Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe

There is something irresistibly comforting about creamy, dreamy ice cream packed with chunks of peanut butter cups and ribbons of fudge sauce. This Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe captures that classic flavor in a way that feels fresh, homemade, and downright indulgent. Whether you’re an ice cream purist or a fun-loving dessert adventurer, making this treat from scratch is such a rewarding experience—you get to watch simple ingredients transform into the kind of luscious ice cream that practically begs for second helpings. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to whip up your own batch that will impress family, friends, or just satisfy your own sweet tooth cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a beautiful balance of basic but essential ingredients that each play a starring role in flavor and texture. From rich heavy cream to smooth peanut butter cups, every element is carefully chosen to create that signature Moose Tracks magic.

• 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the luscious richness and smooth mouthfeel that dreamy ice cream demands.
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half: Adds creaminess with a lighter touch compared to using all heavy cream.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth, enhancing the sweet undertones of the ice cream.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for creating silky custard base that makes the ice cream extra creamy.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens everything perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.
• ½ cup chocolate fudge sauce: This swirled-in delight adds rich chocolate goodness and gooey texture.
• ¾ cup mini peanut butter cups: The star ingredient that brings crunchy, salty, and nutty notes to every bite.

How to Make Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Heat and Sweeten Your Dairy

Begin by gently heating the half-and-half with the sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture starts to simmer—this not only dissolves the sugar but also starts intensifying those creamy flavors.

Step 2: Temper the Eggs

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Slowly pour half of the warm cream mixture into the eggs while whisking rapidly—this crucial step prevents the eggs from scrambling and allows them to gradually warm up.

Step 3: Combine and Cook the Custard Base

Return the egg mixture to the saucepan, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then cook over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—a silky custard like this is the heart of your base for beautifully smooth ice cream.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Transfer the custard into a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours if you want to get ahead. This chilling deepens the flavors and ensures a perfect churn.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This is where magic happens—the mixture turns from liquid to that wonderfully dense, creamy ice cream texture we all crave.

Step 6: Mix in the Moose Tracks Goodies

When the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency, keep the machine running as you add the chocolate fudge sauce and mini peanut butter cups. Churn just enough to swirls the fudge in and evenly distribute the peanut butter cups without breaking them down too much.

Step 7: Freeze Until Firm

Transfer your ice cream to a glass baking dish or bread pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze until fully set—usually a few hours to overnight. This final step ensures every scoop holds its signature Moose Tracks texture and flavor.

How to Serve Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle some chopped peanut butter cups or drizzle a little extra chocolate fudge sauce on top. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cocoa powder can add elegance without overpowering the main flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve this ice cream alongside warm brownies or crunchy pretzel sticks for a perfect sweet and salty combo. Fresh berries or a fruity compote also balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving scoops in waffle cones or inside hollowed-out cupcakes for a fun twist. You can also layer the ice cream with fudge sauce and chopped peanut butter cups in parfait glasses to create irresistible Moose Tracks parfaits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover ice cream in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn and absorption of other odors. Press a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing for extra protection and freshness.

Freezing

This Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe freezes exceptionally well for up to two weeks. Just remember that the longer it stays frozen, the harder it gets, so a few minutes at room temperature before scooping is often helpful.

Reheating

Unlike other dishes, ice cream isn’t meant to be reheated. Simply scoop out a bit early and let it soften naturally or give it a quick stir to soften before serving up that luxurious, creamy goodness.

FAQs

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes! You can pour the chilled mixture into a freezer-safe container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes as it freezes to break up ice crystals. It won’t be quite as smooth but will still be delicious.

What can I substitute for mini peanut butter cups?

If peanut butter cups aren’t your thing, try chopped Reese’s pieces, crushed pretzels, or even chocolate chips for a different but still satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the cream and half-and-half, though the texture will change slightly—expect a softer, less creamy ice cream but still tasty.

How long does the ice cream keep in the freezer?

For the best texture and flavor, enjoy your ice cream within two weeks of making it. It will remain safe beyond that but may develop freezer burn or lose some of its creaminess.

Can I prepare the custard base in advance?

Absolutely! The custard base can be made and refrigerated up to 24 hours before churning, which actually allows the flavors to intensify and makes the process more manageable.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe is like gifting yourself a little slice of happiness that tastes like childhood memories and sweet indulgence all rolled into one. The satisfaction of crafting such a delicious, creamy treat from scratch is truly unbeatable. So grab those ingredients, fire up your ice cream maker, and get ready to enjoy every luscious, fudgy, peanut buttery bite!

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