After a long week filled with the hustle and bustle of life, I found myself craving a taste of nostalgia a sweet reminder of carefree childhood days. The mere mention of Dunkaroos had me reminiscing about those delicious cookies and frosting snacks that we all adored. That got my creative juices flowing, leading to an irresistible creation: Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream!
In just 10 minutes of preparation, this delightful dessert whips up a creamy, whimsical treat that captures the spirit of those beloved school lunches. With a hint of tang from the cream cheese and a burst of color from rainbow sprinkles, each spoonful feels like a joyous throwback. This no-churn wonder is not only incredibly easy to make but also perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply treating yourself after a busy day. So, let’s dive in and relive those sweet memories one scoop at a time!
Why is Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Nostalgic Delight: This recipe brings back warm memories of childhood lunches, making every scoop a joyful experience.
Quick & Easy: Whipping it up takes just 10 minutes, so you can indulge your cravings in no time!
Kid-Friendly Fun: Rainbow sprinkles and Bunny Grahams add a playful twist, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich, creamy texture—thanks to cream cheese and heavy cream—makes it irresistible.
Versatile Treat: Serve it in cones, bowls, or as a delicious ice cream sandwich filling for endless enjoyment!
Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream Ingredients
• Create the perfect retro treat with these delightful ingredients!
For the Base
- Cream Cheese – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the base; use mascarpone as a substitute for a milder flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Provides structure and a rich, creamy texture; ensure to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; almond extract can be used for a different profile.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; sea salt can be used as a substitute.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Acts as the sweetener and helps create a creamy consistency; no direct substitution recommended for this role.
For the Crunch and Color
- Annie’s Birthday Cake Bunny Grahams – Adds crunch and texture, mimicking the original Dunkaroos; consider using crushed graham crackers if unavailable.
- Rainbow Sprinkles – Provides colorful fun and a festive appearance; can be omitted or substituted with chocolate sprinkles.
This Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream is the ultimate nostalgic dessert bringing joy to your family gatherings or simply brightening up your day!
How to Make Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream
- Mix Together: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese with heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to beat until fluffy and well blended, creating a smooth base.
- Add Flavor: Pour in the pure vanilla extract and sprinkle the kosher salt over the top. Mix until fully incorporated, enhancing the flavor profile of the ice cream.
- Fold in Sweetness: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, folding it gently into the mixture. Keep folding just until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Fun: Gently fold in the chopped Bunny Grahams and rainbow sprinkles. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for delightful texture and color in every scoop.
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 5 hours or until fully solid.
Optional: Serve with extra sprinkles on top for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream?
Treat your family and friends to an unforgettable dessert experience that combines nostalgia with delightful sweetness.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Warm, fresh cookies provide a delightful contrast to the cold ice cream, making each bite a cozy treat.
- Waffle Cones: Crunchy and light, waffle cones transform your ice cream into a fun, handheld delight, perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of freshness and balances the sweetness of the ice cream.
- Mini Brownie Bites: These decadent chocolate treats create a rich, indulgent combo that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the ice cream.
- Peanut Butter Sauce: Drizzle this rich sauce over your ice cream for a nutty depth of flavor that complements the sweetness and adds a delightful twist.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy drink cleanses the palate and enhances the cheerful vibes of this nostalgic dessert.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch harmonizes wonderfully with the sweet and creamy ice cream, creating an irresistible combination.
- Caramel Swirl Pie: A slice of this luscious pie brings an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for those who want to indulge in multiple desserts.
- Rainbow Fruit Skewers: Bright, colorful skewers provide a playful presentation and bring a touch of summer wherever you serve them.
- Milkshakes: A mini malted milkshake on the side makes for a rich, creamy experience that pairs perfectly with this nostalgic ice cream.
How to Store and Freeze Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but for the best flavor and texture, enjoy it straight out of the freezer.
Freezer: Keep the Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. It’s best consumed within the first week to maintain optimal creaminess and avoid ice crystals.
Serving Tips: When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes for easier scooping.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this ice cream, but if it’s too hard, a quick microwave burst (only a few seconds) can soften it gently.
Expert Tips for Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream
- Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth ice cream base.
- Perfectly Whipped Cream: Whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks, ensuring a light and airy texture in your Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream.
- Gentle Folding: Carefully fold in the sweetened condensed milk; overmixing can deflate the whipped cream, resulting in a denser ice cream.
- Fun Add-ins: Feel free to swap out the Bunny Grahams for crushed graham crackers or similar cookies—just avoid giant chunks, which can disrupt the texture.
- Freeze Wisely: For optimal texture, freeze the mixture in a shallow, wide container. This reduces freezing time and helps achieve creaminess.
Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize this creamy delight to match your taste buds!
- Chocolate Twist: Add cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a delightful chocolate version that will satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in crushed nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a richer flavor, transforming the texture beautifully.
- Fruity Addition: Mix in chopped strawberries or bananas to introduce a fresh, fruity flavor that adds sweetness and a little zing to each scoop.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and non-dairy cream cheese to create a creamy, vegan alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- S’mores Style: Replace Bunny Grahams with crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows, capturing that smoky, sweet campfire essence.
- Tropical Vibe: Fold in shredded coconut and a splash of pineapple juice for a refreshing tropical sorbet that’s perfect for summer days.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to bring an unexpected heat that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
- Cake Batter Version: Add cake batter extract and extra sprinkles for a sprinkle overload, evoking the joyful essence of funfetti cake!
Let these variations be your guide to explore and enjoy this nostalgic dessert in exciting new ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream creations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ice cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the preparation steps, up until the freezing stage. Simply mix the cream cheese, heavy cream, vanilla, and sweetened condensed milk, then fold in the Bunny Grahams and rainbow sprinkles. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to indulge, just freeze it for at least 5 hours or until solid. This way, you’ll have a nostalgic and delicious treat at your fingertips, ready to serve whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of cream cheese should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using regular cream cheese rather than low-fat or reduced-fat options, as they can result in a less creamy texture. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, mascarpone cheese is a delightful substitute that adds a luscious creaminess.
How can I tell if my heavy cream is whipped correctly?
You’ll know your heavy cream has been whipped to perfection when it forms stiff peaks. This means that when you lift your beater or whisk out of the cream, the peaks stand straight up without collapsing. Be sure to stop whipping as soon as you reach this stage to avoid curdling.
How long can I store Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream in the freezer?
You can store this delightful ice cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture and flavor, try to enjoy it within the first week. After that, ice crystals may start to form, which can alter the creaminess.
Can I freeze this ice cream for longer than two weeks?
While it’s best consumed within two weeks, you may freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to double wrap the container in plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to eat, just let it soften at room temperature before serving.
What should I do if my mixture is too runny?
If your mixture appears runny before freezing, it’s crucial to revisit your whipped cream. Ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks. Additionally, make sure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened for even mixing. If it doesn’t firm up while freezing, consider adding more crushed Bunny Grahams to help bulk it up.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
To make this Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream gluten-free, simply swap the Bunny Grahams with gluten-free cookie crumbles or gluten-free graham crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a fun treat for those avoiding gluten!
Dunkaroos No-Churn Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese with heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to beat until fluffy and well blended, creating a smooth base.
- Pour in the pure vanilla extract and sprinkle the kosher salt over the top. Mix until fully incorporated, enhancing the flavor profile of the ice cream.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, folding it gently into the mixture. Keep folding just until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Gently fold in the chopped Bunny Grahams and rainbow sprinkles. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for delightful texture and color in every scoop.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 5 hours or until fully solid.