Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Imagine a dessert that embodies the essence of childhood nostalgia and indulgence – Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. This creamy delight is a delightful swirl of sweet, velvety ice cream infused with the crunch of classic Oreo cookies. It’s one of those recipes that transports you back to carefree summer days, making it absolutely worthwhile to whip up. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic treat for kids and adults alike, promising pure bliss with each scoop.
What’s Your Favorite Ice Cream Flavor?
Think back to those blissful days of summer when the sun was shining, and the ice cream truck’s jingle could be heard from blocks away. What was your go-to flavor? Was it something indulgent and rich like Cookies and Cream? Maybe that classic combination of creamy vanilla and sweet, chocolatey cookies holds a special place within your heart! This recipe serves up just that nostalgic flavor, making it the perfect reason to bring back those sweet memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream recipe quickly becomes a family favorite, and for good reason. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, meaning you won’t have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen.
Secondly, with just a few simple steps, you’ll create a rich and satisfying treat that everyone will enjoy. It’s also very versatile—imagine serving it at a birthday party, family gathering, or just for a weeknight treat. Lastly, this ice cream is a true crowd-pleaser, and it’s a fantastic way to bring joy to your loved ones without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients
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2 cups heavy cream – This luscious ingredient delivers the rich, creamy base of your ice cream, providing that luxurious texture you crave.
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1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk – Just the right amount of sweetness to make your ice cream irresistibly smooth and silky.
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1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – This extract brings warmth and depth, elevating the flavors in your delightful concoction.
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22 Oreo cookies, coarsely crushed (about 2 1/4 cups, divided) – The star players! These crunchy cookies create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that takes this ice cream from ordinary to extraordinary.
Each ingredient plays an integral part in creating an enchanting symphony of flavor and texture, culminating in a dessert that is truly magical.
Timing
The beauty of this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream lies in its fast and indulgent preparation. You can mix the ingredients and have them ready to freeze in under 15 minutes. However, the wait time is where the real magic happens. You’ll need to patiently wait for at least 6 hours (or even longer) as it transforms into a creamy dream. Consider this a slow and luxurious process that only heightens the anticipation and excitement for when you finally scoop that first bite of creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step
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Whip It Good: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, in a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until it becomes foamy, which should take about 3 minutes. Picture the luscious cream transforming into a light and airy texture, perfect for your ice cream base.
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Add the Sweetness: Stream in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, continuing to mix on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes, or until softly peaked and gloriously fluffy. Just envision that rich, gooey mixture coming together in a perfect union.
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Incorporate the Cookies: Gently fold in 2 cups of the crushed Oreo cookies into the whipped mixture. The stunning contrast of the black cookie pieces against the white cream is simply delightful.
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Ready for Freezing: Transfer this decadent cream mixture into a 9-by-5 inch or 8 1/2-by-4 1/2 inch loaf pan, tapping the pan gently to release air bubbles trapped inside. Sprinkle the remaining cookie crumbs over the top, adding a visual treat that complements the taste.
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Seal the Deal: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer until it’s firm—this usually takes at least 6 hours, though it’s best enjoyed when you let it freeze overnight.
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Make Ahead Magic: If you’re planning ahead, this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream can be made up to 1 week in advance. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and keep it frozen for optimal texture.
With each step, envision the dripping, gooey ice cream that awaits you, eagerly calling out to be indulged!
Nutritional Information
Indulging in Cookies and Cream Ice Cream typically yields about 250-300 calories per serving. While it’s undoubtedly an indulgent treat, remember that treating yourself once in a while is one of life’s simple joys. It’s all about balance; enjoy this creamy delight in moderation, or share it with friends and family to brighten everyone’s day!
Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to lighten up this classic treat, consider these healthier substitutes:
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Low-sugar sweetened condensed milk: Use low-sugar options to enjoy a similar sweetness while cutting down on sugar.
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Dairy-free options: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream for a delightful non-dairy version, perfect for those lactose intolerant or vegan.
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Using alternative cookies: Gluten-free Oreos or healthier cookie options can create a delicious, guilt-free spin on this much-loved ice cream.
There are always ways to enjoy desserts by making small adjustments!
Serving Suggestions
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy it in a classic bowl, topped with whipped cream and extra cookie crumbles for that extra indulgent touch.
Consider serving it alongside warm brownies or chocolate cake for a heavenly dessert experience. This ice cream also shines at parties, making it a star of holiday dinners or summer gatherings!
Common Mistakes
While making your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream can be a delightful experience, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
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Overwhipping the cream: This can lead to a grainy texture rather than that luscious smoothness you desire. Stop once you have soft peaks!
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Not incorporating the cookies evenly: Folding gently is key to ensure every scoop has that delicious cookie crunch.
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Leaving it out too long: If your ice cream starts to melt during scooping, you might lose that delightful texture. Keep it stored neatly in the freezer until you’re ready to serve!
Storing Tips
To keep your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream in its prime, please follow these storage tips:
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Freezing Portions: Use an airtight container to freeze individual portions, making it easy to grab a scoop whenever that sweet tooth strikes.
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Reheating Instructions: Before serving, if it’s a little too frozen, let it sit out on the counter for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. This will help restore that creamy texture, essential for the perfect scoop!
Tempting You to Make it ASAP
If you’re in the mood for something creamy, indulgent, and filled with sweet memories, then this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream should be on your to-do list—it promises to become a beloved recipe in your home! The blend of rich flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that your family will adore. So grab your ingredients and make this nostalgic treat today!
FAQs
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Can I use other types of cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cookie varieties for unique flavors. -
How long can I store Cookies and Cream Ice Cream?
This treat can stay in the freezer for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container. -
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can use gluten-free Oreos or another gluten-free cookie to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. -
Can I make it without an electric mixer?
While an electric mixer makes it easier, you can still whip the cream by hand—just be prepared for a workout! -
Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add some chocolate chunks, nuts, or swirls of fudge for an even richer dessert experience.
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy delight of sweet ice cream infused with crunchy Oreo cookies, capturing the essence of childhood nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 22 Oreo cookies, coarsely crushed (about 2 1/4 cups, divided)
Instructions
- Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, in a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until foamy, about 3 minutes.
- Stream in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing for another 2 minutes until softly peaked.
- Gently fold in 2 cups of the crushed Oreo cookies into the whipped mixture.
- Transfer the cream mixture into a loaf pan, tapping gently to release air bubbles, and sprinkle remaining cookie crumbs on top.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and freeze until firm, at least 6 hours or overnight.
Notes
Enjoy in moderation or share with friends and family. Can be made 1 week in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
