Get ready to dive into the ultimate peanut butter and chocolate experience with this Reese’s Ice Cream Cake. Great for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, this dessert combines creamy ice cream with crunchy Reese’s cups for a treat that’s impossible to resist.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a no-bake dessert.
- Uses simple ingredients for a decadent result that looks like it came from a professional bakery.
- Perfect for making ahead, saving you time on the day of your event.
- Customizable with different ice cream flavors or toppings to suit any taste.
- The crunchy peanut butter cups add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups crushed chocolate cookies
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1.5 cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- 1 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
- Whipped cream for topping
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the crushed chocolate cookies with the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to create an even layer. Chill in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.
Layer the Ice Cream
Spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the chilled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Make sure to work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting too much. Freeze for at least 1 hour until firm.
Add the Peanut Butter Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Carefully spread this over the frozen ice cream layer. Sprinkle half of the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the peanut butter layer. Freeze again for another hour.
Top with Hot Fudge and More Reese’s
Drizzle the warmed hot fudge sauce over the peanut butter layer, then sprinkle the remaining chopped Reese’s cups on top. Freeze the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to ensure it’s fully set.
Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to make slicing easier. Top with whipped cream and additional Reese’s cups if desired. Slice, serve, and watch as everyone falls in love with this decadent dessert.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more decadent cake, consider using chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cookie crust instead of making your own. To prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly while assembling, work in a cool kitchen or even place your mixing bowl in another bowl of ice. For a smoother peanut butter layer, microwave the peanut butter for a few seconds to soften it before mixing with the powdered sugar.
Recipe Variations
- Try using different ice cream flavors like chocolate or cookies and cream for a twist on the classic.
- Swap out Reese’s cups for other peanut butter candies or even chocolate chips for a different texture.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce along with or instead of the hot fudge for a caramel peanut butter flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, mix some chopped nuts into the crust or sprinkle them between layers.
- Make mini ice cream cakes using muffin tins for individual servings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without a springform pan?
Yes, you can use a regular cake pan or even a pie dish, but a springform pan makes it much easier to remove the cake for serving. If using a regular pan, you might need to let it sit at room temperature a bit longer to loosen the edges before attempting to remove it.
How far in advance can I make this ice cream cake?
You can make this ice cream cake up to a week in advance. Just make sure it’s well covered to prevent freezer burn. It’s actually better if made a day or two ahead, as it gives the flavors more time to meld together.
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
While you can use natural peanut butter, keep in mind that it might not set as firmly as conventional peanut butter because of the oil content. If you do use natural peanut butter, you might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency.
Summary
This Reese’s Ice Cream Cake is the perfect dessert for any peanut butter and chocolate lover. Easy to make ahead and customizable to your taste, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With layers of cookie crust, ice cream, peanut butter, and Reese’s cups, every bite is a delicious combination of textures and flavors.
