Ice Cream Bread: A Deliciously Easy Recipe
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a unique and surprisingly simple dessert? Look no further than Ice Cream Bread, a delightful treat that combines the creamy indulgence of ice cream with the comforting warmth of bread. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, promising a delightful outcome every time. Let's dive into the delightful world of ice cream bread!
What Makes Ice Cream Bread So Special?
Ice cream bread offers a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. The cool, creamy ice cream melts within the warm, soft bread, creating a symphony of flavors and sensations in your mouth. It's a unique dessert experience that's both comforting and exciting. This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors to create your own signature variations.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is remarkably straightforward, requiring ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: This provides richness and moisture.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread perfectly, balancing the ice cream.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 cups of your favorite ice cream: The star of the show! Choose your favorite flavor for the best results. Consider using a slightly firmer ice cream for easier handling.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked ice cream bread:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures easy removal of the bread once baked.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, resulting in a lighter bread.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in Ice Cream: Gently fold in the ice cream until it's evenly distributed throughout the batter. Don't worry if some ice cream chunks remain.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve. Enjoy the delightful contrast of warm bread and melting ice cream!
Tips for Ice Cream Bread Success:
- Ice Cream Choice: Experiment with different ice cream flavors! Chocolate chip cookie dough, strawberry, and mint chocolate chip are all delicious options.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Storage: Store leftover ice cream bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Add-ins: Get creative! Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar and milk) over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serving: Serve warm or at room temperature. It's delicious on its own, or paired with a scoop of ice cream (why not?).
Enjoy baking and savoring this incredibly delicious and easy Ice Cream Bread! Let us know in the comments which ice cream flavor you choose and how your baking adventure goes!
