. Stack them or arrange them side by side to create an inviting dessert display.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
For added indulgence, consider drizzling the cookies with a homemade chocolate sauce or a minty glaze. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side can enhance the experience for those who want to double down on the dessert goodness! Some might opt for a sprinkle of crushed mint candies or chocolate shavings for texture and flavor.
Storing & Preserving Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
Best Storage Methods
To keep your Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them for a longer period, they can be frozen. Place layers of parchment paper between the cookies in a freezer-safe container, and they will maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
When you decide to enjoy a frozen cookie, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before eating. If you prefer them warm, the microwave is your best bet—gently warm for about 10 seconds at a time to avoid overheating.
Tips for Perfect Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies Every Time
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies; mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Not Chilling the Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Helpful Tricks for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and extract to ensure your cookies taste the best they can.
- Try a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies, a cookie scoop is a game-changer and ensures uniform baking.
- Batch Processing: If you’re baking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. Just be sure you have enough baking sheets!
Fun Variations of Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Consider these fun variations for a new twist on your basic Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies:
- Add-ins: Incorporate crushed Oreo cookies for a mint chocolate Oreo experience.
- Citrus Infusion: A hint of orange or lemon zest can create a refreshing flavor contrast.
- Nutty Delight: Add walnuts or macadamia nuts for some crunch.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
For those following specific diets, don’t hesitate to experiment:
- Vegan: Substitute non-dairy ice cream and use flax eggs.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace sugar with a keto-approved sweetener and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
What If My Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?
If the cookies turned out too dry, consider adjusting your oven time next time or incorporate a bit more ice cream into the mix. For cookies that spread too much, ensure your butter is softened, not melted, and consider chilling the dough before baking.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before baking.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
If you’re out of peppermint extract, consider using vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor. For the chocolate chips, dark chocolate or even white chocolate can be substituted as per your taste.
Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies are more than just a treat—they embody the joyous spirit of dessert-making. With their charming minty flavor and versatile nature, they can easily adapt to various palates and dietary needs while remaining a favorite for all! Enjoy baking these delightful cookies and share them with friends and family—after all, great desserts are meant to be shared.
PrintMint Chip Ice Cream Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and chewy Mint Chip Ice Cream Cookies bursting with rich chocolate chips and a cool mint flavor, made extra creamy with real mint chocolate chip ice cream folded into the dough.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mint chocolate chip ice cream, softened
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and softened mint chocolate chip ice cream until evenly distributed.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
- Substitute erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free option.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- To make it vegan, replace each egg with 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.
- Add crushed nuts or white chocolate chips for flavor variety.
- Warm cookies for 10-15 seconds in the microwave before serving for an extra soft texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: mint chip cookies, ice cream cookies, chocolate chip, peppermint dessert, chewy cookies, homemade cookies