When it comes to indulgent desserts, few can rival the delightful combination of ice cream and candy. The Frozen Candy Avalanche is a true celebration of flavors and textures, packed with the beloved treats of Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and luscious cookie dough. This dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, this ice cream concoction will surely be the star of the show. The creamy base combined with the crunch of candy and the chewiness of cookie dough creates an irresistible dessert that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious masterpiece!
Tools and Equipment
Before we start whipping up this sweet delight, it’s essential to gather the right tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Freezer-safe container for storage
- Cookie sheet (for heat-treating flour)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping candy)
Ingredients List
Now that you have your tools ready, let’s take a look at the ingredients that will bring our Frozen Candy Avalanche to life:
- 2 cups (480 ml) cold heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour (heat-treated*)
- ½ cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips
- ¾ cup (150 g) chopped Snickers
- ¾ cup (150 g) chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- ½ cup (120 ml) chocolate fudge sauce (optional)
Heavy cream is the foundation of our ice cream, providing the rich and creamy texture we love. Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and a velvety consistency. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making it aromatic and delicious. The unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar form the base of our cookie dough, giving it that classic cookie flavor. Milk is added to the dough to achieve the right consistency, and heat-treated flour ensures safety when consuming raw dough. Finally, the mix-ins of mini chocolate chips, chopped Snickers, and chopped Reese’s provide bursts of flavor and texture, while the chocolate fudge sauce adds an optional layer of indulgence.
Preparation Steps
Before we get to the cooking, let’s prepare the cookie dough that will be folded into our ice cream. Follow these preliminary steps:
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and light in color.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the heat-treated flour and mini chocolate chips until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small chunks and place them in the refrigerator to chill while we prepare the ice cream base.
Tip: Chilling the dough will help it maintain its shape when folded into the ice cream.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our cookie dough ready, let’s move on to whipping up the ice cream base and combining all the delicious elements:
- Whip the Ice Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks start to form. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
- Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Candy Overload! Fold in the chopped Snickers, Reese’s, and chilled cookie dough pieces until evenly distributed throughout the ice cream base.
- If you’re feeling extra indulgent, swirl in the chocolate fudge sauce for a rich, gooey goodness.
- Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container, cover it tightly, and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.
Important: Make sure your container is well-sealed to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While the Frozen Candy Avalanche is undeniably a treat, it also contains components that can provide energy and satisfaction. The heavy cream contributes to the creamy texture and provides calcium, while the chocolate and peanut butter from Snickers and Reese’s offer a delightful source of flavor and satisfaction. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation. However, it’s essential to remember that this dessert is high in sugar and calories, so enjoying it as an occasional treat is the key to keeping it a delightful part of your diet.
Common Mistakes and Tips to Perfect the Recipe
To ensure your Frozen Candy Avalanche turns out just right, here are some common mistakes to avoid and tips to elevate your dish:
- Over-whipping the cream: Stop whipping once soft peaks form to avoid a grainy texture.
- Not heat-treating the flour: This step is crucial for safety when consuming raw cookie dough.
- Skipping the chilling step: Make sure to refrigerate the cookie dough before adding it to the ice cream for the best texture.
- Freezing time: Be patient and let the ice cream freeze completely for the best scoopability.
Storage, Serving, and Reheating Tips
Once your Frozen Candy Avalanche is ready, it’s essential to know how to store and serve it properly:
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within two weeks for optimal freshness.
- Serving: Scoop the ice cream into cones or bowls. For an extra treat, top with additional chopped Snickers, Reese’s, or a drizzle of fudge sauce.
- Reheating: If serving from the freezer, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Serving suggestion: Consider garnishing with whipped cream and a cherry on top for a classic sundae feel!
FAQs and Recipe Variations
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Frozen Candy Avalanche, along with some tasty variations you might consider:
Can I use other types of candy?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your candy mix-ins based on your favorites. M&M’s, Kit Kats, or even gummy bears can be fun alternatives.
How do I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk to make a delicious dairy-free version.
Can I make this without the cookie dough?
Yes! If you prefer a simpler treat, you can omit the cookie dough and let the candy take center stage.
- Try adding crushed Oreos for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate seasonal candies, like mint chocolate during the holidays.
- For a nut-free version, substitute Reese’s with caramel-filled candy.
Conclusion
The Frozen Candy Avalanche is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any gathering. With its creamy texture and delightful mix of candy, it’s bound to be a hit with friends and family alike. So unleash your creativity, gather your loved ones, and dive into this sweet treat that promises to deliver a candy-filled ice cream experience like no other. Remember, every scoop is a mini adventure waiting to happen!