If you love the irresistible blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream is about to become your new obsession. This decadent dessert combines velvety ice cream with chunks of peanut butter cups for the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey goodness. Whether you make it no-churn at home or use an ice cream maker, this recipe guarantees a scoop of pure indulgence every time.
🥜 A Sweet History: Peanut Butter + Chocolate Love Story
The marriage of peanut butter and chocolate dates back to the early 20th century, when candy maker H.B. Reese created the world-famous Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in 1928. Since then, the duo has taken over everything from cakes and brownies to milkshakes and, of course, ice cream. Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream is now a favorite flavor in ice cream shops around the world because it combines nostalgic candy with creamy frozen perfection.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up a batch of creamy peanut butter cup ice cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream (for rich, creamy texture)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or substitute monk fruit/erythritol for low-sugar version)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (avoid overly oily natural kinds)
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups (freeze before chopping to keep shape)
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate syrup, caramel swirls, pretzels, or brownie chunks
👉 Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream + oat milk.
👉 Vegan Version: Swap peanut butter cups with dairy-free chocolate peanut butter candies.
🍨 Step-by-Step Recipe
Method 1: No-Churn (Beginner-Friendly)
- In a bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix condensed milk, vanilla, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold whipped cream into peanut butter mixture.
- Layer mixture into a loaf pan, sprinkling chopped peanut butter cups between layers.
- Freeze 6–8 hours until firm.
Method 2: Ice Cream Maker (Ultra-Creamy)
- Heat milk, sugar, and peanut butter in a saucepan until smooth (do not boil).
- Let mixture chill completely.
- Pour into ice cream maker and churn until thick and creamy.
- Add chopped peanut butter cups in the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Transfer to container and freeze for 4–6 hours before serving.
⭐ Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
- Freeze peanut butter cups before chopping to avoid melting into the base.
- Swirl slightly melted peanut butter through the ice cream before freezing for a ripple effect.
- Add egg yolks for a custard-style base (extra creamy & rich).
- For crunchy bites, toss in crushed pretzels or Oreo cookies.
🍦 Variations You’ll Love
- Vegan Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream – Coconut cream + dairy-free peanut butter cups.
- Keto-Friendly Version – Sugar-free peanut butter, stevia, and keto chocolate cups.
- Protein Ice Cream – Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate whey protein + PB2 (powdered peanut butter).
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Mix in brownies, hot fudge, or cocoa powder.
🥄 Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Scoop into waffle cones or chocolate-dipped bowls.
- Drizzle with hot fudge, caramel, or melted peanut butter.
- Pair with warm brownies or cookies for the ultimate dessert.
- Garnish with extra chopped peanut butter cups for wow-factor.
❄️ Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Cover surface with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals.
- Best enjoyed within 2–3 weeks for maximum freshness.
📊 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 6g
(Will vary depending on add-ins and substitutions.)
❓ FAQs About Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
1. Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes! The no-churn method is simple and requires just a mixer and freezer.
2. What kind of peanut butter works best?
Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture. Avoid natural kinds that separate too much.
3. Can I substitute almond or cashew butter?
Absolutely! Any nut butter works—just pair with matching nut-based candies.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most peanut butter cups contain gluten. Use certified gluten-free candies if needed.
5. How long does it last in the freezer?
Up to 3 weeks when stored in an airtight container.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream is more than just dessert—it’s comfort in a scoop. Whether you’re making it no-churn at home, experimenting with vegan swaps, or going all-in with brownies and caramel swirls, this ice cream guarantees indulgence in every bite.
Next time you crave a frozen treat, skip the store-bought pint and whip up your own. Your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to share) will thank you. 🍦✨
