Indulge in a luxurious treat that blends the classic flavors of strawberry and banana into a sophisticated ice cream experience with these Strawberry & Banana Magnum Ice Cream Bars. Each bar features a creamy and rich ice cream center, crafted from ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, which come together to create a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile. The luscious fruit base is perfectly complemented by a silky, smooth layer of milk chocolate, which encases the ice cream in a glossy, crackling shell.
As you bite into one of these delectable bars, you’ll experience the delightful contrast between the crisp chocolate coating and the velvety, fruit-infused ice cream inside. The bar’s elegant presentation and irresistible taste make it ideal for a special dessert, a summer treat, or a celebratory indulgence.
The visual appeal is heightened with a beautiful, marbled coating of white chocolate and optional flecks of crushed freeze-dried strawberries, adding both texture and an extra burst of fruity flavor. These Magnum-style bars offer a gourmet twist on a classic combination, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to elevate their ice cream experience with a touch of sophistication and a lot of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- For the Strawberry Banana Ice Cream:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightening flavors)
- For the Coating:
- 1 cup milk chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil (to help with melting and consistency)
- 1/2 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries (optional, for added texture and flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Banana Ice Cream Base:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh strawberries, sliced banana, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Gently fold the strawberry-banana puree into the cream mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into ice cream molds, leaving a small gap at the top for expansion. Insert sticks if using a mold that requires them.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is completely solid.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In separate heatproof bowls, melt the milk chocolate and white chocolate with the coconut oil or vegetable oil. You can do this in a microwave in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between, or using a double boiler over simmering water.
- Stir each chocolate until smooth and fully melted.
- Coat the Ice Cream Bars:
- Once the ice cream is completely frozen, remove the bars from the molds.
- Dip each ice cream bar into the melted milk chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
- For a marbled effect, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the coated bars before the chocolate sets.
- If desired, sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the bars while the chocolate is still wet.
- Return the coated bars to the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the coating to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate coating is firm, your Strawberry & Banana Magnum Ice Cream Bars are ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in the freezer.
Tips:
- Texture and Consistency: For a smoother texture, make sure to blend the fruit thoroughly and mix it well with the cream base. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend the fruit less and fold in small pieces of fruit after mixing.
- Chilling the Coating: If you’re having trouble with the coating setting too quickly, keep the melted chocolate warm and work in small batches.
- Serving: Let the ice cream bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, which will make them easier to bite into.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different fruit combinations or add-ins like nuts or sprinkles to the coating for a personalized touch.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry & Banana Magnum Ice Cream Bars—a delightful treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!
