Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts that combine sweet and salty flavors, this Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Ice Cream will quickly become your new favorite treat. The rich and creamy ice cream base is perfectly complemented by the crunchy, salty pretzels, while the luscious salted caramel adds the ideal level of sweetness. Every bite is a balance of textures and flavors that is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup crushed pretzels

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.

2. Add the vanilla extract and salted caramel sauce to the mixture. Stir until fully combined.

3. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

4. While the ice cream is churning, crush the pretzels into bite-sized pieces. Once the ice cream has finished churning, fold in the crushed pretzels and sea salt.

5. Transfer the ice cream into an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

6. Scoop and serve, enjoying the creamy texture and crunchy pretzel bits.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding freezing time)

• Churning Time: 20-25 minutes

• Freezing Time: At least 4 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: For an added layer of indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the ice cream before serving.

• Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like pecans or almonds along with the pretzels for a different crunch.

• Caramel Swirl: Swirl in more salted caramel sauce after churning for an extra caramel flavor throughout the ice cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. To reheat or soften, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can. To make it without an ice cream maker, simply pour the mixture into a shallow pan and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to prevent large ice crystals from forming, until the mixture is firm.

2. Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

While you can use low-fat milk, the ice cream will be less rich and creamy. For the best texture, whole milk is recommended.

3. How can I make homemade salted caramel sauce?

To make homemade salted caramel sauce, melt 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown. Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir until smooth. Stir in a pinch of sea salt, then let it cool before using in the recipe.

4. Can I use gluten-free pretzels?

Yes, gluten-free pretzels will work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to check the ingredient labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

5. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or any dairy-free alternatives. You can also use a dairy-free salted caramel sauce.

6. How do I know when the ice cream is done churning?

The ice cream should have a thick, soft-serve texture when it’s done churning. If you scoop some out, it should hold its shape without running.

7. Can I use store-bought salted caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought salted caramel sauce for convenience. However, making your own caramel sauce will add a more personalized and fresh taste to the ice cream.

8. How long does it take for the ice cream to freeze?

The ice cream will need at least 4 hours in the freezer to firm up. If you want it firmer, you can leave it overnight.

9. Can I add other mix-ins to the ice cream?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, chopped cookies, or even swirl in some fudge or peanut butter for extra flavor.

10. Can this recipe be made without adding pretzels?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of pretzels, you can omit them and enjoy a rich salted caramel ice cream. You could add a different crunchy element, like crushed toffee or nuts, if you prefer.

Conclusion

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Ice Cream is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and salty flavors. With its creamy base, crunchy pretzels, and luscious salted caramel, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself. This recipe is easy to make, and with the option to customize it with variations, it will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.