If you’ve got a sweet tooth and a love for fun treats, then you’re in for a real treat! These Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious flavors. Let’s dive into this classic summer dessert with a twist!
What Are Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars?
Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars are a delightful mix of peanut butter, chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, all packed into an irresistible ice cream bar. Think of it as a campfire s’more turned into a cool, creamy dessert that you can enjoy any time of the year!
These bars are not just easy to make but also perfect for summer BBQs or cozy movie nights. Plus, they’re halal-friendly, so everyone can enjoy them guilt-free!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before getting started, make sure you gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you need:
For the Ice Cream Layer:
- 4 cups of vanilla ice cream (make sure it’s halal!)
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter (look for halal-certified brands)
- 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips
For the S’mores Topping:
- 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup of mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (again, ensure they’re halal)
For the Chocolate Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (to help smooth the chocolate)
How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Dish
Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the bars out later.
Step 2: Create the Base Layer
- In a large bowl, mix the vanilla ice cream and peanut butter until it’s all smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens; peanut butter and chocolate just go hand-in-hand!
- Spread this mixture evenly in your lined baking dish. Make sure to pack it down nicely!
Step 3: Add the S’mores Topping
- In another bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips.
- Sprinkle this s’mores mixture over the peanut butter ice cream layer. It’s okay if it gets a little messy—that just means more deliciousness!
Step 4: Freeze It
Pop the dish into the freezer and let it sit for at least 4 hours, or until it’s totally firm. Patience is key here!
Step 5: Drizzle Some Chocolate
- Once your bars are nice and firm, remove them from the freezer.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s smooth.
- Drizzle this chocolate over the top of your bars. Go fancy or go wild—it’s up to you!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the dish. Slice them into squares or rectangles, and there you have it—your very own Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars!
Tips for Success
- Serve Right Away: These bars are best served right after slicing. If they sit out too long, they’ll melt away.
- Customize Your Toppings: Got some leftover candies? Toss them in! You can mix in anything from crushed nuts to caramel bits if you want to jazz things up.
- Storage: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Variations to Try
Nutty Chocolate Version
Swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter. You’ll still get that nutty goodness but with a different flavor twist!
Fruity Delight
Add crushed strawberries or blueberries into the ice cream mixture for some fruity freshness. This is perfect for summer gatherings!
S’mores Cookie Bars
Instead of making ice cream bars, you can bake a cookie base and layer everything atop it for a more cookie-like dessert. Just bake the cookie dough for about 10-15 minutes, let it cool, and then layer the ice cream and toppings on top!
Why You’ll Love These Bars
These Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars aren’t just tasty; they’re a total crowd-pleaser. They bring together the joy of s’mores with the coolness of ice cream. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just wanting a yummy treat after dinner, these bars are sure to hit the spot!
Plus, they’re super easy to make. Perfect for kids to help out in the kitchen or for those days when you want to impress your friends without putting in too much effort.
FAQs About Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars
Can I use non-dairy ice cream?
Absolutely! If you want a vegan version or just prefer non-dairy options, there are plenty of delicious halal non-dairy ice creams out there to choose from.
How do I make these bars without marshmallows?
If you’re looking for a marshmallow substitute, you can try using whipped coconut cream or simply leave them out if you don’t mind missing that chewy texture.
How should I store the bars?
Keep them in an airtight container in the freezer. Just cut out what you want each time and refreeze the rest!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Definitely! These bars can be made a few days in advance. Just keep them tightly sealed in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
So there you have it! Making Peanut Butter S’mores Smash Ice Cream Bars is not only easy but super fun, too! With a little bit of time spent in the kitchen, you’ll whip up an incredible dessert that everyone will adore. The combination of flavors, textures, and delightful gooeyness makes this treat a must-try. So go ahead, get your ingredients, and start smashing — your taste buds will thank you!
