As the holiday season approaches, there’s a joyful buzz in the air, bringing with it a flurry of flavors and festive gatherings. What better way to celebrate than with a bowl of homemade No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream? Crafted with crushed candy canes, this delightful treat bursts with seasonal cheer—perfectly creamy and refreshingly minty. One of the best parts? You don’t need an ice cream maker, so it’s wonderfully easy and quick to prepare. Imagine surprising your family and friends with this simple yet impressive dessert, all while giving your taste buds a merry little dance. Are you ready to indulge in the sweetest taste of the holidays?

Why is No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream a Must-Try?

Effortless Preparation: With no ice cream maker needed, you can whip this up in minutes for a stress-free dessert.

Festive Flavor: The delightful crunch of crushed candy canes melds beautifully with creamy vanilla, making each bite a holiday celebration.

Versatile Treat: Pair it with warm brownies for an indulgent dessert, or serve it alongside your favorite holiday pastries for an extra touch of joy.

Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests and spread cheer without spending hours in the kitchen. This ice cream will be the highlight of your holiday spread!

Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the little ones involved by letting them sprinkle in the candy canes—making memories while creating a delicious dessert!

No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in this delightful treat!

For the Base

14 ounces sweetened condensed milk – Provides sweetness and creaminess; you can substitute with homemade sweetened condensed milk if desired.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth; for the best results, use pure vanilla extract.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness; feel free to use sea salt or kosher salt as alternatives.

For the Cream

2 cups heavy cream (cold) – Creates a rich, creamy texture essential for ice cream; whipping cream can also work in a pinch.

For the Mix-Ins

1/2 cup peppermint candy (crushed) – Offers delightful peppermint flavor and texture; candy canes are ideal, or use peppermint extract for a more intense flavor if desired.

Let’s dive into creating this No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream and bring some festive cheer to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream

Step 1: Chill the Pan
Start by placing a 9-inch metal loaf pan in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This essential step ensures your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream freezes properly, resulting in the perfect creamy texture. The cold pan will help to firm up the ice cream quickly, preventing unwanted ice crystals from forming.

Step 2: Combine Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until fully combined. This mixture will form the flavorful base for your ice cream, so ensure it’s smooth and free of lumps. The sweetened condensed milk offers richness, while the vanilla adds delightful depth.

Step 3: Whip Cream
In a separate bowl, pour in 2 cups of cold heavy cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape and forms peaks that don’t collapse. This whipped cream will give your ice cream its luxurious, airy texture.

Step 4: Fold Cream
Now, gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture using a spatula. This method incorporates air without deflating your whipped cream, maintaining the lightness of your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream. Once blended, fold in the remaining whipped cream until there are no streaks, creating a uniform mixture that’s both fluffy and creamy.

Step 5: Freeze
Pour the combined mixture into the chilled loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread out. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and freeze for at least 10 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best consistency. This long freeze allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a delightful dessert that’s silky and refreshingly minty.

Step 6: Add Candy
After 2 hours in the freezer, remove the pan and stir in 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candy. This step adds a fun crunch and bursts of minty flavor throughout your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream. Re-cover the pan and return it to the freezer to chill for the remaining time, ensuring that the candy is well distributed.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream treats are perfect for preparing ahead of time, saving you effort during busy holiday festivities! You can whip up the base (sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and salt) and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, just keep it well-covered to maintain its flavor. Additionally, the heavy cream can be whipped and ready up to 24 hours before serving, but for best results, keep it chilled until it’s time to combine. Once you’re ready to finish, simply fold the whipped cream into the prepared base, pour it into the chilled loaf pan, stir in the crushed candy, and freeze for at least 10 hours. With this prep strategy, you’ll enjoy creamy, minty perfection with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream?

Complement your sweet treat with these delightful options that bring together the flavors and fun of the season.

