Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate indulgent treat, Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a frozen dessert that delivers big-time on both nostalgia and luxury. The moment you scoop into its creamy base, swirled with ribbons of fudge, studded with chocolate chips, and dotted with mini peanut butter cups, you’ll realize this is more than just another homemade ice cream—it’s the kind of decadent, layered delight that gets everyone racing back to the freezer for seconds. Whether you make it for a summer barbecue or just because you need a pick-me-up, Moose Tracks Ice Cream is sure to become your new favorite kitchen project.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Moose Tracks Ice Cream is all about those classic, crave-worthy mix-ins—yet every ingredient in the creamy custard base and the mix-ins brings its own special role. From the pure richness of heavy cream down to the playful peanut butter cups, each component is essential for that iconic flavor and texture.

• Heavy cream: The secret to a lusciously rich and scoopable ice cream.
• Whole milk: Balances creaminess while keeping the texture light, not overly heavy.
• Sugar: Sweetens the base and also keeps your ice cream soft enough to scoop.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic backdrop that lets the mix-ins shine.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming.
• Mini peanut butter cups: Chopped for pocketfuls of nutty, chocolatey joy in every bite.
• Fudge sauce: Swirled in for those gooey, decadent streaks Moose Tracks Ice Cream is known for.
• Chocolate chips or chunks: Gives you that satisfying snap and bursts of bittersweet flavor.

How to Make Moose Tracks Ice Cream

Step 1: Make the Ice Cream Base

Start by creating that classic, velvety foundation. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved completely. Don’t rush this part—ensuring the sugar is fully blended results in a smoother final ice cream. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. If you have the patience (and I promise it pays off), leaving it overnight develops an even richer flavor.

Step 2: Churn the Ice Cream

After your base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for a texture that resembles soft serve—a little loose but thick enough to hold its shape. Churning incorporates air, making your Moose Tracks Ice Cream light, airy, and utterly scoopable.

Step 3: Add the Crunch & Cups

Just when your ice cream is almost finished churning (about 3 to 5 minutes before it’s done), sprinkle in the chopped mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. The machine will gently fold these treasures into your ice cream base, distributing those irresistible pockets of flavor that define Moose Tracks Ice Cream. If your machine isn’t strong enough for mix-ins, you can easily fold them in by hand once churning is complete.

Step 4: Swirl the Fudge

Here’s where the fun begins! Spoon half of the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container and drizzle it with half of your fudge sauce. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and fudge sauce. Then, take a butter knife or skewer and gently swirl the fudge into the layers. This creates striking ribbons throughout—every scoop is a surprise!

Step 5: Freeze to Set

For that perfect scoopable texture, cover your ice cream tightly and freeze for at least 4 to 6 hours, until it’s firm. When you’re ready to serve, let Moose Tracks Ice Cream sit on the counter for about 5 minutes so you can easily glide your scoop through all of its delicious layers.

How to Serve Moose Tracks Ice Cream

Garnishes

Take your bowl of Moose Tracks Ice Cream over the top by adding extra chopped peanut butter cups, a drizzle of warm fudge, or a shower of chocolate shavings. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or roasted peanuts adds even more texture and balances the sweetness. The trick is to echo those flavors already in the ice cream for that true wow factor.

Side Dishes

Want to create a full-on dessert experience? Serve your Moose Tracks Ice Cream alongside fresh-baked brownies, crisp waffle cones, or even layered into a freshly made ice cream sandwich. It also pairs beautifully with fresh strawberries or raspberries, adding a bright, tart counterpoint to the rich chocolate and peanut butter.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to make dessert even more memorable, try presenting Moose Tracks Ice Cream in mini mason jars, chocolate-dipped cones, or layered as a parfait with cookie crumbles and extra fudge. Ice cream cakes or brownie sundaes with a scoop of Moose Tracks Ice Cream at the center will definitely steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, keep your Moose Tracks Ice Cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent any ice crystals from forming. Press a layer of plastic wrap or parchment directly against the surface before sealing—this little trick helps maintain that ultra-creamy texture.

Freezing

Proper freezing is vital to preserve all those amazing swirls and mix-ins. Store Moose Tracks Ice Cream in the coldest spot in your freezer, away from the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations. It’s best enjoyed within two weeks for the freshest flavor and perfect texture, though let’s be honest—it rarely lasts that long!

Reheating

Okay, you obviously don’t want to reheat ice cream, but if yours becomes a bit too hard in the freezer, just set the container on your counter for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping. This gives you a perfectly soft, creamy scoop—no microwaving required.

FAQs

Can I make Moose Tracks Ice Cream without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! Prepare the base as directed, then pour it into a freezer-safe dish. Freeze for 45 minutes, then mix vigorously with a fork or hand mixer. Repeat every 30 minutes until set, folding in the mix-ins and fudge swirl near the end. The texture won’t be quite as smooth but it’s still deliciously satisfying.

What’s the best fudge sauce to use for Moose Tracks Ice Cream?

A thick, pourable fudge sauce works best—you can use homemade or high-quality store-bought. If it’s too thick, warm it slightly until it’s easy to drizzle and swirl. The fudge ribbons are really what make Moose Tracks Ice Cream so extra-special!

Are there nut-free alternatives?

To make the recipe nut-free, simply use nut-free chocolate candies in place of peanut butter cups. You can also swap in your favorite seed butter cups or even marshmallows for a different twist on the classic Moose Tracks Ice Cream vibe.

How long does homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream last in the freezer?

It’s at its best for 1 to 2 weeks, stored tightly sealed to keep those textures creamy and fresh. Always use a clean scoop and reseal well after each serving—though it usually disappears much faster!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just be sure your ice cream maker is large enough to handle the increased volume. Double everything and churn in batches if needed—everyone will be grateful for a little extra Moose Tracks Ice Cream on hand.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream is a joyful tribute to everything fun and decadent about dessert. If you’ve never had the pleasure of a freshly churned, fudge-swirled scoop, now is the perfect time to discover just how satisfying it is to make (and eat!). Give this recipe a try and watch it disappear—one blissful scoop at a time.