Easy Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Recipe
Cookies and cream ice cream is a timeless dessert loved by people of all ages. The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and crunchy chocolate sandwich cookies creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It is one of the most popular ice cream flavors worldwide, offering a satisfying mix of sweetness and crunch in every bite. While store-bought versions are convenient, making it at home brings out a fresher, richer taste with high-quality ingredients and endless customization options.
Homemade cookies and cream ice cream allows you to control the level of sweetness, the quality of dairy, and the amount of cookie pieces in every scoop. Whether you prefer large chunks of cookies for extra crunch or a smooth base with finely crushed bits, you can adjust the recipe to match your preference. Additionally, homemade ice cream is free from artificial preservatives and additives, making it a better and healthier option compared to commercial brands. With both churn and no-churn methods available, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress even the most experienced dessert lovers.
In this guide, you will discover how to make the best cookies and cream ice cream from scratch. From a carefully selected list of ingredients to step-by-step preparation instructions, you will learn how to achieve the perfect creamy consistency with just the right amount of crunch. You will also find useful tips to enhance the flavor, ideas for creative toppings, and the best pairings to elevate your ice cream experience. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a craving, this homemade cookies and cream ice cream recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Why You Need this Recipe
Cookies and cream ice cream is a timeless favorite that blends rich, creamy vanilla with crunchy chocolate cookies for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Making it at home gives you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a fresher and more flavorful version than store-bought options. You can adjust the level of sweetness, add extra cookies for a more intense flavor, or even experiment with different cookie varieties to create a unique twist on this beloved classic.
This recipe is designed to be simple and beginner-friendly, whether you use an ice cream maker or opt for a no-churn method. With just a few basic ingredients, you can achieve a smooth, creamy texture and the perfect distribution of crunchy cookie pieces. It is a great way to impress family and friends with a homemade dessert that tastes just as good, if not better, than what you find in stores.
Homemade ice cream is also free from unnecessary preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier treat without sacrificing flavor. You can get creative by adding chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or a hint of coffee for an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you are preparing it for a summer gathering, a cozy night in, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cookies and cream ice cream recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Here is a well-structured table with the ingredients and their approximate calorie count per serving. The calorie values may vary based on the brands and specific ingredients used.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | 820 |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | 150 |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | 580 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | 24 |
| Oreo cookies (or similar) | 10-12 cookies | 530 |
| Egg yolks (optional) | 3 yolks | 165 |
How to Prepare
Making cookies and cream ice cream at home is simple and rewarding. Start by combining heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. For a custard-style base, whisk egg yolks separately, temper them with warm milk, then cook the mixture on low heat until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool completely.
Once cooled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker until thick and creamy. For a no-churn version, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract for a smooth, airy texture. Meanwhile, crush chocolate sandwich cookies into bite-sized chunks, keeping some larger pieces for added crunch.
After churning, gently fold in the crushed cookies, ensuring they remain crisp. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least four to six hours. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. Enjoy your homemade cookies and cream ice cream in a bowl, cone, or as a delicious dessert topping.
Pro Tips
For the best cookies and cream ice cream, use high-quality ingredients. Full-fat dairy ensures a rich texture, while real vanilla extract enhances flavor. Choose fresh chocolate sandwich cookies for the perfect balance of crunch and softness. For a stronger cookie taste, use double-stuffed cookies or mix in finely crushed crumbs.
Chill your ice cream base thoroughly before churning to achieve a smooth consistency and prevent ice crystals. In no-churn versions, avoid overwhipping the cream to maintain a light texture. Fold in cookies gently to keep their crunch and prevent sogginess.
Enhance your ice cream with mix-ins like chocolate syrup, caramel swirls, or sea salt. Experiment with different cookies for unique variations. Store in an airtight container with plastic wrap on top to prevent freezer burn. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for the best scoopable texture..
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
Cookies and cream ice cream is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors can make it even better. A warm brownie or a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie creates a perfect contrast of temperatures and textures. Drizzling hot fudge or caramel sauce over your ice cream adds a rich sweetness that enhances its flavor.
For extra crunch, try toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate chips, white chocolate shavings, or cookie crumbles. If you prefer a refreshing twist, fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas balance the richness with a burst of natural sweetness.
You can also get creative by blending it into a milkshake, layering it in a parfait with whipped cream and cookie crumbles, or making an ice cream sandwich with chocolate cookies or brownies. No matter how you serve it, the right pairings and toppings will elevate your homemade cookies and cream ice cream into an unforgettable treat.
Conclusion
Homemade cookies and cream ice cream is a treat worth making, offering a perfect balance of creamy vanilla and crunchy chocolate cookies. With the ability to control ingredients and customize flavors, this recipe provides a fresher, richer taste than store-bought versions. Whether you choose the traditional churn method or a simple no-churn alternative, the process is easy and rewarding, resulting in a smooth, indulgent dessert that everyone will love. Beyond its delicious taste, this ice cream is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with a variety of desserts, toppings, and creative serving ideas, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed in a cone, a bowl, or as part of a decadent sundae, cookies and cream ice cream remains a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
By following the right techniques and pro tips, you can achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time. Experimenting with different mix-ins, toppings, and serving ideas makes this classic recipe even more enjoyable. Once you try making it at home, you may never want to go back to store-bought versions again. So, grab your ingredients, start churning, and enjoy a homemade batch of cookies and cream ice cream that is sure to impress.
