01 - In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Gradually whisk the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
03 - Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F/77°C).
04 - Remove from heat. Stir in peppermint extract and food coloring if using. Strain through a fine sieve into a clean bowl. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
05 - Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturers instructions. In the final minutes, add the chocolate chips. Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.
06 - Preheat your waffle iron. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
07 - In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
08 - Lightly grease the waffle iron. Pour batter into the iron and cook according to manufacturers instructions until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.
09 - Place a warm waffle on each plate, top generously with scoops of mint chocolate chip ice cream, and garnish with extra chocolate chips or fresh mint if desired.