Say hello to your new favorite guilt-free treat: Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream. With all the creamy decadence and chocolate-peanut butter swirls of classic Moose Tracks, this version packs in a powerhouse of protein and keeps sugar to a minimum. You’ll love every cool, chocolate-studded bite, whether you’re fueling up after a workout or satisfying a late-night craving. It’s the best of both worlds—the nostalgia of your favorite childhood ice cream and the nutritious boost your body craves!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream is delightfully simple, and each ingredient plays a key role in creating irresistible flavor and dreamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a single item!
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: The perfect low-calorie, dairy-free base that lets every other flavor shine while keeping things creamy.
- Chocolate or Vanilla Protein Powder: Brings a hefty protein boost and acts as the backbone of your creamy mixture—pick your favorite based on your mood!
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (if using vanilla protein): Lends deep, chocolaty richness, transforming vanilla protein into a classic Moose Tracks vibe.
- Powdered Peanut Butter: All the creamy peanut butter flavor without the heaviness—plus, it blends in beautifully for smooth perfection.
- Xanthan Gum (optional, for creaminess): This magic little addition makes your ice cream unbelievably smooth and scoopable.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings all the flavors together and gives the ice cream its signature bakery aroma.
- Pinch of Salt: Just enough to amplify all the sweet and nutty goodness—never underestimate a pinch of salt!
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Classic Moose Tracks calls for a bit of chocolate crunch, and these tiny morsels deliver in every bite.
- Peanut Butter Cups (chopped): Generous chunks are the heart and soul of Moose Tracks—don’t skimp!
- Sweetener of Choice (like stevia or monk fruit): Customizable sweetness to suit your taste and keep things extra healthy.
- Ice (if using a blender method): The secret to instant, soft-serve style ice cream when you want it right now.
How to Make Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream
Step 1: Blend Your Base
Start by grabbing your blender and adding the almond milk, protein powder, cocoa powder (if using vanilla protein), powdered peanut butter, xanthan gum, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and your favorite sweetener. Blend everything on high until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. Take a little taste—this is your moment to adjust sweetness or add a dash more vanilla if your heart desires.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
If you’re going old-school with an ice cream maker, pour your blended mixture into a bowl and let it chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes. This quick step helps the ice cream freeze with a smoother, creamier texture (and it gives your mix-ins a little more crunch!). If you’re using a blender-only method, you can skip straight to the next step.
Step 3: Churn or Blend Until Creamy
Pour your chilled base into the ice cream maker and let it churn according to your machine’s instructions. You’ll notice the mixture thickening into that classic ice cream scoopable texture. If you’re using a blender, just toss in a handful of ice and blend until you reach a thick, frosty consistency—it’s amazing how fast it comes together!
Step 4: Add the Signature Moose Tracks Mix-Ins
This is the fun part: As the ice cream finishes churning (or right after blending), gently fold in your mini chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups. These tasty bites give you those classic Moose Tracks swirls you know and love. You can even swirl in a little extra natural peanut butter—because in Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream, there’s no such thing as too much peanut butter.
Step 5: Freeze or Serve
If you love your ice cream super soft and creamy, dig in right away for a soft serve experience! Prefer it firmer? Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2–4 hours. When you’re ready to serve, let it sit at room temp for a few minutes to make scooping easier. Every spoonful is pure protein-powered bliss!
How to Serve Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream
Garnishes
Make each bowl a mini celebration by sprinkling extra chocolate chips, a drizzle of melted peanut butter, or a few more chopped peanut butter cups on top. For an extra touch, a pinch of flaky sea salt or a swirl of whipped coconut cream really takes your Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream over the top.
Side Dishes
Pair your protein ice cream with crisp apple slices, a homemade protein brownie, or even a scoop of Greek yogurt. These simple sides balance the richness and make snack time or dessert feel extra special—plus, they sneak in more nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the bowl and serve Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream nestled in a protein waffle cone, sandwiched between two healthy cookies, or as the “nice cream” layer in a parfait. For a party, swap out bowls for mason jars and top with fresh berries—a wow-worthy display that’s deceptively easy to assemble.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve had your fill, transfer any leftover Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream to an airtight container and store it in the freezer. Place a piece of parchment or wax paper directly on the surface before sealing—it helps prevent those pesky ice crystals from forming and keeps your ice cream luscious.
Freezing
For best results, freeze for up to two weeks. The protein and peanut butter add natural creaminess, but because there’s less fat and sugar than traditional ice cream, it’ll freeze harder. Let it rest at room temp for 5–10 minutes before scooping, and you’re golden.
Reheating
If your ice cream gets a little too firm, there’s no need for the microwave! Just leave it on the counter for a few minutes, then dunk your spoon in warm water before scooping. You’ll get smooth, scoopable Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream every single time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! Oat, cashew, or regular dairy milk all work beautifully here; just choose according to your dietary needs and favorite flavor. Keep in mind that creamy milks yield a richer texture.
Is Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream gluten free?
It sure is—just double-check your chocolate chips and peanut butter cups to confirm they’re gluten free, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. Most main ingredient options are naturally gluten-free.
Do I need an ice cream maker?
Nope! The blender method gives you a quick, soft-serve version that’s still super satisfying. For the absolute creamiest texture, an ice cream maker helps, but it isn’t essential to make truly fabulous Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream.
What can I use instead of xanthan gum?
If you don’t have xanthan gum, simply leave it out—it’s optional! Alternatively, you can try a pinch of guar gum, or use a protein powder blend that already has thickeners for that extra-smooth, creamy vibe.
Can I make it vegan?
Definitely. Choose a plant-based protein powder, dairy-free chocolate chips, and vegan peanut butter cups—there are plenty of fantastic options out there, so you can enjoy Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream while sticking to a vegan lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a treat that feels indulgent but fuels you with every spoonful, you have to try Moose Tracks Protein Ice Cream. It’s creamy, chock-full of chocolate and peanut butter, and comes together in a snap. Go on—spoon up your own batch and share a scoop with your favorite people!
