Peanut Butter Reese’s Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ingredients:
12 glazed yeast donuts (such as Krispy Kreme or similar; you may substitute other donuts if desired, but glazed donuts work best)
2 pints of your favorite vanilla ice cream, softened slightly
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, finely chopped (about 12-15 cups)
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ice Cream: Remove the ice cream from the freezer about 30 minutes before you plan to assemble the sandwiches to allow it to soften slightly. This will make it easier to spread and less likely to break the donuts.
2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter and half of the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out 6 of the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a spoon or small spatula, spread a generous layer of the softened vanilla ice cream onto the flat surface of each donut. Try to evenly distribute the ice cream, avoiding excessive amounts that may overflow.
4. Add the Peanut Butter Filling: Place a layer of the peanut butter and Reese's mixture on top of the ice cream in each donut. The amount can vary to your preference.
5. Top with Remaining Donuts: Carefully top each ice cream-filled donut with another glazed donut, gently pressing down to create a sandwich.
6. Chocolate Coating (Optional): Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth. Dip the edges of each ice cream sandwich into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
7. Freeze and Decorate: Place the assembled ice cream sandwiches back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the ice cream to firm up completely. Once frozen, you can garnish with the remaining chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and/or chopped peanuts, if desired.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the freezer about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.