The first time I made my own ice cream at home, it felt like a magical transformation happening right in my kitchen. There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a classic dessert like Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream from scratch—especially when you can create a delightful combination of cool mint and rich chocolate chips. This easy-to-make recipe not only delivers a refreshing treat that’s perfect for sweltering days, but it also offers the joy of creating a homemade dessert that rivals any store-bought version. Plus, you get all the control over quality ingredients and sweetness! Ready to impress your friends and family with this creamy delight? Let’s dive into the fun world of ice cream making!

Why Is Homemade Ice Cream Special?

Homemade Ice Cream brings together the joy of indulgence and control over ingredients. Refreshing Mint Flavor paired with rich chocolate chips creates a delightful taste sensation that will leave your taste buds dancing. Easy to Make, especially with a Ninja Creami machine, this recipe is a perfect choice for any dessert lover! You can even tailor it with variations, like adding crushed peppermint candies or experimenting with different flavor extracts. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of serving up a gorgeous scoop of your own creation—you’ll never want store-bought again!

Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base

Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture; substitute with mascarpone for a new twist.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; feel free to adjust for your preferred sweetness level.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses deep flavor; almond extract can be a delightful alternative.
Heavy Cream – Ensures a luxuriously creamy consistency; swap with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Whole Milk – Balances the richness; low-fat milk is a substitute but may change the texture.
Mint Extract – The star ingredient for that refreshing mint flavor; peppermint extract makes it even more potent.

For the Mix-Ins

Mini Chocolate Chips – Introduces a sweet crunch and richness; consider dark or vegan chips for variation.
Green Food Coloring – Optional for a fun visual touch; skip it for a more natural appearance.

With these ingredients at your fingertips, creating your very own Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is a breeze!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Step 1: Soften Cream Cheese
Begin by microwaving the cream cheese for about 10 seconds until just softened. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar and mint extract for approximately 60 seconds until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This forms the creamy base for your Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream.

Step 2: Mix Liquids
Next, gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk into the cream cheese mixture, stirring gently as you go. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring for a festive touch. Continue mixing until the sugar has dissolved completely and the mixture is fully blended—this should take another 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Freeze the Base
Now, pour the mint ice cream mixture into a Ninja Creami pint. Secure the lid firmly on the pint and place it in the freezer to freeze for a full 24 hours. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture that makes your Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream irresistible.

Step 4: Prepare for Processing
After 24 hours, take the pint out of the freezer. Remove the lid and attach the Creamerizer™ Paddle securely to the lid. Now, lock the lid onto the outer bowl of your Ninja Creami machine, ensuring it is properly positioned and ready for processing your frozen treat.

Step 5: Select Ice Cream Setting
With everything in place, it’s time to select the ICE CREAM setting on the Ninja Creami. Start the machine and watch as the paddle spins to transform your frozen mixture into a smooth, creamy consistency. This process should take about 2–3 minutes, resulting in a delightful soft-serve texture.

Step 6: Add Mix-Ins
Once the initial ice cream process is complete, create a hole in the center of your ice cream using a spoon. Sprinkle in the mini chocolate chips, allowing them to nestle evenly within the creamy base. Then, select the MIX-IN program on your Ninja Creami machine to integrate the chocolate chips smoothly throughout the ice cream.

Step 7: Serve
Finally, remove the ice cream from the pint using a scoop or spatula. Serve immediately in waffle cones or bowls, and feel free to top with extra chocolate chips or fresh mint leaves for garnish. Indulge in your homemade Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream and enjoy the delightful flavors of this refreshing treat!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love that you can prepare the base for Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream up to 24 hours in advance! To do this, simply mix the softened cream cheese with sugar and mint extract, followed by the heavy cream and whole milk. Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint, securely cover it, and freeze it overnight. This prep ahead tip ensures you have a delicious ice cream base ready for a quick serve on hot summer days. When you’re ready to indulge, just remove the pint from the freezer, process it with your Ninja Creami machine, add mini chocolate chips, and enjoy the homemade treat that’s just as delightful as if made fresh!

Storage Tips for Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Fridge: Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days. However, refrigerating will change the texture, so it’s best enjoyed frozen.

