Peanut Ice Cream Dessert
A rich, indulgent peanut ice cream dessert layered with chocolate wafers, creamy vanilla ice cream, and topped with salted peanuts—perfect for special occasions or summer treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press the crushed chocolate wafers mixed with melted oleo into a 9 x 13-inch cake pan to form the crust.
- Spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the wafer crust.
- In a saucepan, mix powdered sugar, chocolate chips, oleo, and milk.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Pour the cooled chocolate mixture over the ice cream layer.
- Top with one pound of salted Spanish peanuts.
- Freeze the dessert until firm and ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you prefer a crunchier texture, swap out some of the salted Spanish peanuts for chopped almonds or pecans. Ensure the vanilla ice cream is softened for easier spreading. You can also mix in a layer of caramel sauce between the ice cream and chocolate for added sweetness. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Peanut Ice Cream Dessert alongside fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Apel's Cranberry Bread for a delightful contrast in flavors. Consider adding whipped cream on top for an extra touch. For a fun twist, serve it in individual cups instead of a whole pan for easy portioning.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness. It’s best consumed within two weeks for optimal texture and flavor. When ready to serve, allow the dessert to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly before slicing for easier serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Ice Cream Dessert contains roughly 801 calories, with 5g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ice cream?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla ice cream with other flavors such as chocolate or coffee for a unique twist. Just make sure the ice cream is soft enough to spread easily over the crust. Keep in mind that different flavors may pair better with the chocolate and peanut toppings.
How long does it take to freeze?
The dessert typically takes about 4-6 hours to freeze solid, but for best results, freeze it overnight. This ensures that the layers set properly and the dessert is easy to cut into squares when serving.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is great for making in advance. You can prepare it a day or two ahead of your event, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Just remember to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).