Step 1: Make the Edible Cookie Dough
- Heat-treat the flour by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. This kills any harmful bacteria, making it safe to eat raw. Let the flour cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the heat-treated flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the dessert.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- Allow the vanilla ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature so it’s easy to spread.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened ice cream with the chopped Snickers and Reese’s, mixing until the candies are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Extravaganza
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Spread half of the cookie dough evenly across the bottom of the dish, pressing it down gently.
- Layer the ice cream mixture over the cookie dough, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the ice cream layer, pressing it in lightly.
- Drizzle hot fudge and caramel sauce generously over the top.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if using, and add extra Snickers and Reese’s pieces for garnish.
Step 4: Freeze the Dessert
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and set.
Step 5: Serve the Extravaganza
- Remove the dessert from the freezer and use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the baking dish.
- Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
- Top with whipped cream if desired, and add a final drizzle of fudge and caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Extravaganza
- Softening the Ice Cream: Allowing the ice cream to soften slightly makes it easier to mix in the candy and spread it over the cookie dough layer. Just be careful not to let it melt completely.
- Heat-Treating the Flour: Don’t skip this step! It ensures the cookie dough is safe to eat raw.
- Customizing the Candy: Feel free to swap in your favorite candy bars if you’re not a fan of Snickers or Reese’s. Twix, Kit Kat, or M&M’s would also be amazing in this dessert.
Serving Suggestions
- Make It Ahead: This dessert can be made a day or two in advance and kept in the freezer until you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for parties.
- Pair with Coffee or Milk: The richness of this dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk.
Final Thoughts
The Snickers & Reese’s Cookie Dough Ice Cream Extravaganza is the kind of dessert that dreams are made of. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with indulgent flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this dessert is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good treat. Enjoy every decadent bite!