Homemade Chocolate-Covered Ice Cream Bars

🍦 Homemade Chocolate-Covered Ice Cream Bars 🍫

Description

These homemade chocolate-covered ice cream bars are creamy, rich, and perfectly coated in a crisp chocolate shell. They are easy to customize with different flavors, nuts, and toppings, making them a delightful summer treat for kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or any flavor of choice)
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 10 oz (about 1 ½ cups) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil (for a smooth coating)

Optional Add-ins/Toppings:

• Crushed nuts (almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts)
• Sprinkles
• Shredded coconut
• Caramel or peanut butter drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ice Cream Base

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
3. Once thick and creamy, transfer the ice cream into a square baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Smooth the top, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Step 2: Cut and Insert Sticks

1. Once frozen solid, remove the ice cream from the dish and cut into rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
2. Insert popsicle sticks into each bar and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Freeze again for at least 1 hour to ensure they are firm before dipping.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly to prevent it from melting the ice cream.

Step 4: Dip the Ice Cream Bars

1. Remove the ice cream bars from the freezer.
2. Quickly dip each bar into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
3. Immediately sprinkle with nuts, coconut, or sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
4. Place the bars back on the parchment-lined tray and freeze for another 30 minutes to set completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Let the bars sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before eating for the best texture.

Notes

• If you don’t have an ice cream maker, use store-bought ice cream, spread it in a pan, and freeze before cutting into bars.
• The coconut oil in the chocolate helps it form a crisp shell; you can also use cocoa butter for a similar effect.
• Work quickly when dipping to prevent the ice cream from melting.

Tips for Success

✅ Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
✅ Chill all utensils and trays to keep the ice cream bars from melting during dipping.
✅ If your chocolate thickens, reheat it in short bursts to keep it smooth.
✅ Store bars in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

Servings

• Makes about 6–8 bars, depending on size.

Nutritional Info (Per Bar, Approximate)

• Calories: 280–320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

Health Benefits

✔ Dark Chocolate Benefits – Rich in antioxidants, may improve heart health.
✔ Calcium from Ice Cream – Supports strong bones.
✔ Customizable Ingredients – You can use dairy-free options for a vegan treat.
✔ No Artificial Preservatives – A healthier alternative to store-bought ice cream bars.

Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)

🔹 Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk-based ice cream and dairy-free chocolate.

🔹 Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Make sure the bars are frozen solid before dipping, and let the chocolate cool slightly before use.

🔹 Q: Can I use white chocolate instead?
Absolutely! Melted white chocolate with a bit of coconut oil works well, too.

🔹 Q: How long do these last in the freezer?
Stored properly, they stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Would you like any modifications to the recipe, such as different flavors or dietary adjustments? 😊