Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake (Printable)
A stunning layered dessert with chocolate cookie crust, mint ice cream, and silky chocolate ganache—ideal for summer celebrations.
# What's Needed:
→ Crust
01 - 2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Ice Cream Layer
03 - 1.5 quarts mint chocolate chip ice cream, slightly softened
→ Chocolate Ganache
04 - 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
05 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Garnish
07 - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
08 - Fresh mint leaves
# How to Make It:
01 - Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
02 - Combine crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
03 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust. Freeze for 20 minutes.
04 - Allow the mint chocolate chip ice cream to soften at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
05 - Spread the softened ice cream evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
06 - Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips and butter. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
07 - Pour the cooled ganache over the frozen ice cream layer, spreading evenly. Freeze for at least 2 more hours until set.
08 - Garnish with mini chocolate chips and fresh mint leaves if desired. To slice, run a knife under hot water and dry before cutting.
# Tips for Success:
01 -
- The contrast between the crunchy cookie base and creamy mint ice cream creates this perfect textural balance that store-bought desserts just cant match.
- You can prepare this days ahead of your gathering, which means youll actually get to enjoy your own party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
02 -
- If your ganache seizes or becomes grainy, whisk in a tablespoon of warm heavy cream to rescue it before pouring over the cake.
- Removing the cake from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving makes it much easier to slice through the frozen layers.
03 -
- After pouring the ganache, gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles trapped between the ice cream and chocolate layers.
- For a more sophisticated presentation, freeze the cake without the ganache, then add it just before serving so it remains slightly soft against the frozen ice cream.