Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream, a classic favorite known for its swirls of chocolate fudge, peanut butter cups, and vanilla ice cream base. Perfect for summer days or any time you crave a decadent treat, this recipe is both fun to make and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Combination: A luscious mix of creamy vanilla, velvety fudge, and peanut butter cups.
- Homemade Goodness: Control the quality of ingredients for a fresher, more delicious result.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or add your own favorite mix-ins.
- Fun to Make: A great activity for family and friends, especially with an ice cream maker.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Heavy cream
- Whole milk
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini peanut butter cups
- Chocolate fudge sauce
- Salt
Directions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base: Whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold in chopped mini peanut butter cups.
- Create the Moose Tracks Swirls: Layer the churned ice cream in a freezer-safe container, drizzling chocolate fudge sauce between layers.
- Freeze: Cover and freeze for 3-4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and scoopable.
- Serve: Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Churning Time: 20-25 minutes
- Freezing Time: 3-4 hours
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk. Substitute dairy-free chocolate and peanut butter cups.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all mix-ins, especially the peanut butter cups, are gluten-free.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or peanuts, for additional texture.
- Fudge Alternative: Use caramel sauce for a twist on the classic flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. Cover the surface with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals.
- Reheating: For easier scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can. Whisk the ingredients, pour them into a container, and freeze while stirring every 30 minutes until creamy.
2. What can I use instead of peanut butter cups?
Try chocolate chips, cookie dough chunks, or marshmallows for different mix-ins.
3. Can I use low-fat milk?
For the creamiest result, stick with whole milk and heavy cream, but low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.
4. How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?
Ensure the mixture is churned properly and stored with an airtight seal and a layer of plastic wrap on the surface.
5. Can I make the fudge sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade fudge sauce made with cocoa powder, sugar, and cream adds a personal touch.
6. Is this recipe nut-free?
If you skip the peanut butter cups and use nut-free chocolate, the recipe can be made nut-free.
7. What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
You can use vanilla bean paste or the seeds from a vanilla pod for a natural flavor.
8. How long does it take to churn the ice cream?
Most ice cream makers take 20-25 minutes, but refer to your machine’s instructions for best results.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your ice cream maker has enough capacity to churn the larger quantity.
10. What’s the best way to serve this ice cream?
Serve in bowls, cones, or as part of a sundae with extra fudge sauce and whipped cream.
Conclusion
Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a delightful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With creamy vanilla ice cream, ribbons of fudge, and bits of peanut butter cups, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a special celebration, this ice cream is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a homemade scoop of indulgence!
Print
Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2-4 hours
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 3-4 hours
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Frozen
- Cuisine: American
Description
Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a creamy vanilla base loaded with ribbons of fudge, mini peanut butter cups, and chocolate chunks. This homemade version is a decadent treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the mix-ins:
- 1 cup (150 g) mini peanut butter cups, halved or chopped
- 1/2 cup (100 g) chocolate chunks or chips
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) fudge sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For homemade fudge sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the fudge sauce (if making homemade):
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, butter, and cocoa powder over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature before using.
Step 2: Make the ice cream base:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
Step 3: Add the mix-ins:
- Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, gently fold in the peanut butter cups and chocolate chunks.
- Drizzle the fudge sauce over the ice cream in layers and swirl it lightly with a knife or spatula. Avoid overmixing to maintain the fudge ribbons.
Step 4: Freeze the ice cream:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for at least 2-4 hours, or until firm.
Step 5: Serve:
- Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream!
Notes
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the base into a shallow dish, freeze for 1 hour, then stir vigorously. Repeat every 30 minutes until the desired consistency is achieved.
- For an extra indulgent touch, top the ice cream with additional peanut butter cups and fudge sauce before serving.