Few flavors evoke pure freshness quite like mint. This homemade peppermint cream is a simple yet elegant recipe that transforms fresh cream into a beautifully aromatic dessert component. Light, smooth, and naturally infused, it’s ideal for layering into cakes, serving with fruit, or enjoying on its own as a refined chilled treat.
I first encountered a version of this cream at a small countryside café in southern Italy. It was unexpectedly subtle — cool and clean without being overpowering — and it left a lasting impression. Since then, I’ve recreated it in my own kitchen, aiming to capture that same delicate balance of creaminess and herbal brightness. This recipe does just that, with only a handful of ingredients and no artificial flavorings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peppermint cream is wonderfully versatile and makes an excellent base or accent for all kinds of desserts. Whether you’re layering it into a sponge cake, pouring it over berries, or using it as a cool finish to a rich meal, it delivers a clean, refreshing taste that feels light yet indulgent.
Made with real mint leaves, this cream is naturally flavored and free from additives. You can customize it with sweetener or natural food coloring for a more striking presentation, but its charm lies in its simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500 ml heavy cream or plant-based whipping cream substitute
Use dairy cream for richness or a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version. - 1 bunch of fresh peppermint leaves
Fresh peppermint (Mentha piperita) is ideal for its intense and clean aroma. - Green food coloring (optional)
A few drops can enhance the visual appeal, especially in plated desserts. - Sugar to taste (optional)
Sweeten the cream lightly during cooking if desired, depending on how it will be used.
How to Make Peppermint Cream
Step 1: Prep the Mint
Remove the leaves from the stems, then rinse and gently dry them with a paper towel. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Cream
Pour the cream into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scalding.
Step 3: Infuse with Mint
Add the mint leaves to the hot cream and let them simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the essential oils to infuse the cream with fresh flavor.
Step 4: Strain and Adjust
Remove from the heat and strain the mixture to discard the leaves. If you’d like, add a few drops of green food coloring to give the cream a soft minty hue.
Step 5: Cool and Cover
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap, making sure it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Step 6: Chill Thoroughly
Transfer the cream to the refrigerator and chill completely — at least 2 hours — to allow the flavor and texture to develop.
Tips and Variations
- Sweetness Control: Add sugar during the simmering stage if serving the cream as a dessert on its own. Leave unsweetened if pairing with sweet components.
- Fluffy Option: After chilling, whip the cream for a light, airy texture — perfect for cakes or piping into tart shells.
- Extra Minty Kick: If you prefer a stronger flavor, add a drop or two of natural peppermint extract after straining.
Final Thoughts
This homemade peppermint cream is the perfect example of how simple ingredients, treated with care, can yield gourmet results. Its clean flavor and silky texture elevate any dessert it touches. Whether you’re serving it in an elegant dinner setting or enjoying it with fresh fruit on a summer afternoon, this cream delivers freshness in every spoonful.
Once you try it, you’ll find endless ways to use it — and every reason to keep it in your culinary repertoire.