Cookies and Cream Fudge Ripple Ice Cream

      Tessa’s Recipe Overview

      Taste: An amplified version of everything you adore about an Oreo cookie, intensified by 100 times.

      Texture: The standout feature is the luxurious blend of textures. Creamy ice cream with rich fudge swirls, all mixed with softened Oreo cookies (imagine a milk-soaked Oreo consistency).

      Ease: The base is blended together, while the fudge swirl can be prepared in just a few minutes on the stove. The most challenging part is waiting for the ice cream to freeze before enjoying it!

      Why you’ll appreciate this recipe: Quite possibly the finest homemade ice cream you'll ever taste (no exaggeration).

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      I have authored a cookbook focused on ice cream sandwiches and another dedicated to cookie baking, so I feel particularly qualified to declare this recipe as the ABSOLUTE BEST Cookies & Cream Ice Cream you will ever experience.

      But don’t just take my word for it. Jess, the photographer who captured this recipe, texted me during the process, saying, “I have to tell you this is the best ice cream I’ve ever had. Store-bought, homemade, ice cream parlor, or otherwise! WOW, amazing job!”

      One of my recipe testers shared in her feedback, “I paired the ice cream with warm slices of Chewy Brownies that I microwaved for 20 seconds, creating an EPIC gooey brownie sundae.” I fully endorse this idea!

      Free Cookie Customization Guide!

      A science-based guide to ensure you bake perfect cookies every time!

      For me, ice cream needs a contrast of textures. Including mix-ins, toppings, or serving it as a sundae or sandwich is essential for creating an enjoyable mouthfeel that highlights all the flavors. This recipe excels in that aspect.

      Texture is also why I’m (not-so-modestly) obsessed with my Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream and Cookie Dough Ice Cream recipes. The latter features HUGE chunks of homemade edible cookie dough!

      If you're hesitant about making ice cream from scratch, don't fret. The section below includes ALL the tips you need to nearly guarantee success.

      A Touch of Science

      How to Make Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

      Essential Ingredients for Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

      Cream Cheese – A half block of full-fat cream cheese contributes a rich, creamy texture and enhances the classic Oreo filling flavor. Avoid using reduced-fat, spreadable, or whipped cream cheese intended for bagels, as these won't provide the proper consistency.

      Heavy cream – Aim for cream with approximately 36% fat for optimal smoothness and creaminess.

      Whole milk – Do not substitute with lower-fat milk, as it will result in a more icy and less creamy ice cream.

      Corn syrup – Just a tablespoon helps maintain a softer and creamier texture in the freezer. It's important to note that corn syrup (like Karo) is not the same as high-fructose corn syrup; they are different. You may omit this ingredient if needed, but the ice cream might be a bit harder.

      Oreos – Use whole Oreos (don’t remove the filling!). This recipe is designed for regular-stuffed Oreos; however, if you opt for Double Stuf’d, the ice cream maker will be quite full. Use a spatula to gently mix them in during the last minute of churning, if necessary.

      The Best Ice Cream Maker

      I have a Cuisinart ice cream machine that I’ve owned for over ten years and used extensively to write a cookbook about ice cream, so you can imagine how much I rely on it. I prefer it over the KitchenAid attachment.

      If you’re using a similar machine, make sure that the freezer bowl is COMPLETELY frozen before churning—otherwise, you'll end up with a soupy mixture. When you shake the freezer bowl, it should not slosh with liquid. Additionally, ensure your ice cream mixture is chilled before adding it to the machine.

      If you’re utilizing a self-freezing machine, you don’t need to worry about pre-freezing the bowl.

      How Long Does Ice Cream Take to Churn?

      The time varies based on your ice cream maker. Factors like brand, motor, style, capacity, and age can influence it. New machines may churn in as little as 15 minutes, while older models could take around 25 minutes. Always follow your machine's instructions and check frequently.

      Homemade ice cream is ready when a spoonful remains on your spoon without melting or sliding off quickly.

      Can I Make This Recipe Without an Ice Cream Maker?

      While an ice cream maker yields the smoothest and creamiest results, you can use Methods #2, #3, or #4 from my How to Make Ice Cream Without a Machine guide if you lack an ice cream maker!

      How to Store Homemade Ice Cream:

      Keep it in an airtight container in a consistent temperature zone of your freezer (preferably not in the door). To avoid freezer burn, press plastic wrap