This Homemade Peppermint Stick Ice Cream is a creamy, refreshing frozen dessert loaded with crunchy candy cane pieces and cool peppermint flavor. Every scoop delivers the perfect holiday-inspired balance of silky vanilla ice cream and sweet peppermint candy crunch. The light pink color and festive flavor make it one of the most popular homemade Christmas desserts for winter gatherings and cozy celebrations.
Peppermint stick ice cream has long been a classic seasonal dessert made with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies blended into rich homemade ice cream bases. Traditional recipes often combine heavy cream, milk, vanilla, and peppermint extract to create a smooth texture with refreshing minty sweetness. Many homemade versions also use crushed candy canes to add both flavor and crunch, creating the iconic holiday dessert appearance and taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- Red food coloring (optional)
Equipments
- Ice cream maker
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Silicone spatula
- Fine mesh strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight freezer container
- Kitchen thermometer
- Food processor or rolling pin
Instructions
- Freeze the ice cream maker bowl according to manufacturer instructions.
- Crush the candy canes into small chunks and powder.
- In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and salt.
- Heat gently over medium heat until steaming.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth.
- Slowly pour warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
- Continue tempering the eggs carefully.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat while stirring continuously.
- Stir until the custard thickens and coats the spoon.
- Remove from heat immediately.
- Stir in vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
- Add condensed milk for extra creaminess.
- Add a tiny drop of red food coloring if desired.
- Strain the custard through a fine mesh strainer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Pour chilled mixture into the ice cream maker.
- Churn until thick and creamy.
- Add crushed candy canes during the final few minutes of churning.
- Transfer ice cream to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for 3 to 4 hours until firm.
- Scoop and serve cold.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Cool peppermint flavor
- Creamy vanilla custard base
- Sweet candy cane crunch
- Refreshing holiday dessert taste
- Smooth and rich texture
Tips for Best Results
- Use peppermint extract, not mint extract
- Chill the custard completely before churning
- Add candy canes near the end of churning
- Use full-fat dairy for creamier texture
- Freeze overnight for firmer scoops
- Do not overheat the custard
Variations & Substitutions
- Add mini chocolate chips
- Swirl in hot fudge sauce
- Use crushed peppermint candies
- Make a no-churn version
- Add white chocolate chunks
- Use candy cane pieces for topping
Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding too much peppermint extract
- Using warm base in the ice cream maker
- Overcooking the custard
- Adding candy too early
- Skipping the chilling process
- Using low-fat dairy products
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot fudge sauce
- Top with extra crushed candy canes
- Pair with brownies
- Add whipped cream
- Serve in waffle cones
- Garnish with peppermint sticks
Storage Tips
- Store in airtight freezer containers
- Freeze for up to 2 weeks
- Cover surface with plastic wrap
- Keep away from freezer door
- Allow slight thawing before scooping
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Christmas dessert
- Creamy homemade texture
- Refreshing peppermint flavor
- Easy holiday treat
- Beautiful festive appearance
- Better than store-bought ice cream
- Great for parties and celebrations
- Kid-friendly and fun
How to Serve
- Scoop into chilled bowls
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce
- Pair with holiday cookies
- Serve with warm brownies
- Add festive dessert toppings
FAQs
What is Peppermint Stick Ice Cream?
It is a creamy peppermint-flavored ice cream mixed with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint candies?
Yes, candy canes work perfectly and are traditionally used in peppermint stick ice cream recipes.
Can I make it without an ice cream maker?
Yes, no-churn peppermint ice cream versions are very popular and easy to make.
Why is my peppermint ice cream icy?
Improper chilling or low-fat ingredients can cause an icy texture.
How much peppermint extract should I use?
Use carefully because peppermint extract is very strong.
Can I add chocolate to peppermint ice cream?
Yes, chocolate chips or fudge swirls pair perfectly with peppermint.
How long does homemade peppermint ice cream last?
It stays fresh for about 2 weeks when stored properly.
Can I make it pink naturally?
Yes, crushed candy canes often create a light pink tint naturally.
What toppings go best with peppermint ice cream?
Hot fudge, whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and brownies work beautifully.
Is peppermint stick ice cream only for Christmas?
No, it can be enjoyed year-round, though it’s most popular during the holidays.
