• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

The Short Order Cook

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Food & Fun
  • Travel & Dining
  • Meet Angela
  • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Food & Fun
    • Travel & Dining
    • Meet Angela
    • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Desserts

    Published: Nov 7, 2022 · Modified: Jan 23, 2023 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

    Candy Bar Ice Cream

    Jump to Recipe

    What is better than your favorite candy bar or ice cream for dessert? Both of them combined for the ultimate frozen treat. The homemade vanilla ice cream is creamy. It is the perfect base to mix in tons of yummy chopped-up chocolate-covered candy bar pieces.

    This recipe is the best way to use up all that leftover Halloween candy. Or grab some of the tons your kids got when trick-or-treating. Will they really miss any? And even if they do, they will thank you for making this yummy ice cream with it.

    Two bowls with scoops of candy bar ice cream ready to eat with a spoon.

    This recipe is great in summer when ice cream cravings hit. It is also great to make after Halloween as I mentioned above. Or make this after any holiday when you have an abundance of candy - Valentine's Day, Christmas, or Easter.

    Honestly, it is so good to make it any time of year. Scoop some for sundaes, serve for birthday cake, blend in a milkshake or flurry, or pile it high in a graham cracker crust and make an ice cream pie.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • How to Make Ice Cream with Candy Pieces
    • Chill & Churn the Ice Cream
    • Mixing in the Chopped Candy
    • How Long to Freeze the Ice Cream
    • Variations
    • Equipment
    • Storage
    • Top tip
    • FAQ
    • Candy Bar Ice Cream

    Ingredients

    This recipe has a vanilla base and uses traditional ice cream ingredients. It is eggless and no custard is cooked for making this recipe. It only takes 5 simple ingredients needed to make candy bar ice cream.

    For the candy bars, use whatever your favorites are. I used Snickers, Milky Way, & 3 Musketeers. But Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kat, 100 Grand, Hershey's, Butterfinger, Almond Joy, or Nestle Crunch will all be amazing. If you make one of my homemade candy recipes like Snickers Fudge or English Toffee, they work great in this recipe too.

    Candy Bar Ice Cream Ingredients on a table.
    • Heavy Cream
    • Whole Milk
    • Sugar
    • Vanilla
    • Candy Bars

    See the recipe card for quantities.

    How to Make Ice Cream with Candy Pieces

    *** Ensure your ice cream maker will be ready to freeze the mixture in about an hour.  This usually means the insert should be in the freezer the night before. ***

    This recipe is for a homemade vanilla ice cream recipe. Once it is churned, the chopped candy pieces are folded into the ice cream. It is finally frozen for a few hours before you can scoop it and enjoy it. Here are the step-by-step instructions to make candy bar ice cream.

    Adding sugar to the cream and milk in a mixing bowl.

    In a medium bowl, add the cream, milk, vanilla, and sugar.

    Whisking together the ingredients in a mixing bowl.

    In a medium bowl, use a whisk to combine the ingredients for the ice cream base.

    Chill & Churn the Ice Cream

    Once the ingredients are mixed together, put the bowl in the freezer for 30 minutes. It is best for the ice cream base to be very cold before adding it to the machine.

    Next, add the chilled vanilla base to the ice cream maker per the instructions for your model. Let it run for 15-30 minutes, times will vary based on your ice cream machine.

    While it is running, chop up the candy cars into small pieces. For the mini-size candies, as you give at Halloween, it is perfect to cut those into 4 tiny pieces.

    Candy Bar Ice Cream Creamy vanilla ice cream ready in the ice cream maker.

    It should be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream and look similar to the photo above.

    Candy Bar Ice Cream Chopped up candy on a plate.

    Chop up the candy pieces to be this size.

    Hint: Keep in mind the candy will be hard when frozen in the ice cream. Do not make the pieces too large or they will be hard to bite. The size shown above works best.

    Mixing in the Chopped Candy

    Once the ice cream is creamy and ready, scoop out ⅓ of the fresh ice cream and place it into a freezer-safe container.  The container needs to be big enough to fit all of it. This recipe makes about 6 cups or 48oz of ice cream.

    Sprinkle the top with chopped candy bar pieces. Using a spoon or spatula, mix and swirl in the candy to distribute evenly.

    Vanilla ice cream in a container with chopped candy bar pieces on a plate.

