Introducing Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar — a delightful twist on the beloved Southern classic dessert, now in a convenient frozen treat format. These delectable bars combine the rich, creamy flavor of banana pudding with the cool refreshment of ice cream, creating a tantalizing blend that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings. With layers of creamy banana ice cream, swirls of vanilla wafers, and a decadent coating of chocolate or caramel, Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars offer a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a delightful dessert anytime, these bars are sure to become a favorite indulgence for banana pudding enthusiasts and ice cream lovers alike.
Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Popsicle sticks or wooden skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and mash them using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat Cream and Milk: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Whisk Sugar and Egg Yolks: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
- Temper Egg Mixture: Gradually pour a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the sugar and egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually add the remaining cream mixture while whisking continuously.
- Cook Custard: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
- Add Mashed Bananas: Remove the custard from heat and stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Chill Mixture: Transfer the banana custard to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring that the plastic wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled.
- Assemble Ice Cream Bars: Once the custard is thoroughly chilled, stir in the crushed vanilla wafer cookies until evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, filling each mold almost to the top. Insert a popsicle stick or wooden skewer into each mold.
- Freeze: Place the popsicle molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream bars are firm.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semisweet chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Coat Ice Cream Bars: Remove the frozen ice cream bars from the molds. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the coated bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze Again: Return the coated bars to the freezer and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate coating is set.
- Serve: Once the chocolate coating is set, your Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars are ready to enjoy! Serve them as a cool and refreshing treat on a hot day, and watch as they disappear in no time.
Notes
Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar Ingredients
The specific ingredients for Walmart’s Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars may vary based on the brand and recipe used. However, here are the typical ingredients you might find in Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars:
- Ice Cream Base:
- Milk
- Cream
- Sugar
- Stabilizers and emulsifiers (to maintain texture and prevent ice crystals)
- Flavorings and extracts (banana flavoring or natural banana extract)
- Cookie or Wafer Layer:
- Vanilla wafers or cookie pieces (crushed or whole)
- Butter or vegetable oil (for binding the cookie layer)
- Optional Toppings or Inclusions:
- Sliced bananas
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Chocolate drizzle or sauce
- Nuts (such as chopped pecans)
- Sprinkles or decorative toppings
Please note that the exact ingredients and proportions can vary depending on the brand and recipe used by Walmart or other manufacturers to create Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars. It’s always a good idea to check the product label or packaging for the most accurate ingredient information and potential allergens.
Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar Calories
The calorie content of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars can vary depending on the specific brand, recipe, and serving size. Here’s a general estimate of the calorie count for a typical Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar:
- Serving Size: 1 ice cream bar (approximately 70-100 grams)
- Calories: Approximately 239 calories per ice cream bar
Please note that these calorie estimates are for standard-sized Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars and may vary based on the brand’s ingredients, portion size, and nutritional information. Some factors that can influence the calorie content include the type of ice cream base used (e.g., full-fat, low-fat, sugar-free), the amount of added sugars or toppings, and any mix-ins or inclusions.
To get the most accurate information about the calorie content of a specific brand or product, it’s recommended to check the nutrition facts label on the packaging. This label provides detailed information about serving size, calories, fat, sugar, protein, and other nutrients per serving.
Tips For Perfect Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar
Here are some tips for creating perfect Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, including creamy banana-flavored ice cream, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers or cookie pieces, for the best flavor and texture.
- Layering Technique: Create distinct layers in the ice cream bars for visual appeal and flavor variety. Start with a layer of banana-flavored ice cream, followed by a layer of crushed vanilla wafers or cookie pieces, and repeat as desired.
- Freezing Time: Allow the assembled ice cream bars to freeze for an adequate amount of time to ensure they are firm and hold their shape. This typically takes at least 2-3 hours, but overnight freezing can enhance the texture and flavor.
- Use Ripe Bananas: Choose ripe bananas with a sweet and flavorful taste for the best banana flavor in the ice cream bars. Slice the bananas thinly for easy incorporation into the ice cream layers.
- Add Texture: Consider adding texture to the ice cream bars by mixing in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, with the crushed vanilla wafers. This adds a crunchy element that complements the creamy ice cream and soft cookie layers.
- Optional Toppings: Before serving, garnish the ice cream bars with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or additional banana slices for an extra touch of indulgence and presentation.
