Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

There’s something undeniably magical about homemade ice cream, and when it comes to indulgence, Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream takes the cake—quite literally! I still remember the first time I experimented with combining rich, creamy peanut butter and decadent chocolate in a frozen treat. It was a hot summer day, and I was looking for a way to cool down. As I blended the ingredients together, the aroma wafted through my kitchen, stirring up childhood memories of summer days spent chasing ice cream trucks. That moment sparked a joy that I still feel every time I make this delightful treat.

This recipe isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating a moment of happiness. Whether you’re enjoying it with family during a backyard barbecue or savoring a quiet night in, each bite of this ice cream is a reminder to celebrate the little joys in life. The delightful crunch of the rice cereal mixed with the creamy texture of the ice cream creates a symphony of flavors and textures that make it truly special. Every scoop is an invitation to indulge, and trust me, you’ll want to keep coming back for more!

What makes Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream even more appealing is how easy it is to make at home. Forget about overpriced store-bought options; with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that rivals any artisanal ice cream shop. The combination of heavy cream, milk, and rich peanut butter forms a luscious base, while the chocolate chips and crisp rice cereal add that extra crunch. It’s a fun and rewarding process, and I guarantee it’ll become a go-to recipe in your summer rotation.

So grab your mixing bowls and spatulas, and let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade ice cream. You’re just a few steps away from creating this creamy delight that’s sure to impress everyone!

What to Gather for Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

The philosophy behind the ingredients in Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream lies in their ability to work harmoniously together. Each ingredient plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture that make this dessert so irresistible. The heavy cream and whole milk provide a creamy base, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. The peanut butter delivers that nutty richness, and the chocolate chips offer a decadent touch. Finally, the crisp rice cereal adds a satisfying crunch that will have you reaching for another scoop!

• 2 cups heavy cream, divided – The primary ingredient that creates a rich and creamy base for the ice cream.
• 1 cup whole milk – Adds additional creaminess and helps balance the richness of the heavy cream.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the mixture, making it a delightful treat.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors; consider increasing to 1/4 teaspoon if using unsalted peanut butter.
• 4 large egg yolks – Contributes to the creamy texture and helps in thickening the ice cream base.
• 2/3 cup creamy salted peanut butter – Provides that deliciously nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor to the ice cream mixture.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (about 3 ounces) – Offers bursts of rich chocolate flavor in every bite.
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter – Enhances the peanut butter flavor throughout the ice cream.
• 1 1/2 cups crisp rice cereal – Introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth ice cream.

The Method for Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. It involves a few simple steps that lead to a creamy and crunchy dessert. Let’s walk through the process together!

1. Start by pouring 1 cup of the heavy cream into a heat-proof bowl. Nest this bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice water. This will help cool down the mixture later. Place a fine mesh sieve over the top of both bowls to strain the mixture later.
2. In a saucepan, combine the remaining heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly. You want to continue cooking until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture just starts to steam. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. While the mixture is heating, crack open the egg yolks in a small bowl. Whisk them together until they are well combined. Gradually whisk in some of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, about 1/3 cup at a time. This is called tempering, and it prevents the yolks from cooking too quickly.
4. Once you have incorporated about half of the cream mixture into the yolks, pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Return it to medium heat and stir constantly. You will notice the mixture thickening slightly. Continue stirring until it coats the back of a spatula and reaches a temperature of about 165 to 170ºF. Avoid allowing it to boil.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the creamy salted peanut butter. Stir until it is completely smooth and incorporated into the mixture.
6. Carefully pour the mixture through the fine mesh sieve into the bowl of cold heavy cream. This will help to catch any solids, ensuring a smooth ice cream base. Stir until the mixture is cool.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the cream mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until completely cool, which usually takes at least 3 hours. For best results, let it chill overnight.
8. While the mixture is cooling, prepare the crunchy topping. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the creamy peanut butter. Microwave on medium power for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds until it’s melted and smooth.
9. Once melted, fold in the crisp rice cereal until it’s evenly coated with the chocolate mixture. Spread this mixture in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm.
10. Once your ice cream base has chilled, churn it according to your ice cream maker’s instructions. When it reaches a soft-serve consistency, gently stir in the crunch pieces. Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze overnight until it’s completely firm.

