Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream

Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream is pure indulgence for chocolate and peanut butter fans. This recipe brings that classic parlor favorite right to your kitchen without any complicated steps or fancy gadgets. Creamy and rich with generous swirls of chocolate and irresistible bites of peanut butter cup pieces this is the ultimate homemade summer treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• Half and half: gives creamy body without being overly heavy Look for one with no additives for best results
• Sugar: is essential for sweetness as well as smooth texture Use fine granulated sugar so it dissolves quickly
• Light corn syrup: prevents ice crystals making the ice cream scoopable and perfectly smooth Buy clear syrup so the base stays bright
• Vanilla extract: amps up the milkiness of the base Pure vanilla is always worth it for true flavor
• Salt: balances all the sweetness and intensifies chocolate and peanut notes Go for fine sea salt so it mixes in evenly
• Semisweet chocolate chips: add fudgy chunks and swirls Choose a quality brand for best melt and flavor
• Peanut butter cups: give signature Moose Tracks bliss Chop into bite size pieces so every spoonful surprises

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the half and half sugar corn syrup vanilla extract and salt until the sugar dissolves completely This step sets the stage for a super silky smooth texture

Churn the Ice Cream:

Pour the prepared ice cream base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer instructions typically this takes about twenty five to thirty minutes You are looking for a soft serve consistency at this stage where the ice cream is thick but still a little soft

Add the Mix Ins:

Once the ice cream has almost finished churning scatter in the chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups Let them mix in for two or three minutes so the pieces are distributed evenly without breaking up too much This is when you start to see those signature chocolate and peanut butter ribbons

Final Freeze:

Transfer the soft churned ice cream into a clean airtight container Smooth the top and cover tightly Place in the freezer for at least four hours This final freeze firms up the texture to that perfect scoopable consistency fans love

Serve and Enjoy:

When ready to serve let the container sit at room temperature for five minutes then scoop generous mounds into bowls or cones Each bite is loaded with creamy chocolate and peanut butter goodness

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Storage Tips

Store the finished ice cream in a deep airtight container to keep it from picking up freezer smells Press a piece of wax paper or parchment directly on the surface before sealing to minimize ice crystal formation Homemade ice cream tastes freshest within the first week but it is safe for up to a month in the freezer

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer you can use whole milk with some heavy cream in place of the half and half The flavor will be even richer For a nut free version swap peanut butter cups for chocolate covered caramels or bits of toffee Dark chocolate chips add a more bittersweet note if you want extra chocolate depth

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the Moose Tracks ice cream into crispy cones or classic bowls For a sundae party top with hot fudge sprinkles or even a dollop of whipped cream I have been known to sandwich it between two big chocolate chip cookies for the best homemade ice cream sandwiches

A Bit of Moose Tracks History

Moose Tracks was invented in Michigan as a fun twist on classic chocolate vanilla swirls The combo of velvety ice cream peanut butter cups and a chocolate fudge ripple quickly became an American favorite My first taste was at a summer fair and I have been chasing that nostalgia ever since

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a smooth and creamy texture?

Ensure the sugar fully dissolves in the half-and-half mixture before churning and use an ice cream maker for even freezing.

→ Can I use other mix-ins besides chocolate chips and peanut butter cups?

Yes, try chopped brownies, caramel swirls, or different chocolate candies for variety and flavor.

→ What's the best way to store this frozen treat?

Transfer to an airtight container and store in the coldest part of your freezer. Enjoy within two weeks for peak freshness.

→ How do I prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard?

Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, which makes serving easier.

→ Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes, mix ingredients as instructed, pour into a freezer-safe dish, and stir every 30 minutes until firm.