Moose Tracks Ice Cream Recipe: Creamy, Sweet & Irresistible!

There’s nothing quite like a scoop of rich, creamy Moose Tracks ice cream. With its smooth vanilla base, luscious fudge swirls, and chunks of peanut butter cups, this classic treat is a favorite for ice cream lovers everywhere. But what if you could make it at home—completely from scratch?

Homemade Moose Tracks ice cream is not only fresher and more flavorful than store-bought, but it also allows you to customize every element to your liking. Want extra fudge swirls? Go for it.

Prefer dark chocolate peanut butter cups? No problem. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating this iconic dessert in your own kitchen.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from crafting a rich, custard-style vanilla ice cream base to swirling in the perfect amount of homemade fudge.

By the end, you’ll have a batch of creamy, indulgent Moose Tracks ice cream that’s guaranteed to impress.

What Is Moose Tracks Ice Cream?

Moose Tracks ice cream is a beloved flavor known for its irresistible combination of textures and flavors. It features a velvety vanilla ice cream base, a decadent fudge ripple, and chunks of peanut butter cups. The result? A sweet, creamy, and slightly salty masterpiece that keeps you coming back for more.

The Story Behind Moose Tracks

This iconic flavor originated in the 1980s when the founders of Moose Tracks® set out to create an indulgent treat packed with mix-ins. The name itself was inspired by the idea of leaving a “trail” of delicious ingredients throughout the ice cream, much like a moose leaves tracks in the snow. Over the years, it has evolved into a household favorite, with variations featuring different flavors like chocolate, caramel, and even brownie-filled versions.

Why Is It So Popular?

The secret to Moose Tracks’ popularity lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The contrast between creamy vanilla ice cream and the gooey fudge swirl creates a delightful experience with every bite. Meanwhile, the peanut butter cups add a crunchy, chocolatey burst of flavor that takes the indulgence to the next level.

Whether you’ve been a fan for years or are just discovering it for the first time, making Moose Tracks ice cream at home is a game-changer. Next, we’ll dive into the ingredients you need to recreate this delicious treat from scratch.

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect homemade Moose Tracks ice cream, you’ll need three key components: a rich vanilla ice cream base, a decadent fudge swirl, and chunks of peanut butter cups. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor and texture.

For the Vanilla Ice Cream Base

This creamy, smooth base sets the foundation for the mix-ins.

• 2 cups heavy cream (for richness)
• 1 cup whole milk (adds creaminess without being too heavy)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (sweetens the base)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (for classic vanilla flavor)
• 4 large egg yolks (creates a custard-like consistency)

For the Fudge Swirl

This thick, chocolatey swirl is what makes Moose Tracks so indulgent.

• ½ cup cocoa powder (for deep chocolate flavor)
• ½ cup heavy cream (helps create a smooth texture)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the chocolate flavor)

For the Mix-Ins

These add the signature crunch and chocolatey goodness.

• 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped (or your favorite alternative mix-ins)
• ¼ cup chopped chocolate or chocolate chips (optional for extra texture)

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making Moose Tracks ice cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making homemade Moose Tracks ice cream is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for a creamy, delicious result.

1. Prepare the Vanilla Ice Cream Base

The vanilla base is the heart of the recipe, and making it from scratch ensures a silky texture.

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat until warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
3. Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
5. Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps, then chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).

2. Make the Fudge Swirl

While the ice cream base chills, prepare the chocolate fudge ripple.

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the cocoa powder, heavy cream, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the butter and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the fudge sauce cool completely at room temperature before using.

3. Churn the Ice Cream

Once the ice cream base is fully chilled, it’s time to churn it into a creamy texture.

1. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20-25 minutes).
2. When the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, it’s ready for mix-ins.

4. Add Mix-Ins and Fudge Swirl

This is where the magic happens—creating those signature swirls and chunks.

1. Transfer half of the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container.
2. Drizzle half of the fudge swirl over it and sprinkle some chopped peanut butter cups on top.
3. Repeat with the remaining ice cream, fudge swirl, and peanut butter cups.
4. Use a butter knife or spoon to gently swirl the fudge into the ice cream—don’t overmix, or you’ll lose the ripple effect.

5. Freeze and Serve

For the perfect scoopable consistency, the ice cream needs time to set.

1. Cover the container and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until firm.
2. When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
3. Scoop and enjoy your homemade Moose Tracks ice cream with all its creamy, chocolatey, and peanut buttery goodness!

Up next, we’ll share some pro tips to take your homemade ice cream to the next level.

Pro Tips for the Best Moose Tracks Ice Cream

Want to take your homemade Moose Tracks ice cream to the next level? These expert tips will help you achieve a perfectly creamy texture, rich fudge swirls, and the ideal balance of mix-ins.

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Since ice cream is all about rich, creamy flavors, opt for real vanilla extract, high-fat dairy, and quality chocolate. The better the ingredients, the more luxurious your ice cream will taste.

2. Chill Everything Thoroughly

• Ensure your ice cream base is completely chilled before churning—this helps create a smoother, creamier consistency.
• Cool the fudge swirl completely before adding it to avoid melting the ice cream.
• If using an ice cream maker, pre-chill the bowl according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Don’t Overmix the Fudge Swirl

For the best ribboned effect, swirl the fudge in gently with a knife or spatula. Overmixing will blend it too much, losing those signature streaks of chocolate.

4. Layer Mix-Ins Evenly

Instead of stirring the peanut butter cups and fudge into the ice cream, layer them in as you transfer it to a container. This ensures every scoop has an even distribution of flavors.

5. Store Properly for Freshness

• Cover your ice cream with parchment paper or plastic wrap before sealing the lid to prevent ice crystals.
• Store in the coldest part of the freezer (not near the door) to maintain a consistent texture.
• Enjoy within 2-3 weeks for the best taste and texture!

Conclusion

Making Moose Tracks ice cream from scratch is an incredibly rewarding experience. With its creamy vanilla base, rich fudge swirls, and chunks of peanut butter cups, this homemade version is just as good—if not better—than the store-bought kind.

Not only do you get complete control over the ingredients, but you can also customize it to your liking—extra fudge, different mix-ins, or even a chocolate base. Whether you’re making this for a family dessert, a summer treat, or just because you love ice cream, this recipe is sure to impress.

Now that you have the full guide, grab your ingredients and start churning! And if you try this recipe, let us know in the comments how it turned out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Moose Tracks Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?

Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can use a no-churn method:

• Whip 2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• Fold in 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
• Layer in the fudge swirl and peanut butter cups, then freeze until firm.

2. How Long Does Homemade Moose Tracks Ice Cream Last?

Homemade ice cream stays fresh for 2-3 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container. To prevent freezer burn, press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the ice cream before sealing.

3. Can I Use a Chocolate Ice Cream Base Instead of Vanilla?

Absolutely! Swap the vanilla base for a chocolate custard base by adding ½ cup of cocoa powder to the milk mixture before heating. This creates a rich, double-chocolate version of Moose Tracks.

4. What Can I Use Instead of Peanut Butter Cups?

If you want to switch things up, try these alternatives:

• Chopped chocolate-covered almonds
• Caramel-filled chocolates
• Cookie dough pieces
• Swirls of peanut butter or Nutella

5. Why Is My Homemade Ice Cream Too Hard?

Homemade ice cream can freeze harder than store-bought because it lacks stabilizers. To make it softer:

• Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of vodka or corn syrup to the base to improve scoopability.