Irresistible 3Ingredient Peppermint Ice Cream Bars Recipe

 

There’s something absolutely magical about the holidays that makes my heart swell with delight. The twinkling lights, the smell of pine trees, and the laughter of family gathering around the table all remind me of my childhood. But let’s be honest: the star of the show has often been dessert! One treat that has stood the test of time in my family is peppermint ice cream. Oh, how the rich, creamy texture mixed with that refreshing burst of mint never fails to spread joy. That’s why I’m so excited to share this easy-to-make recipe for Three-Ingredient Peppermint Ice Cream Bars. Trust me, these bars taste just as delightful as they sound and are perfect for any holiday soirée or cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only three simple ingredients! Seriously, what could be easier?
• No ice cream maker required — just a bit of patience while they set.
• Deliciously creamy and refreshing, making them a perfect treat any time of year.
• Perfect for gatherings, as they can be made ahead of time and enjoyed by everyone.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the fun part, let’s grab our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream (softened at room temperature for about 10 minutes)
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes for a festive twist)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (use dark or semi-sweet; both are fabulous!)

Note: Soften your ice cream just enough to stir easily but don’t let it melt—nobody likes slushy bars!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients at the ready, let’s get our hands a little messy and whip up these peppermint ice cream bars!

1. Prepare your pan: Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish, and line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the bars easily once they’re set.
2. Mix it up: In a large bowl, stir together the softened vanilla ice cream and half of the crushed peppermint candies. This is when the magic starts to happen—imagine the sweet minty aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Pour and spread: Transfer the ice cream mixture into the lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, pressing down slightly to pack it in. You want these bars to hold together well!
4. Add the chocolate: Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top of your ice cream layer. Then, sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies on top for that extra crunch and festive touch.
5. Freeze: Carefully cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil, and pop it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm. Patience is key here! I know it’s tempting to sneak a spoonful, but trust me, it’ll be worth it.

Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can freeze them for less time, but the bars won’t be as firm—just be ready for a little more melting magic during serving!

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling a bit adventurous? Here are some fun twists to personalize your Three-Ingredient Peppermint Ice Cream Bars:

• Mint chocolate chip: Use mint-flavored ice cream instead of vanilla for an extra minty punch!
• Different toppings: Get creative! Use crushed Oreo cookies, colorful sprinkles, or even drizzles of caramel to take it up a notch.
• Diet swaps: Looking for a dairy-free option? Use coconut ice cream instead. The subtle coconut flavor pairs beautifully with peppermint!

Encouragement: Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. This recipe is incredibly versatile—it’s practically begging for your personal touch!

Serving Suggestions

Once your ice cream bars have set beautifully, it’s time to serve them up! Here’s how I like to enjoy mine:

• Cut the bars into generous squares or triangles, and arrange them on a festive platter.
• Grab a mug of hot chocolate sprinkled with extra crushed peppermint for a cozy pairing.
• Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat.

Picture this: a cozy family gathering around the table, laughter spilling out as everyone eagerly reaches for a bar. Trust me; it’s a scene you won’t want to miss!

Storage Tips

Wondering how to keep your peppermint ice cream bars fresh? Here’s how:

• Refrigeration: These bars can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re properly covered so they don’t pick up any freezer scents.
• Reheating: No reheating needed—these bars are just as delicious straight from the freezer!
• Serving later: If you’ve cut the bars but want to store them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of candy?

Absolutely! You can use any kind of crushed candy or cookie. Think crumbled chocolate wafer cookies, toffee bits, or even dried fruit for a different twist!

Can I use homemade ice cream?

Of course! If you have a favorite homemade vanilla ice cream recipe, feel free to use that. The process will still be the same, and it’ll be even more special made from scratch!

What if I don’t like peppermint?

No problem! You can swap the peppermint candies for another flavor—think crushed chocolate cookies for a cookies-and-cream version or dried strawberries for a fruity kick!

How long do these bars last in the freezer?

They can last up to 2 weeks, but I guarantee they’ll be gone before that! Just remember to keep them well-covered.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make these Three-Ingredient Peppermint Ice Cream Bars. They’re the perfect blend of simplicity and scrumptiousness! If you decide to try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you add your own twist? Drop a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations! Enjoy every creamy, minty bite, my friend! Happy cooking!