- Individually Wrap: If making multiple ice cream bars, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before freezing. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to grab a single serving when ready to enjoy.
- Serve Chilled: Serve the Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars chilled but not overly frozen. Allowing them to soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes before serving can enhance the creamy texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you can create perfect Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars that are flavorful, visually appealing, and satisfyingly delicious for any occasion. Enjoy the classic flavors of banana pudding in a convenient frozen treat!
FAQ
What are Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars?
Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars are frozen treats that combine the beloved flavors of banana pudding into a convenient handheld format. These bars typically feature layers of creamy banana-flavored ice cream sandwiched between vanilla wafers or cookie pieces. They are inspired by the classic Southern dessert, banana pudding, which traditionally consists of layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream.
The key components of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars include:
- Creamy Banana-Flavored Ice Cream: The ice cream used in these bars is infused with banana flavoring to create a smooth and delicious banana taste. It’s often made with a base of milk, cream, sugar, and natural or artificial banana flavorings.
- Vanilla Wafers or Cookie Pieces: These provide a crunchy and flavorful texture to the ice cream bars. They are typically layered between the banana ice cream to mimic the essence of a classic banana pudding dessert.
- Optional Toppings: Some variations of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars may include additional toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or banana slices for added flavor and decoration.
These ice cream bars offer a delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and nostalgic flavors reminiscent of homemade banana pudding. They are a convenient and enjoyable dessert option, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or cooling down on a hot day.
Are Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars Gluten-Free?
The gluten-free status of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars can vary depending on the specific brand, recipe, and ingredients used in their production. Here are some general considerations regarding their gluten-free status:
- Main Ingredients: The main components of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars, such as banana-flavored ice cream and vanilla wafers or cookie pieces, are typically gluten-free. However, it’s essential to check the product label or packaging for any gluten-containing additives or flavorings.
- Cross-Contamination: While the primary ingredients may be gluten-free, there is a risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing or processing. Manufacturers may use shared equipment or facilities for producing gluten-containing products, which can lead to traces of gluten in the ice cream bars.
- Gluten-Free Certification: Some brands may offer gluten-free certification or label their Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars as gluten-free if they meet specific criteria and standards. Look for gluten-free certification symbols or statements on the packaging for assurance.
- Ingredient Check: Always read the ingredient list carefully to identify any potential sources of gluten, such as wheat flour, barley malt, or modified food starch. Ingredients like natural flavorings or additives may also need verification.
- Contact Manufacturer: If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements regarding gluten-free products, consider contacting the manufacturer directly for detailed information about their ingredients, production processes, and gluten-free practices.
Overall, while Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars may be naturally gluten-free based on their ingredients, it’s crucial to verify their gluten-free status through product labeling, certification, and ingredient checks to ensure they meet your dietary needs and preferences.
Do Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars Contain Real Bananas?
Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars can vary in their ingredients depending on the brand and recipe. In general, some Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars may contain real bananas or banana puree as part of their flavoring or inclusion. However, others may use artificial banana flavorings or extracts to achieve the banana flavor without actual fruit.
It’s essential to check the product label or packaging for specific information about the ingredients used in Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars. If real bananas are included, they are typically listed in the ingredients alongside other components such as cream, sugar, stabilizers, and flavorings.
For individuals with allergies or dietary preferences related to bananas, it’s crucial to read the ingredient list carefully and contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns or questions about the presence of real bananas in the ice cream bars.
How Many Calories are in a Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar?
The calorie content of a Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar can vary depending on the specific brand, recipe, and serving size. Here’s a general estimate of the calorie count for a typical Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bar:
- Serving Size: 1 ice cream bar (approximately 70-100 grams)
- Calories: Approximately 239 calories per ice cream bar
Please note that these calorie estimates are for standard-sized Banana Pudding Ice Cream Bars and may vary based on the brand’s ingredients, portion size, and nutritional information. Some factors that can influence the calorie content include the type of ice cream base used (e.g., full-fat, low-fat, sugar-free), the amount of added sugars or toppings, and any mix-ins or inclusions.
To get the most accurate information about the calorie content of a specific brand or product, it’s recommended to check the nutrition facts label on the packaging. This label provides detailed information about serving size, calories, fat, sugar, protein, and other nutrients per serving.