If you are a fan of rich, indulgent ice cream that combines creamy vanilla with pockets of peanut butter delight and luscious fudge swirls, then the Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe is your new best friend. This classic treat perfectly balances smooth texture, sweet and salty flavors, and those irresistible crunchy peanut butter cup bits that give every bite a joyful surprise. Whether you make the ice cream base from scratch or start with store-bought vanilla ice cream, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a scoop of happiness into your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and creamy consistency that Moose Tracks is known for. From the richness of heavy cream to the sweet punch of peanut butter cups, every component blends harmoniously.
- Heavy cream (2 cups): Provides the rich, creamy texture that makes the ice cream luscious and satisfying.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Balances creaminess and helps achieve a smooth ice cream base.
- Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens and improves the ice cream’s overall mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract (1 tbsp or 1 tsp depending on step): Adds that classic vanilla flavor that enhances every other ingredient.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Just a pinch to accentuate sweetness and deepen flavors.
- Mini peanut butter cups (1 cup, chopped): The star add-in, delivering delightful chunks of peanut butter and chocolate.
- Fudge sauce (½ cup): Swirled throughout to enrich the ice cream with chocolaty indulgence.
- Vanilla ice cream base (1 ½ cups if homemade): Optional if you prefer to start from scratch rather than using premade vanilla ice cream.
How to Make Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Make the Ice Cream Base (Optional)
If you are opting for a homemade base, gently heat the milk, heavy cream, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let this cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to thicken and chill thoroughly. This base creates a fresh, rich canvas for your ice cream.
Step 2: Churn or Soften the Ice Cream
For those using the homemade base, pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy. If you’re using store-bought vanilla ice cream, simply let it soften at room temperature and then stir it vigorously until smooth and easy to fold in the mix-ins.
Step 3: Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups
Once your creamy vanilla mixture is ready, gently fold in the chopped mini peanut butter cups. Distribute them evenly to ensure that every scoop of Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe has those irresistible bites of peanut buttery chocolate scattered throughout.
Step 4: Layer the Fudge Sauce
In a freezer-safe container, layer the ice cream and drizzle with the luscious fudge sauce. Use a spoon or a butter knife to swirl the fudge gently through the ice cream, creating gorgeous ribbons of chocolate that promise rich flavor in every mouthful.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Seal your container and freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or until solid enough to scoop. This step is crucial to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and to achieve that perfect scoopable texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Now comes the best part. Scoop generous portions of your homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe, serve on your favorite bowls or cones, and savor the luscious combination that feels like a treat from your favorite ice cream parlor.
How to Serve Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving experience by adding a sprinkle of crushed peanut butter cups on top or a few extra swirls of warm fudge sauce. A light dusting of flaky sea salt can boost the chocolate and peanut butter flavors wonderfully. For a bit of textural contrast, crushed pretzels or chopped roasted peanuts are fantastic options too.
Side Dishes
This indulgent ice cream pairs beautifully with warm desserts like brownies or chocolate chip cookies. The hot and cold sensation creates a delightful sensory experience. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad can add a refreshing balance if you prefer a lighter accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe in chocolate-dipped waffle cones or hollowed-out mini chocolate cups. Another fun twist is to create an ice cream sandwich with peanut butter cookies—pure bliss! You can even layer it in a parfait glass with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a stunning dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your ice cream has been made and properly frozen, store any leftovers in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and preserve its creamy texture. Press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface before sealing to minimize ice crystal formation. Back in the freezer, it should stay delicious for up to two weeks.
Freezing
This Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe freezes exceptionally well, thanks to its creamy base and mix-ins. Just be sure to freeze it on a flat surface to keep it even. Avoid frequent thawing and refreezing as this can compromise texture and flavor.
Reheating
Ice cream is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. When you’re ready to serve, remove it from the freezer about 5 to 10 minutes beforehand to soften slightly for perfect scooping. Avoid microwaving as it will melt unevenly and lose that delightful creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can use softened store-bought vanilla ice cream as your base and simply fold in the peanut butter cups and fudge sauce. Freeze the mixture thoroughly afterward for the best results.
What type of fudge sauce works best for this recipe?
You can use either store-bought fudge sauce or make your own at home. A thick, rich fudge that holds its shape but is still pourable works best to create those beautiful swirls throughout the ice cream.
Can I substitute the peanut butter cups with something else?
Definitely! If you want to change things up, chopped chocolate bars, caramel chunks, or even pretzel pieces pair wonderfully while maintaining that crunchy texture contrast.
How long does the ice cream need to freeze before serving?
At least 4 hours is recommended to ensure the Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe is firm and perfectly scoopable, but longer freezing times will not harm it.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
With some adjustments, yes! Use coconut milk and coconut cream as substitutes for dairy, ensure the fudge sauce is dairy-free, and choose vegan peanut butter cups. The texture and flavor might differ slightly but still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, especially when every spoonful delights with creamy vanilla, peanut butter crunch, and rich fudge ribbons. Whether it’s a special celebration or just a weekend indulgence, this recipe brings a scoop of joy and comfort. Don’t hesitate to dive in and share this luscious treat with family and friends—they will thank you for it!
Print
Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge is a decadent homemade treat featuring a creamy vanilla ice cream base swirled with rich fudge sauce and studded with mini peanut butter cups for a delightful crunch and peanut butter flavor. Perfect for ice cream lovers craving a sweet and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- ½ cup fudge sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Make the homemade ice cream base: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, cream, and sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly.
- Prepare the ice cream mixture: If using a homemade base, churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy. If using store-bought vanilla ice cream, soften it and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the peanut butter cups: Gently fold the chopped mini peanut butter cups into the churned or softened ice cream, ensuring even distribution without melting the ice cream.
- Layer the fudge sauce: In a freezer-safe container, layer portions of the ice cream with drizzles of fudge sauce between layers. Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the fudge into the ice cream, creating attractive fudge ribbons.
- Freeze: Place the layered ice cream container in the freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours or until the ice cream is fully frozen and firm.
- Serve: Scoop the Moose Tracks Ice Cream into bowls or cones and enjoy the creamy, nutty, and chocolaty flavors of this homemade dessert.
Notes
- For best results, chill the ice cream base mixture overnight before churning.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, use softened store-bought vanilla ice cream as a convenient alternative.
- You can make fudge sauce at home using butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar for a richer flavor.
- To evenly distribute peanut butter cups without melting the ice cream, add them after churning or softening the ice cream just before freezing.
- Store the finished ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
