Here’s a recipe for the Ultimate Moose Tracks Ice Cream—a rich and creamy vanilla ice cream loaded with fudge swirls and mini peanut butter cups. This homemade version is even better than store-bought!
Ingredients (Makes about 1.5 quarts):
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Fudge Swirl:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups (store-bought or homemade), chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to ensure it’s very cold.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Swirl
- In a small saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined. Let the fudge sauce cool to room temperature (it will thicken as it cools).
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20-25 minutes) until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork or whisk to break up ice crystals until it’s smooth and creamy (about 3-4 hours).
Step 4: Add the Mix-Ins
- Once the ice cream is churned, layer it in a loaf pan or airtight container, alternating with spoonfuls of the fudge swirl and chopped peanut butter cups. Use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the fudge into the ice cream (don’t overmix—you want ribbons of fudge).
- Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
Serving:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- Garnish with extra peanut butter cups or a drizzle of fudge sauce if desired.
This Ultimate Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a crowd-pleaser, combining creamy vanilla ice cream, decadent fudge swirls, and irresistible peanut butter cups. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth! Enjoy!
