If you’re a fan of indulgent, crave-worthy desserts, then you are going to adore this Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe. It’s a delightful homemade treat that brings together creamy vanilla ice cream, rich fudge ribbons, and the irresistible crunch of mini peanut butter cups. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of velvety texture and chocolate-peanut butter goodness, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe are simple staples, yet each one plays an essential role in creating that luscious texture and balanced flavor that Moose Tracks fans love. From the creamy dairy components to the sweet and salty mix-ins, every ingredient adds its own magic.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This gives the ice cream its rich, smooth texture and luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds just enough lightness and creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- ¾ cup sugar: Sweetens the ice cream perfectly and helps with the creamy consistency.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, classic flavor that forms the base for this recipe.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors by balancing the sweetness and deepening the taste.
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped: Adds the perfect salty-sweet crunch and peanut butter goodness.
- ½ cup fudge sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, it creates those irresistible fudge swirls throughout.
- 1 ½ cups vanilla ice cream base (optional): If you prefer to make your own from scratch, this provides a creamy canvas for the mix-ins.
How to Make Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Make the Ice Cream Base
If you’re going the homemade route, start by heating the milk, heavy cream, and sugar together in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling. Stir in vanilla extract, then let it cool to room temperature before chilling it in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight. This step sets the foundation for incredibly smooth and creamy ice cream.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture
Next, if you’re using store-bought vanilla ice cream, soften it until you can stir it into a smooth consistency. If you’re working with the homemade base, churn it in your ice cream maker following the manufacturer’s instructions until it’s thick and creamy. This part is truly a labor of love that pays off with perfect texture.
Step 3: Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups
Once the ice cream is ready, gently fold in the chopped mini peanut butter cups. This is where the magic begins, as you mix in those irresistible pockets of peanut butter and chocolate that add a delightful crunch and flavor burst.
Step 4: Layer the Fudge Sauce
In a freezer-safe container, layer the ice cream and drizzle fudge sauce between layers. Use a spoon or knife to create gentle swirls throughout, ensuring that every scoop has those decadent ribbons of fudge woven throughout. The fudge adds depth and luscious richness to the ice cream.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Place the container in the freezer for at least four hours to allow the ice cream to firm up completely. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully and the texture solidify just right for scooping and serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After freezing, your Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. Scoop out generous portions and get ready to dive into layers of creamy, crunchy, and fudge-y bliss!
How to Serve Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a few extra mini peanut butter cups on top adds a lovely finishing touch. You could even drizzle extra warm fudge sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for that wow factor when serving your ice cream.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with warm apple pie or brownie bites, complementing the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Fresh berries on the side can also add a refreshing burst that balances the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party treat, serve your Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe in waffle cones or make mini ice cream sandwiches by sandwiching scoops between chocolate chip cookies. You can even layer it in parfait glasses with chopped nuts and fudge sauce for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe tightly sealed in an airtight container to preserve freshness and avoid ice crystals. Stored properly in the freezer, it’ll remain delicious for up to two weeks.
Freezing
This ice cream freezes very well. Just ensure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw slightly for a few minutes before serving to get the perfect scoopable consistency.
Reheating
Since this is an ice cream recipe, reheating is not recommended. However, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes will soften it enough for easy scooping without melting completely.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought vanilla ice cream instead of making the base?
Absolutely! Using store-bought vanilla ice cream cuts down on prep time and still tastes fantastic. Just soften it and mix gently before folding in your peanut butter cups and fudge sauce.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan version of this recipe?
You can substitute coconut milk or almond milk-based creamers and dairy-free ice cream for a vegan twist. Make sure the peanut butter cups and fudge sauce are also vegan-friendly for the best results.
Can I add other mix-ins besides peanut butter cups?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or even swirls of caramel would be great additions to customize your Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe.
How long can I store the ice cream after making it?
For the best taste and texture, consume within two weeks. After that, the ice cream may develop ice crystals and lose some of its creamy texture.
Do I need an ice cream maker to make this recipe?
While an ice cream maker helps achieve the creamiest texture, you can still make this recipe using softened store-bought ice cream or by stirring the base periodically while freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying this Moose Tracks Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Cups & Fudge Recipe at home. It’s one of those sweet treats that feels truly special, yet is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing friends and family, this recipe captures all the flavors and fun of classic Moose Tracks in a homemade masterpiece. Get ready to discover your new favorite ice cream!
