Creamy cookies and cream ice cream with crushed Oreos—easy homemade recipe for classic Oreo ice cream lovers.
1. Introduction to the Recipe
There’s something truly irresistible about cookies and cream ice cream, especially when it’s homemade with rich cream, real vanilla, and generous chunks of crunchy Oreo cookies. This classic dessert combines creamy smoothness with the perfect crunch and chocolatey flavor of sandwich cookies, making it a favorite among all ages.
This Oreo ice cream recipe uses simple ingredients—whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and coarsely crushed Oreos—to deliver a luscious treat that beats store-bought versions in both texture and freshness. Chilling the milk and cream before mixing helps achieve a creamier consistency and speeds up the freezing process, while the quality vanilla extract adds an aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the chocolate cookie bits.
Whether you have an ice cream maker or want to try no-churn methods, this recipe provides a straightforward guide to make the classic cookies and cream flavor at home. Pair it with your favorite desserts like brownies, pies, or enjoy it solo for a refreshing treat on warm days.
For more tips on perfect ice cream texture, check out how to make creamy ice cream and for creative Oreo desserts, visit Oreo recipes ideas. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to dessert for parties and celebrations.
2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Description
Creamy cookies and cream ice cream with crushed Oreos—easy homemade recipe for classic Oreo ice cream lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk, chilled
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 2 teaspoons quality pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups coarsely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
Instructions
- Combine milk and sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chilled whole milk and granulated sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. - Add cream and vanilla
Stir in the chilled heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated. - Chill the mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to ensure the base is cold, which helps with churning. - Churn the ice cream
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20–25 minutes, until it reaches soft-serve consistency. - Add crushed Oreos
During the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add the crushed Oreos to evenly distribute cookie pieces without overmixing. - Freeze for firmness
Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for a firmer texture.
Notes
Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Coarse cookie pieces add a great texture contrast—avoid crushing Oreos too finely.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes until frozen to mimic the texture.
Keywords: Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
3. Advanced Techniques
Using Custard Base for Richer Texture
For an ultra-creamy and custard-like ice cream, replace part of the milk with egg yolks to make a custard base. Gently cook egg yolks, sugar, and milk to 170°F before cooling and folding in cream. This technique increases fat content and smoothness.
Enhancing Cookie Distribution
To prevent Oreos from sinking or clumping, add crushed cookies near the end of churning. For extra crunch, toast cookie pieces lightly before mixing in. You can also fold in whole cookie halves for an impressive presentation.
Chilling Ingredients Thoroughly
Chilling milk, cream, and even the mixing bowl ensures faster freezing and smaller ice crystals, which improves texture. Try refrigerating ingredients overnight and chilling your ice cream maker bowl before use.
No-Churn Method Adaptation
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks separately, then fold it gently into the sweetened milk mixture and crushed cookies. Freeze in a shallow container, stirring occasionally, for homemade no-churn ice cream.
Balancing Sweetness and Flavor
Adjust sugar to taste, especially if your cookies are extra sweet or you prefer less sugar. Adding a pinch of salt can balance sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
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4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Proper Freezing for Texture Preservation
Store ice cream in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for up to 2 weeks for best quality.
Avoiding Ice Crystals
Allow ice cream to soften slightly before scooping. Avoid frequent thawing and refreezing which causes ice crystals and grainy texture.
Thawing and Serving Tips
Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping for easier serving and optimal creaminess.
Transporting Ice Cream Safely
Use a cooler with ice packs when transporting homemade ice cream to maintain temperature and prevent melting.
Refreezing Leftovers
If melted, refreeze only if ice cream hasn’t thawed completely. Stir to redistribute ice crystals and refreeze immediately to maintain texture.
5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Dairy-Free and Vegan Version
Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk creamers. Use dairy-free vanilla extract and check cookie ingredients for vegan compliance.
Low-Sugar Option
Replace granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. Adjust sweetness carefully, as these sweeteners have different intensities.
Gluten-Free Cookies
Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for a gluten-free ice cream. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Keto-Friendly Adaptation
Swap sugar for keto-friendly sweeteners and use heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk. Choose low-carb cookies or omit them for a keto-friendly twist.
Adding Extra Mix-Ins
Incorporate nuts, chocolate chips, or swirls of fudge during the last minutes of churning for customized variations.
6. FAQs About the Recipe
Can I make cookies and cream ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Use the no-churn method by whipping heavy cream separately and folding it into the sweetened milk mixture with crushed cookies, then freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until firm.
How do I keep cookie pieces crunchy in the ice cream?
Add crushed cookies at the very end of churning to minimize sogginess. Toasting cookie pieces lightly before adding can also help preserve crunch.
What’s the best way to crush Oreos for this recipe?
Use a food processor for coarse crumbs or place cookies in a zip bag and gently crush with a rolling pin. Avoid pulverizing into powder to retain texture.
Can I use different cookies instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! Chocolate chip cookies, chocolate wafers, or any sandwich cookies can be substituted, adjusting crushing and quantity to taste.
How long will homemade ice cream stay fresh?
For best texture and flavor, consume within 2 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the freezer.
7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Making cookies and cream ice cream at home is a delightful way to enjoy a timeless dessert with a personal touch. This simple recipe combines rich, creamy dairy with crunchy, chocolatey Oreo pieces to create an indulgence that rivals any store-bought version. The flexibility in ingredients and techniques allows both beginners and seasoned home cooks to tailor the ice cream to their preferences—whether opting for a classic churned texture or an easy no-churn method.
The satisfaction of mixing the ingredients yourself and knowing exactly what goes into your ice cream is unbeatable. Plus, it offers endless opportunities for creativity, from experimenting with different cookies to adding nuts, swirls, or flavor twists.
Perfect for hot summer days, family celebrations, or just a special treat, this Oreo ice cream recipe delivers delicious comfort with every spoonful. Once you taste how creamy and flavorful homemade ice cream can be, you’ll likely make it a regular in your dessert repertoire.
Enjoy the fun and flavors of making your own cookies and cream ice cream—a recipe that brings smiles and sweet moments with every batch!