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Caramel Peanut Crunch Ice Cream Bars with peanuts and caramel drizzle

Caramel Peanut Crunch Ice Cream Bars

Indulge in creamy ice cream bars with a satisfying crunch of peanuts, all wrapped in rich caramel, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 bars
Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Caramel

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup salted butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Ice Cream Base

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped

Instructions
 

Preparing the Caramel

  • Add the sugar to a small saucepan and cook over medium to medium-high heat, whisking constantly until it melts into a deep amber caramel.
  • Stir in the butter until fully melted and smooth, then reduce the heat slightly. Pour in the heavy cream little by little, mixing well until the caramel is glossy and combined.
  • Remove from the heat and let it cool completely until slightly thickened.

Making the Ice Cream Base

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, half-and-half, and half of the cooled caramel until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold the whipped cream into the caramel-condensed milk mixture to make a smooth no-churn ice cream base.
  • Fold in the chopped peanuts so they are evenly spread throughout.
  • Spoon in the remaining caramel a little at a time and lightly swirl it through the mixture with a knife or fork. Do not overmix, so the caramel stays in ribbons.

Freezing the Bars

  • Transfer the mixture into ice cream bar molds, insert wooden sticks, and freeze uncovered for 3 to 5 hours, or until fully firm.
  • You can also use a parchment-lined 9 x 13-inch baking dish instead of molds.
  • Remove from the molds and serve immediately. For extra flavor, top with more caramel and chopped peanuts.

Notes

These bars can be stored in a covered freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Keyword caramel, ice cream bars, No-Churn Ice Cream, Peanuts, Summer Treat