There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about a scoop of homemade ice cream, especially when it’s packed with swirls of peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. That’s where this Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream comes in. Creamy, dreamy, and brimming with texture, it’s the ultimate frozen dessert for hot summer days, birthday parties, or anytime you need a sweet escape.
Crafting your own ice cream at home means you control the quality and ingredients, ensuring each bite is perfectly tailored to your taste. And with this Moose Tracks recipe, you’re getting that signature sweet-and-salty combo of chocolate and peanut butter in every luscious spoonful.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is perfect for:
- Ice cream lovers who enjoy rich, creamy textures and chunky mix-ins
- Home cooks looking for an easy yet indulgent dessert
- Families who want to get the kids involved in a fun kitchen activity
- Anyone avoiding store-bought ice cream packed with artificial additives or preservatives
With a simple ice cream base and generous helpings of chocolate chips and peanut butter cups, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that rivals premium store brands.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Moose Tracks ice cream:
Ice Cream Base:
- 1 gallon half-and-half 🥛
- 1 ½ cups sugar 🧂
- ½ cup light corn syrup 🍯
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 🌿
- ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 🍫
- 1 cup peanut butter cups, chopped 🥜🍫
Note: For a deeper chocolate flavor, you can also add a ribbon of chocolate fudge or swirl in some melted chocolate before freezing.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe with ease, gather the following:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ice cream maker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Freezer-safe airtight container
- Rubber spatula
- Ice cream scoop
If you don’t own an ice cream maker, don’t worry—we’ll include a no-churn variation below!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved. This base is the creamy canvas that carries the mix-ins and flavor.
2. Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. The colder the base, the better your ice cream will churn and freeze.
3. Churn the Ice Cream
Once the base is fully chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency.
4. Add the Mix-Ins
During the last few minutes of churning, add the chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. These will disperse evenly throughout the creamy base, creating those signature Moose Tracks chunks.
5. Freeze Until Firm
Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Seal the container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop into bowls or waffle cones and serve immediately. Top with extra peanut butter cups, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if you’re feeling fancy!
Recipe Tips & Variations
Get Creative with Mix-Ins:
- Use mini peanut butter cups for more even distribution.
- Add a fudge ripple by swirling in melted chocolate or hot fudge before freezing.
- Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate, toffee bits, or even chopped Oreos.
No Ice Cream Maker? Try This No-Churn Version:
- Whip 2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, salt, and corn syrup.
- Fold in the whipped cream and mix-ins, then freeze in a loaf pan or container for 6 hours.
Make It Dairy-Free:
Use full-fat coconut milk in place of half-and-half and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter cups. You’ll still get a rich, scoopable texture with tons of flavor.
Storage Instructions
To keep your Moose Tracks ice cream fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the back of the freezer to avoid temperature fluctuation.
- Use a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals.
- Best enjoyed within 2 weeks for optimal texture and flavor.
Food Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Pair this decadent ice cream with:
- Warm brownies or chocolate chip cookies for a dessert that’s over the top
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast
- Coffee or espresso for an affogato-style treat
- Caramel popcorn for a salty-sweet twist on sundae toppings
For a party, set up a DIY sundae bar with whipped cream, hot fudge, crushed nuts, sprinkles, and cherries. Everyone will love building their own customized Moose Tracks creations.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Fat: Approx. 16g
- Carbs: Approx. 35g
- Protein: Approx. 4g
- Servings: 16
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on brands and serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Yes! Using a mix of heavy cream and whole milk (in equal parts) will give you a similarly rich texture.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute with honey, agave syrup, or simply increase the sugar slightly. Corn syrup helps prevent ice crystals, so texture may vary.
Is it safe for people with peanut allergies?
Moose Tracks traditionally includes peanut butter cups, so this version is not suitable for peanut allergies. You can substitute with sunflower butter cups or omit entirely.
Can I make this lower in sugar?
Yes! Use a sugar substitute like allulose or erythritol. Be sure to check your ice cream maker’s instructions, as some sugar substitutes can affect freezing behavior.
Final Scoop
This Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream is rich, creamy, and packed with texture—perfect for dessert lovers who want the satisfaction of a premium treat without the price tag. It’s customizable, easy to make, and even easier to devour.
Whether you’re treating yourself on a warm day or impressing guests with your dessert game, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your freezer rotation.
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