Freezer: For optimal texture and flavor, keep the Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream sealed in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Airtight Container: Always use an airtight container to minimize ice crystals, ensuring each scoop remains creamy and delicious.

Reheating: If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before scooping to achieve that perfect creamy texture again.

What to Serve with Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Indulge in the bliss of a homemade dessert experience, perfectly complemented with delightful pairings that enhance every scoop.

Waffle Cones: The crispness of waffle cones contrasts beautifully with the creamy mint ice cream, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or raspberries add a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the ice cream and creating a refreshing flavor combo.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the chilly ice cream adds an extra layer of richness, melting harmoniously against the cool treat.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a fluffy element, complementing the minty base while adding a decadent texture that elevates each bite.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only enhance the visual appeal but also intensify the mint flavor, making every scoop more aromatic and inviting.
Peanut Butter Cookies: The chewy, nutty texture contrasts delightfully with the smooth ice cream, creating a rich treat that brings joy to any dessert spread.
Iced Mint Tea: A refreshing glass of iced mint tea complements the dessert’s flavors, creating a soothing experience that cools you down on warm days.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies serve as the perfect pairing, offering a delightful juxtaposition of flavors and textures.

Expert Tips for Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Soften Cream Cheese Fully: Ensure cream cheese is soft to avoid lumps. A brief microwave zap helps achieve a smooth, creamy base.
Freeze for 24 Hours: Plan ahead! Freezing the mixture for a full day creates the ideal texture for your Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream—don’t rush this step!
Mix-Ins Placement: Make a neat hole in the center before adding mini chocolate chips. This ensures even distribution without spilling over the MAX FILL line.
Taste as You Go: Feel free to taste the mixture before freezing, adjusting the sweetness or mint flavor to match your preference for maximum enjoyment!
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different extracts or mix-ins, like crushed peppermint candies, to create unique spins on the classic mint chocolate chip flavor.

Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this already delightful recipe with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream and use almond milk for a creamy non-dairy version.
Add Crunch: Mix in crushed peppermint candies for an additional texture and a burst of minty flavor that will wow your friends.
Nutty Twist: Swap half of the mini chocolate chips with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added health benefits.
Flavor Fusion: Use coconut or lemon extract instead of mint to create a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
Vegan Delight: Replace heavy cream and whole milk with oat milk and incorporate maple syrup for a luscious, plant-based treat.
Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chunks instead of mini chocolate chips for a richer, deeper flavor that chocolate lovers crave.
Sassy Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that brings a new dimension to your mint chocolate experience.

If you’re in the mood for other delicious desserts, you might also enjoy making Dark Chocolate Raspberry or even some decadent Fudgy Chocolate Brownies. Don’t hesitate to experiment; the world of flavor is yours to explore!

Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For peak flavor in your Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, opt for fresh cream cheese, heavy cream, and high-quality chocolate chips. The cream cheese should be soft and free of dark spots. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist!

What’s the best way to store Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream?
To preserve the delightful texture and flavor, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps your ice cream creamy. Remember to use a container with a tight seal to minimize air exposure!

Can I freeze the ice cream base before processing?
Yes! If you want to prepare your ice cream base ahead of time, you certainly can. Just remember to freeze the mixture in the Ninja Creami pint for at least 24 hours. When you’re ready, follow the usual processing instructions for a fresh and delicious treat!

What if the ice cream is too hard to scoop?
Very! If your Ninja Creami Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream turns out too hard after freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This will soften the outer layer enough to scoop easily. You can also place it in the fridge for a few minutes if you want it to soften more gradually.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with mini chocolate chips, especially if you’re using dark or vegan varieties as substitutes. Additionally, this recipe can be adapted for lower-calorie options by using reduced-fat cream cheese or sugar substitutes. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How can I achieve the perfect mint flavor?
The key to the vibrant mint flavor is the mint extract! I recommend starting with a small amount, around 1 teaspoon, and adjusting to your taste. Using peppermint extract instead will give it a more intense minty kick if you’re a true mint lover. Remember, the goal is to have a refreshing but balanced flavor without overpowering sweetness!