Peppermint Frozen Dessert
A refreshing peppermint frozen dessert with a creamy texture and crunchy peppermint candies, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cool treat for peppermint lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup of water in a 1-quart saucepan to soften.
- Stir in sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until dissolved, but do not boil.
- Remove from heat. In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle milk powder over remaining 3 cups of water.
- Beat at low speed of an electric mixer, adding corn oil, corn syrup, the gelatin mixture, vanilla, and salt.
- Chill the mixture for about 1 hour.
- Freeze in an electric or hand-crank freezer following manufacturer's directions.
- When partially frozen, add 1/3 cup of crushed peppermint candy and continue freezing.
- Stir in the remaining peppermint candy before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a creamier texture, consider using full-fat milk instead of nonfat dry milk. If you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to half a cup. For a festive twist, you can substitute crushed chocolate mint candies for the peppermint candy. Make sure to mix well after adding any substitutions to ensure even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peppermint frozen dessert in chilled bowls or cups for an extra refreshing touch. Garnish with additional crushed peppermint candy or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This dessert pairs beautifully with hot beverages like coffee or cocoa, making it a perfect end to a meal or a festive treat during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, let the dessert sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid using a microwave, as it can alter the texture and consistency of the frozen dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Frozen Dessert contains roughly 184 calories, with 0g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 877mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peppermint instead of crushed peppermint candy?
While fresh peppermint can add a wonderful flavor, it does not provide the same crunchy texture as crushed peppermint candy. You can use fresh peppermint for a more herbal taste, but for the signature peppermint crunch, stick with the candy.
How long can I keep this frozen dessert in the freezer?
The peppermint frozen dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume it within a month. After that, it may start to lose its creaminess and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this peppermint frozen dessert is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients. However, always check the gelatin source if you have specific dietary restrictions, as some gelatins can be derived from fish or beef.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).