Things Worth Knowing

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To elevate your ice cream experience, here are some pro tips and tweaks that you might find useful:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container. This keeps the ice cream fresh and prevents it from absorbing other flavors in the freezer.
• Freezing: You can freeze the ice cream for longer periods, but for the best texture, try to consume it within two weeks.
• Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix in other ingredients like chopped nuts or different flavored chips. They can add a unique twist to the recipe!
• Serving Size: For easier scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This softens it slightly.
• Pairing: This ice cream is fantastic on its own but also pairs beautifully with warm desserts like brownies or pie.
• Gifting: Consider making this ice cream as a delightful homemade gift. Package it in a cute container to share the joy!

Serving Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

When it comes to enjoying Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream, the serving possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Perfect for Summer Parties: Serve this ice cream at your next summer BBQ or picnic. It’s a cool treat that everyone will love!
• Decadent Dessert: Pair scoops of this ice cream with a slice of warm pie or a piece of cake for a fancy dessert option.
• Ice Cream Sundaes: Create an indulgent sundae by adding hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
• Gourmet Milkshakes: Blend a scoop of this ice cream with milk for a rich and creamy milkshake that’s sure to satisfy.
• Family Movie Night: Enjoy this ice cream while watching your favorite movie at home. It’s a perfect treat for cozy nights in.
• Seasonal Celebrations: This ice cream is versatile enough to be served during various celebrations, such as birthdays or holidays.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream is a delightful treat that perfectly marries the creamy richness of peanut butter and chocolate with an exciting crunch. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to delight your taste buds. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. You won’t regret it!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

The ultimate comfort food for indulgence, Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream combines creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with a delightful crunch. This easy treat is perfect for summer gatherings and will leave everyone wanting more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt increase to 1/4 teaspoon if using unsalted peanut butter
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup creamy salted peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (about 3 ounces)
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups crisp rice cereal

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. To make the ice cream, pour 1 cup of the heavy cream into a heat-proof bowl and nest inside a larger bowl filled with ice water. Place a fine mesh sieve over the top of both bowls.
2. In a saucepan, combine remaining heavy cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook gently over medium heat, stirring regularly, until sugar is dissolved and mixture just starts to steam. Remove from heat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly whisk in some of the warm cream mixture, 1/3 cup at a time, until about half of the cream mixture has been incorporated and yolk mixture is warm to the touch. You want to do this gradually; doing so will temper the egg yolks rather than cook them.
4. Pour yolk mixture back into the saucepan and return to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spatula, about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it reaches approximately 165 to 170ºF. Do not allow it to boil.
5. Remove from heat, then add peanut butter and stir until smooth. Pour mixture through sieve into cold cream, discarding any solids. Add vanilla extract and stir until cool.
6. Cover mixture with plastic wrap, carefully pressing wrap down onto the surface of the cream mixture. This will prevent a skin from forming on top of the custard. Refrigerate until completely cool, at least 3 hours or overnight if possible.
7. Meanwhile, combine chocolate and peanut butter in a large, microwave safe bowl. Microwave on medium speed for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds, until melted and smooth.
8. Fold in rice cereal until evenly coated. Spread mixture in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then freeze until firm. Just before using, coarsely chop into bite-sized pieces.
9. Churn ice cream according to manufacturer’s instructions. When ice cream is the consistency of soft serve, stir in the crunch pieces, then transfer to a freezer safe container and freeze overnight until firm.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the ice cream for longer periods, but for the best texture, try to consume it within two weeks.
• Tip 3: Don’t hesitate to mix in other ingredients like chopped nuts or different flavored chips.
• Tip 4: For easier scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
• Tip 5: This ice cream is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully with warm desserts like brownies.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.