Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch features smooth coffee ice cream loaded with crunchy toffee pieces and chocolate bars, delivering a delightful blend of rich coffee flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite.
Equipments
- Ice cream maker
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Freezer-safe container
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup toffee bits
- 1/2 cup chopped chocolate-covered toffee bars
Using instant espresso powder is key to replicating the intense coffee flavor found in Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch. Freshly chopped chocolate-covered toffee bars add authentic texture, so chopping them just before mixing ensures they stay crisp. Heavy cream and whole milk contribute to the ice cream's creamy consistency, balancing richness with smoothness. You might want to adjust the sugar level depending on your sweetness preference, as granulated sugar controls the overall taste and texture. Your homemade version of Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch captures the iconic blend of bold coffee ice cream and crunchy toffee, delivering a satisfying treat just like the original.
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, whole milk, and espresso powder over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale.
- Slowly pour some of the hot cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper.
- Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
- Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- When the ice cream is almost finished churning, add toffee bits and chopped chocolate-covered toffee bars.
- Transfer ice cream to a freezer-safe container, swirling in extra toffee or chocolate if desired.
- Freeze until firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
- Scoop and serve.
Substitution
Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch copycat recipe combines creamy coffee ice cream with crunchy toffee bits and chopped chocolate-covered toffee bars for an indulgent treat. If you don't have instant espresso powder, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee or espresso concentrate, adjusting the liquid to maintain the right texture. For toffee bits, crushed caramel candies or chopped almond brittle can provide a similar crunch and flavor. When mixing the egg yolks, temper them slowly with the warm cream mixture to avoid curdling. Store your finished ice cream in a freezer-safe container to maintain its texture and prevent freezer burn.
Tips
Your coffee ice cream base should never be boiled; steam it until it's just hot to preserve the espresso's rich aroma without bitterness. Tempering the egg yolks by gradually mixing in hot cream is crucial to avoid scrambling and ensure a silky custard texture. Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the custard, removing any cooked egg bits for a smooth final product. Adding toffee bits and chocolate bars near the end of churning prevents them from sinking or losing their crunch.
Nutritions
Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch ice cream provides a rich source of calories and fats primarily from heavy cream and whole milk, contributing to its creamy texture. The inclusion of egg yolks adds protein and essential vitamins like vitamin A and D, while instant espresso powder enhances antioxidant content. Toffee bits and chocolate-covered toffee bars increase sugar and saturated fat levels, delivering the indulgent crunch and sweetness characteristic of this dessert. Your enjoyment of this treat should be balanced with consideration for its high caloric density and sugar content.
Storage
Store your Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn and preserve the rich coffee flavor and crunchy toffee texture. Keep the container at a consistent temperature of 0degF (-18degC) or lower to maintain the smooth texture and prevent ice crystals from forming. Always cover the surface with plastic wrap or wax paper before sealing the container to enhance freshness and minimize exposure to air.
Variation or Alternatives
You can replace instant espresso powder with freshly brewed strong coffee for a more natural coffee flavor in your ice cream. For a creamier texture, substitute half of the whole milk with condensed milk or use a higher fat content cream. Instead of chopped chocolate-covered toffee bars, consider adding chopped dark chocolate or caramel chunks for a different crunch profile. To intensify the toffee flavor, try swirling in homemade caramel sauce during the freezing stage.
Allergies
Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch contains common allergens such as dairy from heavy cream and whole milk, and eggs from the egg yolks. The toffee bits and chocolate-covered toffee bars may also contain traces of nuts or soy, which can trigger allergic reactions. You should carefully check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Ben & Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch menu captivates with its rich coffee ice cream paired with crunchy toffee bits and chocolate swirls, delivering a perfect balance of bold flavors and satisfying textures. You'll appreciate the decadent combination that satisfies both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this unique treat anytime, customizing sweetness and crunch to your personal preference. The recipe is worth trying because it replicates the high-quality taste without the cost or need to visit a Ben & Jerry's store.