Indulge in the irresistible creaminess of Nutty Buddy Ice Cream, a decadent frozen treat featuring velvety peanut butter and crunchy Nutty Buddy pieces.
Packed with protein from peanut butter and whipping cream, it offers a satisfying, fiber-rich crunch while remaining easy to make at home.
Perfect for quick desserts, family treats, or meal prep, this ice cream is simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
Creamy Nutty Buddy Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan or ice cream pan
- spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cups sweetened condensed milk
- ¾ cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 ¼ cups chopped Nutty Buddy candy bars
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipping Cream: Begin by pouring 2 cups of heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the cream on medium-high speed. Continue whipping for about 4-5 minutes, or until soft peaks begin to form. Soft peaks mean that when you lift the whisk, the cream will hold its shape but still slightly droop. This step is crucial, as properly whipped cream creates the light and airy texture that makes the ice cream so creamy and smooth.
- Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk: Once the cream has reached soft peaks, gradually add 1 ½ cups of sweetened condensed milk to the bowl. Pour it slowly while mixing on low speed to ensure the ingredients blend evenly. The condensed milk adds sweetness and a silky texture, enhancing the creaminess without the need for an ice cream maker. Mix until the mixture is fully smooth and uniform in color, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally with a spatula to incorporate every bit of cream.
- Blend in the Peanut Butter: Next, add ¾ cup of smooth peanut butter to the whipped cream and condensed milk mixture. Peanut butter should be room temperature for easier blending. Using the mixer on low to medium speed, combine the peanut butter with the cream gently. Continue mixing until you achieve a consistent, velvety texture with no streaks of peanut butter. This step not only infuses the ice cream with rich flavor but also contributes natural protein and healthy fats, enhancing its nutritional value.
- Fold in Nutty Buddy Pieces: Now it’s time to add the fun crunch. Take 1 ¼ cups of chopped Nutty Buddy candy bars and fold them into the mixture using a large spatula. Gently fold rather than stirring vigorously to preserve the airiness of the whipped cream. Folding ensures that the crunchy pieces are evenly distributed without collapsing the whipped texture, giving each bite a delightful balance of creamy ice cream and chocolate-peanut crunch.
- Transfer to Freezer Pan: Once everything is combined, transfer the ice cream mixture into a 9×5 inch loaf pan or any suitable ice cream pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top for an even freeze. This ensures that every scoop will have consistent texture and Nutty Buddy pieces throughout.
- Freeze Until Firm: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer. Allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4 hours, but ideally 6 hours for the firmest texture. During this time, the mixture will set into a creamy, scoopable ice cream. Avoid disturbing it during freezing, as repeated thawing and refreezing can alter the texture.
- Prepare for Serving: Before serving, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This slight thawing makes it easier to scoop and enhances the creamy texture. Use a warmed ice cream scoop or dip your scoop in hot water for smoother, effortless portions.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions into bowls or cones, making sure each serving has a mix of creamy ice cream and crunchy Nutty Buddy pieces. For an extra touch, garnish with additional chopped candy bars, a drizzle of chocolate, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use room-temperature peanut butter for easier blending and smoother texture.
- Chop Nutty Buddy bars to your preferred size—larger pieces add crunch, smaller pieces create even distribution.
- Do not overmix at any step to preserve the whipped cream’s airy texture.
- Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- This recipe requires no ice cream maker, making it simple and fuss-free for home cooks.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or vanilla extract to enhance sweetness.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Ice Cream
The key to perfectly smooth and creamy Nutty Buddy Ice Cream is gentle handling at each step.
Whipping the cream to the correct stiffness is critical; under-whipped cream leads to a loose texture, while over-whipped cream can become grainy.
When folding in Nutty Buddy pieces, use a gentle motion to avoid deflating the whipped mixture.
Room-temperature peanut butter blends more evenly, creating a consistent flavor throughout.
For added richness, try lightly toasting chopped candy pieces before folding them in, which enhances their nutty flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
Serving Suggestions For Family Favorites
Nutty Buddy Ice Cream is a versatile dessert that works in multiple ways.
Serve it in bowls with extra chopped candy bars on top for a family-friendly treat, or use it to fill ice cream sandwiches with chocolate cookies for an indulgent snack.
It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
For parties, scoop into small cones or mini dessert cups for easy serving.
Its rich peanut butter flavor complements both chocolate and fruit-based desserts, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Storage Tips To Keep Ice Cream Fresh
To maintain its creamy texture, store Nutty Buddy Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer.
Place a layer of parchment or wax paper on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing, as this can affect texture and taste. Properly stored, the ice cream stays fresh for up to two weeks.
When serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to make scooping easier, ensuring a smooth, velvety experience each time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works, but it may create a slightly grainier texture. To maintain smoothness, stir gently to avoid breaking up the whipped cream too much.
2. Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
No, this recipe is designed to be no-churn, making it easy for home cooks. The whipped cream provides natural aeration for a creamy, scoopable texture.
3. How long should I let it freeze?
Freeze for at least 4 hours, ideally 6 hours, to achieve a firm texture. For best results, cover the container to prevent freezer burn.
4. Can I substitute Nutty Buddy candy bars?
Absolutely! Other peanut butter chocolate bars or your favorite chocolate snacks can be chopped and folded in. Just ensure they are dry to prevent extra moisture.
5. Can I make this ahead of time for parties?
Yes, this ice cream is ideal for make-ahead desserts. Prepare up to a day in advance and keep tightly covered in the freezer. Just let it soften a few minutes before serving for easy scooping.
