If you’re craving a delicious, homemade treat but don’t have an ice cream machine, this no-machine-required Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is the perfect solution. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s creamy, indulgent, and packed with the delightful crunch of chocolate sandwich cookies. This easy-to-make ice cream is the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Machine Needed: You don’t need an ice cream maker to make this delicious ice cream.
Simple Ingredients: Only a few basic ingredients needed for a creamy, flavorful treat.
Customizable: Adjust the amount of cookies, or even add in other mix-ins like chocolate chips or caramel swirls.
Perfect Texture: The ice cream is creamy and smooth, with crunchy cookie bits throughout for that classic cookies and cream flavor.

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream

Ingredients

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12–14 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed into pieces

(Tip: You can use more or less cookies depending on how much crunch you want in your ice cream.)

Directions

Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Combine the Milk and Vanilla: In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
Fold Everything Together: Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream.
Add the Cookies: Fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Freeze: Pour the ice cream mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm.
Serve: Once the ice cream is frozen solid, scoop it out and serve!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freezing Time: 6 hours minimum
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor and texture.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the ice cream base before freezing for a sweet twist.
Other Cookies: Try using different cookies, like chocolate chip cookies or even graham crackers, for unique flavors.

Storage

Storage: Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it’s too hard to scoop directly from the freezer.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookies?

Yes! Feel free to swap the chocolate sandwich cookies with your favorite cookie or biscuit. Oreo-type cookies work best for the traditional flavor, but you can get creative with your mix-ins.

How do I get a smooth texture without an ice cream maker?

The key to getting a smooth texture without an ice cream maker is to whip the cream properly to stiff peaks and fold in the condensed milk gently to avoid deflation. This ensures the mixture is airy and creamy once frozen.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes, you can! Try adding fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or even mashed bananas. Just make sure to fold the fruit in gently after whipping the cream and adding the condensed milk.

How do I know when the ice cream is ready?

The ice cream should be frozen solid after 6 hours of freezing. If it’s too soft, let it freeze longer before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk substitute.

Conclusion

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is the perfect dessert for those hot summer days or whenever you’re craving a sweet, indulgent treat. Made without an ice cream machine, it’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade ice cream with a classic, irresistible flavor. Enjoy it on its own or as the perfect topping for a warm brownie or pie!