Warm Brownies: The fudgy richness pairs perfectly with the airy peppermint ice cream, creating a heavenly dessert experience. Warm, gooey brownies topped with fluffy ice cream elevate any gathering.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic cookies provide a nostalgic contrast to the refreshing mint flavor. Dip them into your ice cream for a melty masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance.
Fresh Berries: Adding a handful of tart raspberries or strawberries enhances the sweetness while providing a fresh, fruity balance. Their vibrant colors also brighten up your dessert table!
Spiced Hot Cocoa: Sipping a warm chocolate drink alongside your ice cream makes for a cozy pairing. Top the cocoa with whipped cream for a decadent touch that encapsulates winter warmth.
Peppermint Meringues: These light, airy sweets echo the peppermint flavor in the ice cream, creating a harmonious dessert experience. Their crunch complements the creamy texture, making each bite a celebration of flavor.
Candy Cane Crumble: Crushed candy canes sprinkled on top of your scoop add a festive touch and delightful crunch. This extra layer turns your dessert into a visually stunning work of art that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Dive into these treats, and let the magic of the season sweep you away!

No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe for a personal touch that will impress your loved ones!

Chocolate Mint: Swap in chocolate chips for the peppermint candy for a rich and delightful chocolate-mint twist.
Imagine every creamy bite whispering of chocolate as it dances with refreshing mint.
Oreo Cookies: Crush Oreo cookies instead of candy canes for a cookies-and-cream version.
The chocolatey cookies paired with creamy goodness create a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of childhood desserts.
Non-Dairy: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
This variation not only caters to dietary needs but also brings a lovely tropical twist to your peppermint ice cream.
Peppermint Extract: Increase the peppermint extract to 1 teaspoon for a bolder mint flavor.
This is perfect for those who can’t get enough of that refreshing taste—better get ready for a minty explosion on your palate!
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
The combination of smooth cream and crispy nuts adds a textural surprise that elevates the entire experience.
Fruit Swirl: Add a fruity swirl with pureed raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing tartness.
The vibrant color and flavor contrast with the creamy mint will make your dessert not just delicious but visually stunning too.

For more delightful recipes, check out Cream Cheese Chicken or consider pairing your peppermint ice cream with a slice of rich cake from the Pumpkin Cream Cheese recipe. Get creative and enjoy the festive flavors!

Storage Tips for No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream

Fridge: Keep your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream in the freezer for maximum freshness; it’s best consumed within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezer: Store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain that creamy consistency and delicious minty taste!

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat ice cream; simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften it.

Serving: Scoop your ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. If storing leftovers, ensure it’s covered tightly to keep it fresh for future indulgences!

Tips for the Best No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream

Prevent Ice Crystals: Mixing well before freezing helps avoid unwanted ice crystals, ensuring a smooth and creamy No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream.

Correct Whipping: Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks; this step is crucial for achieving that desired light, fluffy texture.

Flavor Boost: If you crave more peppermint flavor, consider adding a drop or two of peppermint extract to enhance the minty taste without overwhelming the base.

Chill the Bowl: For extra fluffiness, chill your mixing bowl before whipping the heavy cream—this minor trick can make a big difference in volume!

Storage Wisely: Store your ice cream in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture. Consume within a month for the best experience!

No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best peppermint candy for my ice cream?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint candy, look for candy canes that are vibrant and free of cracks. Avoid any with dark spots or a dull appearance, as these may indicate staleness. If you prefer a more intense peppermint flavor, consider using peppermint extract in place of candy.

How should I store leftover No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream?
To maintain its frosty goodness, store your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best to consume it within 1 month to enjoy optimal flavor and texture. Make sure to seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream for later use?
Definitely! You can freeze your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to indulge again, transfer it to the fridge for about 10 minutes to soften before scooping.

What should I do if my ice cream turns icy instead of creamy?
Very! If your ice cream has developed icy crystals, it likely hasn’t been mixed thoroughly before freezing or wasn’t whipped to stiff peaks. To troubleshoot, next time whip the cream until stiff peaks form, and mix it well with the condensed milk base to incorporate as much air as possible before freezing. That should keep it nice and creamy!

Is this recipe suitable for children and those with allergies?
Absolutely! However, be aware of the ingredients in your peppermint candy, as they may contain allergens like nuts or gluten. If you’re making this for young children, closely supervise them while they help fold in the candy—they’ll love the sweet task of mixing in holiday cheer!

Can I make variations of this No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream recipe?
Very yes! You can easily customize your No-Churn Peppermint Ice Cream by substituting the crushed peppermint candy with chocolate chips for a delightful chocolate-mint twist or crushed Oreo cookies for a fun cookies-and-cream version. The more the merrier!