Decadent Oreo Ice Cream Bars
Indulge in this mouth-watering frozen dessert that combines the classic crunchiness of Oreo cookies with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with a rich chocolate ganache. Adapted from a cherished family recipe, these ice cream bars offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a show-stopper at any gathering. Enjoy the nutty hint of salted peanuts for an optional gourmet touch.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oreo cookies
18 ounces (crushed)
butter
1 cup (melted and divided)
vanilla ice cream
1/2 gallon (sliced into strips)
salted peanuts
1.5 cups (optional, pressed into ice cream)
semi-sweet chocolate chips
2/3 cup
powdered sugar
2/3 cup
evaporated milk
1.5 cups
vanilla
1 teaspoon
Instructions
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1. Prepare the Cookie Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies until fine. Melt 1/2 cup of butter and mix it thoroughly with the crushed cookies. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the freezer to set.
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2. Add the Ice Cream Layer: Slice the square-shaped vanilla ice cream into even strips. Lay these strips over the chilled cookie crust, forming an even layer. Gently press the salted peanuts into the ice cream for added flavor, if desired. Return the pan to the freezer to solidify.
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3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chocolate chips, powdered sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and evaporated milk. Stir continuously and gently bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 8 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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4. Finalize the Dessert: Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly, then pour it over the frozen ice cream layer, spreading evenly. Place the pan back into the freezer until the chocolate topping is completely set.
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5. Serve: Once the dessert is fully frozen, cut it into squares. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before cutting and serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Oreo Ice Cream Bars?
Decadent Oreo Ice Cream Bars are a frozen dessert featuring an Oreo cookie crust, a layer of vanilla ice cream with optional peanuts, and a rich chocolate ganache topping.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
What ingredients are needed for the Oreo crust?
You will need 18 ounces of crushed Oreo cookies and 1/2 cup of melted butter.
What size pan should I use for these ice cream bars?
A 9x13-inch pan is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the vanilla ice cream layer?
Slice the square-shaped vanilla ice cream into even strips and lay them over the chilled cookie crust.
Are peanuts required for this recipe?
No, salted peanuts are an optional gourmet touch for added flavor and texture.
What type of chocolate is used for the ganache?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
How long should the chocolate ganache boil?
The ganache mixture should be boiled for about 8 minutes while stirring continuously.
What kind of milk is used in the chocolate topping?
The topping requires 1.5 cups of evaporated milk.
When should I add the vanilla extract to the topping?
Add the vanilla extract after removing the boiled chocolate mixture from the heat.
Does the crust need to be baked?
No, this is a no-bake crust that sets in the freezer.
Can I use different cookies for the crust?
While Oreos are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other sandwich cookies if desired.
How should I serve the Oreo Ice Cream Bars?
Once fully frozen, cut them into squares. You may let the pan sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make cutting easier.
How much ice cream do I need in total?
The recipe requires 1/2 gallon of vanilla ice cream.
What is the total amount of butter used in the entire recipe?
A total of 1 cup of butter is used, divided between the crust and the chocolate topping.
Should the chocolate ganache be hot when poured over the ice cream?
The chocolate mixture should cool slightly before being poured over the frozen ice cream layer.
Can I substitute powdered sugar in the ganache?
The recipe specifies powdered sugar to ensure a smooth texture in the chocolate topping.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in the freezer in an airtight container or covered pan.
How many Oreos are in 18 ounces?
18 ounces typically corresponds to one standard-sized package of Oreo cookies.
What is the preparation for the Oreo cookies?
The Oreo cookies should be crushed until they are fine crumbs.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of salted peanuts?
The recipe calls for whole or chopped salted peanuts pressed into the ice cream; peanut butter would change the texture significantly.
Is this a good dessert for parties?
Yes, it is described as a show-stopper and is categorized as a party dessert.
What prevents the ice cream from melting when the ganache is added?
Freezing the ice cream layer thoroughly and letting the ganache cool slightly helps prevent excessive melting.
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead?
Yes, though semi-sweet is recommended to balance the sweetness of the ice cream and Oreos.
How long does it take for the final dessert to set?
It should be placed in the freezer until the chocolate topping is completely set and the bars are firm.
Do I need an electric mixer?
No, the recipe can be prepared by hand-mixing and using a saucepan on the stove.
What is the texture of the finished dessert?
It offers a blend of crunchy cookie crust, creamy ice cream, and a rich, smooth chocolate ganache.
How do I ensure the crust doesn't crumble?
Ensure the 1/2 cup of melted butter is thoroughly mixed with the crumbs and pressed firmly into the pan.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, feel free to add extra cookie crumbs or a drizzle of caramel if you wish to customize it.
Is this recipe easy to scale?
Yes, you can double the ingredients for a larger gathering, provided you have additional 9x13-inch pans.