    Top with another â…“ of the ice cream. Add candy and again mix in. Top with the last bit of ice cream and candy. Mix to combine.

    ixing in the candy pieces to the vanilla ice cream.

    How Long to Freeze the Ice Cream

    Place the container in your freezer to chill. It needs to freeze this for about 3-5 hours.  It will then be ready to serve after it hardens and is scoopable.

    When it reaches the firmness you desire, scoop it into bowls or onto ice cream cones. ENJOY!

    Candy Bar Ice Cream Overhead two scoops in bowls with spoon and unwrapped candies.

    Variations

    This is a versatile recipe. The vanilla ice cream base is simple and classic. Adding the candy bar chunks as a mix-in makes this wonderful dessert what it is. With the chocolate-covered candies used this is a gluten-free recipe. (Snickers - Milky Way - 3 Musketeers) But you can add other candy to personalize it.

    • Twix or Kit Kat- for a cookie crunch, add these candy bars to the ice cream.
    • Fudgy - add jarred hot fudge sauce swirled into the layers.
    • Caramel - add store-bought caramel sauce swirled into the layers.

    If you want a chocolate ice cream version try my Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream. Instead of the mini marshmallows add chopped candy bar pieces instead.

    Overhead scoop in a bowl with spoon and unwrapped mini candy bars.

    Equipment

    To make this ice cream, you need an ice cream maker. This recipe is for churned ice cream with mix-ins so having this piece of kitchen equipment is key. Whether you want to hand churn or buy an electric one that is perfect for home usage, here are some highly-rated & budget-friendly models.

    The Cuisinart is what I have had for almost 20 years and it is still going strong. Plus some great scoops & cute dishes too.

    The Short Order Cook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. This helps with the costs of running the blog. Thank you!

    Candy Bar Ice Cream Sideview of two bowls with scoops.

    Storage

    Ice cream freezes beautifully. Store this ice cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. It is best to enjoy it within 7 days. After that ice crystals may form on the surface.

    This ice cream may freeze in a firm solid mass. To make it easy to scoop, leave it out at room temperature for a few minutes.

    Top tip

    Though this recipe can be doubled or even quadrupled, I suggest only making as much as you and your family will eat within a few days.

    This ice cream is all-natural and has no preservatives or additives. Therefore, it will lose some of its creaminess and get a bit icy the longer it is sitting in the freezer.

    Two bowls of candy bar ice cream scooped and ready to eat.

    FAQ

    Do I need an ice cream maker to make this recipe?

    Yes, this recipe has been created for making in a small household ice cream machine. It has not been tried or tested as a no-churn recipe. The ingredients for this recipe do not lend to the no-churn process of making ice cream.

    Can I use M&Ms in this recipe?

    Almost any type of candy that is in small pieces will work. You can use M&Ms or Reese's Pieces for this ice cream recipe.

    How long does ice cream take in an ice cream maker?

    Each recipe and machine will be different. However, most recipes and household makers churn ice cream in about 15-30 minutes.

    Why is my ice cream not thickening or freezing?

    If you have churned your ice cream according to the manual and it is still not freezing, there can be a few things that are going on. The first possible answer is that the freezer insert for your machine was not frozen properly. If it is not frozen solid, the ice cream will not thicken and become frosty.

    Another possibility is that you do not have enough ice and/or salt. This is the case when you have a machine that requires these for making ice cream.

    Does this ice cream need eggs?

    Eggs are in many recipes for homemade ice cream and custard. However, this is an egg-free recipe.

    overhead single scoop with unwrapped candies.

    Candy Bar Ice Cream

    Angela
    Homemade candy bar ice cream is an easy creamy recipe. This tasty recipe takes a wonderful vanilla ice cream base and adds chopped-up candy bars for a combination of two favorites. Add your favorite candies - Snicker, 3 Musketeers, Milky Way, etc. A great way to use up leftover Halloween candy.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Churning Time 10 mins
    Total Time 20 mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 8

    Equipment

    • ice cream maker

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cups heavy cream
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • ¾ cup sugar
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups chocolate-covered candy bars chopped

