Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake

Craving that perfect mix of chocolate, peanuts, and creamy vanilla? This Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake is a dreamy, no-bake dessert inspired by the classic Dairy Queen favorite. Whether you’re throwing a summer BBQ or just want something sweet from the freezer, this treat brings smiles with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake

This dessert is everything you want in a frozen treat:

• It’s rich, creamy, crunchy, and loaded with flavor.
• No baking required — just layer, freeze, and enjoy.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser at any potluck or party.
• Great make-ahead option for busy days.
• A nostalgic Dairy Queen copycat you can make at home for less.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what makes this ice cream cake irresistible:

• Oreo Cookies – These form the crunchy base layer and bring that rich chocolate cookie flavor.
• Butter – Helps bind the crushed cookies into a firm, tasty crust.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Acts as the creamy middle layer and balances the rich fudge and chocolate.
• Salted Peanuts – Provide the signature salty crunch, offering the perfect contrast to the sweet elements.
• Hot Fudge Sauce – A thick, chocolatey topping that ties everything together. In this recipe, you’ll make it from scratch!
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Add a deep chocolate flavor to the homemade fudge.
• Evaporated Milk – Helps the fudge sauce stay smooth and creamy when chilled.
• Sugar – Sweetens the fudge to just the right level.
• Butter (again) – Adds richness and silkiness to the fudge sauce.
• Vanilla Extract – Brings warm depth to the fudge, enhancing all the other flavors.

How to Make Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake (Step-by-Step)

Make the Crust: Combine crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create a firm base. Chill it briefly while you prepare the next layers.

Layer the Ice Cream: Spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the crust. This layer should be smooth but firm enough not to melt quickly. Sprinkle one cup of salted peanuts across the ice cream layer. Place the pan in the freezer to let it firm up.

Prepare the Homemade Fudge Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, evaporated milk, sugar, and butter. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a boil, then let it boil for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using.

Add the Fudge Layer: Once the sauce is completely cooled and the ice cream layer is firm, pour the fudge sauce over the cake. Spread it gently for an even coating. Sprinkle the remaining salted peanuts on top.

Freeze and Serve

Freeze: Return the pan to the freezer and allow the cake to freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This helps all the layers set perfectly and gives you clean slices.

Serve: When you’re ready to serve, use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into bars or squares. Let it sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut through. Serve frozen and enjoy that rich, creamy, crunchy goodness in every bite!

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Storage: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or use an airtight lid.
• Freezer Life: Stays fresh and tasty for up to 2 weeks in the freezer.
• Leftovers: You can wrap individual pieces in parchment and foil for easy grab-and-go servings.
  

Expert Tips for the Perfect Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake

• Soften Ice Cream Slightly: Let the ice cream sit out for 5–10 minutes before spreading so it layers easily without melting too fast.
• Chill Between Layers: Freeze after the ice cream layer before adding fudge to prevent mixing or sliding.
• Use a Hot Knife to Slice: Run your knife under hot water, wipe it, and then slice — repeat between cuts for clean edges.
• Customize the Nuts: Swap peanuts with almonds, cashews, or go nut-free if needed.
• Double the Recipe: Making it for a large crowd? Just use two pans and double the ingredients.

FAQ About Buster Bar Ice Cream Cake

Related Recipes You Might Like

• Creamy Peanut Butter Pie
• Peanut Butter Fudge
• Homemade Coffee Ice Cream

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