Who said you could only have ice cream in warm weather? This delicious and easy No Churn Candy Cane Ice Cream recipe is the perfect dessert for the holiday season!

Perfectly creamy homemade ice cream filled with festive crushed candy canes that’s made without an ice cream machine!

What type of mint is used in ice cream?

Normally, mint ice cream uses spearmint or peppermint to give that minty flavor. For this ice cream, I used peppermint extract, plus the crushed peppermint candy, which also adds to it.

Ingredients you’ll need for this easy Candy Cane Ice Cream recipe

You’ll need simple ingredients to make this no churn peppermint ice cream, found in any big grocery stores:

Heavy cream. This is what will make the base of your ice cream; when whipped, it introduces air and makes it creamier after frozen
Sweetened condensed milk. It will also help with the consistency and will sweeten your ice cream
Mint extract. Gives the peppermint flavor, along with the candy cane pieces
Vanilla extract. Pure vanilla extract makes a difference!
Salt. Enhances flavors
Candy canes. The star of the show! these will give color and flavor to your ice cream

Take a look at the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

How to make this homemade Peppermint Ice Cream

Start by crushing your candy canes. Place them in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. Reserve extra candy canes to use later to top your ice cream.

Over a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream at high speed until stiff peaks form. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt.

Fold in the crushed candy canes and spread them evenly throughout the ice cream. Spread your ice cream mixture in an even layer in a loaf pan or a freezable airtight container and add some extra crushed peppermint candy canes for garnish.

Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

Why is my ice cream pink?

Your ice cream could change to a pink color due to the red coloring from the peppermint sticks. When mixed with the ice cream base, the red color seeps into the white base and colors it to a light pink shade.

Expert tips for making Homemade Peppermint stick ice cream

Freeze the metal bowl and whisk attachment for 10 minutes before using them for a quicker whipping process
Beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form for a creamy texture. For a soft-serve consistency, whip the heavy cream a bit less than soft peaks. For a firmer ice cream, beat the cream until stiff peaks form
Cover your ice cream before going into the freezer to avoid ice crystals and freezer burn. If you feel your container does not seal properly, place a piece of plastic wrap between the lid and the container.
Use the ingredients called for in the recipe! full fat sweetened condensed milk and not a low fat or low sugar version. Full Fat heavy whipping cream and not any of the low-fat substitutions are key for soft and creamy ice cream.
Freeze your ice cream overnight to let it set properly before serving.
Serving ideas: serve in a small bowl with sugar cookies, Christmas cookies, or sugar cones

How long does ice cream last?

Homemade ice cream can last in the freezer for around 2 weeks if stored correctly. After that period, the texture of the ice cream could be affected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an ice cream maker?

No, this recipe is designed to be made without an ice cream maker. You only need a mixer to whip the cream and a freezer to set the ice cream.

Can I use low-fat or fat-free ingredients?

For the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to use full-fat heavy whipping cream and sweetened condensed milk. Low-fat alternatives may result in a less creamy texture.

Can I add other mix-ins to the ice cream?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or any other mix-ins you like. Just fold them into the mixture before freezing.

Can I use pre-crushed peppermint candies instead of candy canes?

Yes, pre-crushed peppermint candies can be used, but make sure they are fresh to avoid a stale taste.

Do I need to cover the ice cream while it freezes?

Yes, covering the ice cream with plastic wrap or an airtight lid will prevent ice crystals from forming and maintain a smooth texture.

Pairing ideas

You can serve this Peppermint stick ice cream recipe as is, but you can also find its perfect match, and serve it along with another delicious dessert. Here are a few ideas: