Cookie Monster Ice Cream
There’s something undeniably magical about a scoop of Cookie Monster Ice Cream. Bright blue, swirled with chunks of chocolate chip cookies and chocolate sandwich cookies, it’s like diving spoon-first into childhood nostalgia. The creamy sweetness, the crunch of cookies, and that whimsical color all come together to create a dessert that feels playful, indulgent, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, you’re going to love this from the very first bite.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe was born from the joy of turning a beloved character into a fun, edible treat. Inspired by Cookie Monster’s endless love for cookies, it became a staple in ice cream parlors across the U.S. for its quirky appearance and delightful flavor. Making it at home captures that same excitement, especially when you fold in generous chunks of cookies and watch that signature blue hue swirl into the cream.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Cookie Monster Ice Cream doesn’t have centuries of history like classic gelato or sorbet, but it has earned its own place in pop culture. Originating as a novelty flavor in American ice cream shops, it quickly spread for its kid-friendly appeal and Instagram-worthy look. While no one can pin down the exact inventor, its popularity soared in the late 1990s and early 2000s when themed ice creams became trendy. Today, it’s a nostalgic favorite for both kids and adults.
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Cookie Monster Ice Cream
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bright blue no-churn ice cream swirled with generous chunks of chocolate chip cookies and chocolate sandwich cookies, creamy, playful, and irresistibly nostalgic.
Ingredients
- Heavy whipping cream: 2 cups
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can (14 ounces)
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- Blue food coloring: 6–8 drops
- Chocolate chip cookies, roughly chopped: 1 cup
- Chocolate sandwich cookies, roughly chopped: 1 cup
Instructions
- Pre-chill your tools: Place the mixing bowl and whisk or beaters in the refrigerator for 15 minutes so everything stays cold.
- Whip the cream: Add heavy whipping cream to the chilled bowl and whip until soft peaks form. Do not overwhip.
- Make the base: Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Tint to blue: Add 4 drops of blue food coloring, fold, then add more drop by drop until you reach your desired Cookie Monster shade.
- Prepare the pan: Line a loaf pan or freezer-safe container with plastic wrap or ensure it has a tight-fitting lid.
- Fold in cookies: Gently fold in the chopped chocolate chip cookies and chocolate sandwich cookies, reserving a small handful for the top.
- Freeze: Scrape the mixture into the container, smooth the top, sprinkle remaining cookie pieces, cover, and freeze 4–6 hours or overnight until scoopable.
Notes
- Tip: Soft peaks give the creamiest texture, stiff peaks can make the ice cream grainy.
- Color control: Start with fewer drops of food coloring and build gradually.
- Faster freeze: Use a shallow container to reduce freezing time.
- Serving: Let the tub sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-churn, Freezer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: Cookie Monster Ice Cream, no-churn ice cream, blue ice cream, kid-friendly dessert, homemade ice cream, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate sandwich cookies
Why You’ll Love Cookie Monster Ice Cream
This ice cream isn’t just tasty, it’s a showstopper. Here’s why it will win over your heart (and your taste buds):
Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or just because you deserve a sweet treat.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that don’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: The no-churn method means minimal effort and maximum reward.
Customizable: Play with cookie varieties or add fun mix-ins like sprinkles.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its bold color and cookie chunks make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and let it freeze until ready to serve.
Great for Leftovers: Store it for a few weeks and enjoy a scoop whenever cravings hit.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
To get the best batch every time, keep these tricks in mind:
- Use cold heavy cream for easier whipping and a lighter texture.
- Gently fold the cookies into the mixture to keep big chunks intact.
- Start with a few drops of food coloring and build up slowly for that perfect Cookie Monster blue.
- Freeze the ice cream in a shallow container for quicker setting.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
A few simple tools will make this recipe a breeze:
Mixing Bowls: For whipping cream and combining ingredients.
Electric Mixer or Whisk: To whip the heavy cream into soft peaks.
Rubber Spatula: For folding in cookies without overmixing.
Loaf Pan or Freezer-Safe Dish: Ideal for freezing and scooping.
Plastic Wrap or Lid: To cover the ice cream and prevent freezer burn.
Ingredients in Cookie Monster Ice Cream
Every ingredient works together to create a fun, creamy, and crunchy dessert:
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups (Creates a rich and fluffy base.)
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 ounces) (Adds sweetness and smooth texture.)
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons (Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.)
- Blue Food Coloring: 6–8 drops (Gives the iconic Cookie Monster color.)
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: 1 cup, roughly chopped (Adds chewy and chocolatey bites.)
- Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: 1 cup, roughly chopped (Brings crunch and contrast.)
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you need to improvise, and this recipe allows it:
Heavy Whipping Cream: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Try sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Vanilla Extract: Almond extract for a nutty twist.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace with mini chocolate chips for smoother texture.
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Use gluten-free sandwich cookies if needed.
Ingredient Spotlight
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the backbone of no-churn ice cream, giving it both sweetness and that luscious creamy consistency.
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: They add both crunch and flavor, creating little pockets of chocolatey surprise in every scoop.

Instructions for Making Cookie Monster Ice Cream
Now comes the fun part—bringing this playful dessert to life.
- Preheat Your Equipment: Place your mixing bowl and whisk in the fridge for 15 minutes to keep everything chilled.
- Combine Ingredients: Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and food coloring.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Line your loaf pan or freezer-safe dish with plastic wrap for easy removal later.
- Assemble the Dish: Fold in chopped cookies gently, making sure they’re evenly distributed without overmixing.
- Cook to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Finishing Touches: Sprinkle extra cookie pieces on top for visual appeal and crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Freeze for at least 4–6 hours or overnight, then scoop and serve with a smile.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
The magic lies in the contrast—smooth, creamy vanilla-blue base paired with crunchy cookies that soften just enough in the ice cream. Each bite gives you a burst of sweetness, a little crunch, and a playful visual surprise with its vibrant color.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Making homemade ice cream is simple, but these tips will keep it foolproof:
- Always whip cream until soft peaks, not stiff, to avoid a grainy texture.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Don’t skimp on cookies—the more chunks, the more fun.
What to Avoid
Even the Cookie Monster makes mistakes—avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overmixing the cream, which makes it heavy instead of airy.
- Adding too much food coloring at once, which can result in an unnatural taste.
- Freezing in a deep dish, which takes longer and can freeze unevenly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 290
Note: These are approximate values.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours (including freezing)
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This recipe is freezer-friendly and loves to be made ahead. Simply prepare the mixture, cover tightly, and let it freeze overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. To serve again, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for easier scooping.
How to Serve Cookie Monster Ice Cream
Scoop it into waffle cones, serve in bowls with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or turn it into fun ice cream sandwiches with extra cookies. It pairs beautifully with brownies, cupcakes, or even just a tall glass of cold milk.
Creative Leftover Transformations
If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste:
- Blend into a Cookie Monster milkshake.
- Use as a fun topping for birthday cakes.
- Sandwich between two cookies for double-cookie ice cream sandwiches.
Additional Tips
A little patience goes a long way—give the ice cream enough time to freeze properly. For an extra fun twist, fold in mini candy-coated chocolates for bursts of color and crunch.
Make It a Showstopper
Presentation matters. Serve scoops in clear glasses to show off the bright blue color, or top with whipped cream and sprinkles for extra flair. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.
Variations to Try
- Add peanut butter cookies for a nutty twist.
- Fold in brownie chunks for an extra decadent treat.
- Swirl in caramel sauce for added richness.
- Create a mint version by adding peppermint extract and chocolate chunks.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this without food coloring?
Yes, the ice cream will taste the same but won’t have the signature Cookie Monster blue.
2. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
It’s not recommended, as homemade whipped cream gives better texture.
3. How long does it take to freeze?
At least 4–6 hours, but overnight is best for firm scoops.
4. Can I use different cookies?
Absolutely—any favorite cookie works here.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free cookies.
6. Can kids help make this?
Yes, they’ll love stirring in cookies and adding food coloring.
7. Do I need an ice cream maker?
No, this is a no-churn recipe.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free condensed milk.
9. How long will it last in the freezer?
About 2 weeks when stored properly.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger container and ensure even freezing.
Conclusion
Cookie Monster Ice Cream is more than just a dessert, it’s a playful scoop of nostalgia that brings smiles with every bite. From the creamy base to the chunky cookies and that unforgettable blue, it’s a treat that never fails to impress. So grab your spoon, share it with friends, and let the Cookie Monster in you come alive!