This Easy Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream is a creamy delight! It combines rich brownie chunks with smooth peanut butter swirls for a treat that’s oh so yummy!
What I love most is how simple it is. Just mix, freeze, and enjoy! Perfect for hot days or when I need a quick pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the ice cream. If you’re in a hurry, you could use half-and-half as a lighter option, but keep in mind it may not be as creamy.
Brownie Chunks: You can use store-bought brownies for convenience. If you’re making them at home, ensure they are slightly underbaked for a fudgier texture. Cake-like brownies can also work, but may not give the same chewy bite.
Peanut Butter: I recommend creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. If you prefer a different flavor, almond butter or cashew butter can be good substitutes, though they change the taste of the ice cream!
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the base. You can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, but this may alter the texture slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in My Ice Cream?
To achieve a creamy texture, it’s all about mixing and churning. Start by whisking your ice cream base well to ensure everything is combined. The more air you can incorporate during churning, the lighter and smoother your ice cream will be.
- Churn the mixture until it reaches a soft-serve consistency; don’t rush this step!
- Make sure to freeze it long enough afterward to firm up—they say patience is a virtue!
- If you like a softer ice cream, take it out of the freezer 10 minutes before serving for easier scooping.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth)
- 1 cup brownie chunks (store-bought or homemade, cut into small cubes)
- Optional: pinch of salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time. If you include the time to churn and freeze the ice cream, plan for around 3 hours in total before it’s ready to scoop and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is completely dissolved. Make sure everything is mixed well!
2. Add Peanut Butter:
To make mixing easier, warm the creamy peanut butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This will soften it up! Gently swirl the warm peanut butter into the ice cream base. For a nice marbled look, be careful not to blend it completely; just fold it enough so you can see those beautiful ribbons of peanut butter.
3. Churn the Mixture:
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes, until the mixture has thickened to a soft-serve texture.
4. Add Brownie Chunks:
During the last few minutes of churning, toss in the brownie chunks. This way, they get evenly mixed in, adding delicious bites of chocolate goodness throughout the ice cream.
5. Freeze to Firm Up:
Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container. If you want an extra swirl of peanut butter on top, now’s the time to drizzle it in! Cover and freeze for at least 3 hours or until it’s firm enough to scoop.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to indulge, scoop your peanut butter brownie ice cream into bowls or cones. It’s ready to enjoy immediately, so dig in and savor every bite!
This easy recipe yields a rich and creamy ice cream packed with peanut butter flavor and chewy brownie chunks. It’s perfect for warm days or whenever you’re in the mood for a delightful treat!
FAQ about Easy Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut milk. Keep in mind that using non-dairy milk may slightly change the creaminess of the final ice cream.
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
Your Easy Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container. After that, it may lose some of its texture and flavor quality.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with mix-ins such as chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even a swirl of caramel or fudge. Just be sure to add them during the last few minutes of churning for even distribution!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No ice cream maker, no problem! You can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir it every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours until it reaches a creamy consistency. This method requires a bit more effort but will still give you delicious results!
