Description
Ever wished you could add a crunchy, peanutty twist to your favorite ice cream? Say hello to Peanut Butter Shell, a 3.7-star treat from 3 reviews that’s perfect for peanut butter lovers! This quick, no-fuss topping transforms soft ice cream into a delightful dessert with a hard, nutty shell that cracks when you dig in.
Ingredients
- For the Shell:
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter (creates a rich, nutty base).
- ¼ cup virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil or vegetable shortening (helps the shell harden).
- For Serving:
- Chocolate, strawberry, or Neapolitan ice cream (the perfect canvas for the shell).
Why These Ingredients Matter
Smooth peanut butter delivers a creamy, nutty flavor that’s the heart of the shell. Coconut oil or vegetable shortening makes the mixture pourable and helps it harden into a crispy shell when it hits cold ice cream. Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical note, as the recipe notes, while vegetable shortening keeps it neutral. The ice cream choice—chocolate, strawberry, or Neapolitan—complements the peanut butter for a classic dessert vibe.
Substitutions and Variations
- Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture or almond butter for a different nutty flavor. Natural peanut butter works but may separate, so stir well.
- Coconut Oil: Swap for vegetable oil, but the shell may be softer. Butter works but won’t harden as firmly.
- Ice Cream: Try vanilla, banana, or coffee ice cream for new flavor combos. Dairy-free ice cream works for vegan diets.
- Add-Ins: Mix in 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for a chocolate-peanut butter shell or a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.
- Vegan: Use vegan peanut butter and coconut oil (already vegan-friendly) with dairy-free ice cream.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your peanut butter and ice cream are certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Ingredients
- In a microwave-safe medium bowl, combine ½ cup smooth peanut butter and ¼ cup virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil (or vegetable shortening).
- Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and runny (about 1-2 minutes total).
Tip: Stir well to ensure even melting. If you don’t have a microwave, melt in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
Step 2: Cool Slightly
- Let the mixture cool at room temperature for 5 minutes until it’s pourable but not hot.
Tip: Cooling prevents the ice cream from melting too much when you pour the shell. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth.
Step 3: Pour Over Ice Cream
- Scoop your favorite ice cream (chocolate, strawberry, or Neapolitan) into bowls or cones.
- Pour 1-2 tablespoons of the peanut butter mixture over each serving, letting it spread and harden (about 10-20 seconds).
Tip: Pour slowly for an even coating. If using coconut oil, it may take slightly longer to set, as the recipe notes.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve immediately, cracking the shell with a spoon for a fun, crunchy bite.
Tip: Add extra toppings like chopped peanuts or sprinkles before the shell hardens for added flair.