    Instructions
     

    • Ensure the ice cream insert has been frozen to the model's instructions. This is usually 12-24 hours minimum.
    • In a medium bowl, use a whisk to beat cream, milk, sugar, & vanilla and beat until combined. 
    • Place the bowl in the freezer for 30 minutes. The more chilled the ice cream base is, the faster it will churn.
    • Get your ice cream machine ready and slowly pour the chilled vanilla mixture into the cold insert. Let your ice cream maker do all the work. While it is churning, chop up the candies per the next step.
      Run the ice cream maker for about 15 minutes or until it is ready. It should be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream and look similar to the photo above.
    • Chop up the candy bars into small pieces. If you have the mini candy bars often given as Halloween treats, those cut into 4 pieces are a good size. Keep in mind the candy will be hard when frozen. Do not make the pieces too large or they will be hard to bite.
    • Scoop out ⅓ of the fresh ice cream and place it into a freezer-safe container.  Sprinkle the top with chopped candy bar pieces. Using a spoon or spatula, mix and swirl in the candy to distribute evenly.
      Top with another ⅓ of the ice cream. Add candy and again mix in. Top with the last bit of ice cream and candy. Mix to combine.
    • Freeze this for about 3-5 hours.  It will then be ready to serve after it chills for hours.
    • When it reaches the firmness you desire, scoop it into bowls or onto ice cream cones. ENJOY!
    • If the ice cream is not consumed all on the first day, it can be stored in the freezer for up to a week. 
      Store in an air-tight container in your freezer. Remove the ice cream about 5 minutes before you want to eat it as homemade ice cream tends to be more solid and dense once frozen all the way through. 

    Notes

    The nutritional information for this recipe will vary based on the kinds of candy bars used to mix in.    The vanilla base is as follows!  
    Nutrition Facts
    Servings: 8
    Amount per serving  
    Calories 197
    % Daily Value*
    Total Fat 12.1g 16%
    Saturated Fat 7.5g 37%
    Cholesterol 44mg 15%
    Sodium 24mg 1%
    Total Carbohydrate 21.2g 8%
    Dietary Fiber 0g 0%
    Total Sugars 20.6g  
    Protein 1.6g  
    Vitamin D 28mcg 139%
    Calcium 54mg 4%
    Iron 0mg 0%
    Potassium 69mg 1%
    *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.
    Keyword Halloween, holiday, kid-friendly, sweet

    « Christmas Eve Box Ideas
    Air Fryer Sweet Potato Slices  »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. May says

      November 07, 2022 at 4:48 pm

      5 stars
      Loaded with snickers and kit kats is how we made it. Really good. We did have to leave it out to scoop it as it was hard but was soft and yum.

      Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Angela the short order cook on a step stool reaching into the top kitchen cupboard.

    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat, drink, & explore all things food. I have been cooking since I could pull up a stool to finally reach the counter. I still rely on my trusty stool every day. I am a former personal chef turned blogger that hopes you find something new & tasty to love while you are here.

    More about me →

    This site has links to products/services that may make us a commission. #ad

    Popular

    • Slow Cooker Corned Beef featured close up
      Slow Cooker Corned Beef
    • A set of black pots and pans.
      Best Pots & Pans for Gas Stove
    • Teriyaki chicken on a stick stacked on a plate with dipping sauce
      Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick
    • Homemade Snickers Bars featured 5 stack
      Homemade Snickers Bars
    • Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup overhead
      Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup
    • Overhead of cast iron skillet with creamy coconut chicken thighs ready to top with cilantro, green onion, and hot sauce.
      Creamy Coconut Chicken 
    • A bun topped with 3-ingredient sloppy joe meat and cheese.
      3-Ingredient Sloppy Joes (Gluten-Free)
    • Best Ever Mango Ice Cream featured two bowls close mango bottom corner
      Best Ever Mango Ice Cream (with Ice Cream Maker)

    The Short Order Cook LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

    #ad The Short Order Cook LLC is an affiliate of ButcherBox. I have been a customer for years and cannot recommend it enough. Great prices & even better meat! Sign up today.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookie Policy
    • Terms of Service
    • Disclosure Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Me
    • Meet Angela
    • Meet the Family

    Copyright © 2023 The Short Order Cook LLC All recipes, photos, and articles on this site are the property of The Short Order Cook LLC. You are welcome to share a photo ONLY with an accompanied do-follow link back to this site. Publishing any items as if they were your own is prohibited.

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.AcceptReject Read Privacy Policy
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT