Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

Blueberry Ice Cream Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These bars feature layers of creamy vanilla ice cream and tangy blueberry frozen yogurt, all topped with a crunchy shortbread crumble. Not only are they refreshing, but they also offer a unique twist on the classic Strawberry Shortcake Good Humor Ice Cream Popsicles. Serve them at summer picnics, birthday parties, or simply enjoy them on a warm afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With no baking required, these bars come together effortlessly in just 30 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and blueberry creates a sweet yet tart flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for various occasions, these Blueberry Ice Cream Bars can be customized with your favorite toppings or fruit.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer, making them an ideal option for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings per batch, they are great for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Blueberry Ice Cream Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 8 x 8 square baking dish
• Parchment or wax paper
• Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes it easy to crush cookies and mix ingredients quickly.
• Baking dish: A square dish allows for even layering of your ice cream bars.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment helps with easy removal of the bars after they have set.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Layers

• 4-1/2 – 5 cups your favorite vanilla ice cream
• 2 1/2 cups blueberry sorbet

For the Crust and Topping

• 6-8 shortbread cookies
• 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 Tablespoons freeze-dried blueberries (pulsed into powder OR blueberry gelatin (jello) powder

How to Make Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line an 8 x 8 square baking dish with parchment or wax paper, leaving an overhang for easier removal. Set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

In a food processor, add the shortbread cookies and pulse until you achieve fine crumbs. Mix in the softened butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined baking dish. Place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes to set.

Step 3: Create the Crumbled Topping

In a small bowl or zip-top bag, crush additional shortbread cookies into large crumbs. Combine these crumbs with softened butter, pressing them together into pea-sized pieces. Mix in freeze-dried blueberry powder or blueberry gelatin powder and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Remove both your vanilla ice cream and blueberry frozen yogurt from the freezer to soften for about 15-20 minutes. Once softened, scoop around 2 cups of vanilla ice cream over the cookie crust. Spread it evenly using an offset spatula.

Step 5: Firm Up the Vanilla Layer

Place the pan back in the freezer to harden slightly for about 10 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Blueberry Frozen Yogurt

Spread blueberry frozen yogurt evenly over the layer of vanilla ice cream. If needed, place the pan back in the freezer for another 10 minutes to firm up before adding more vanilla frozen yogurt on top.

Step 7: Top with Crumbles

Sprinkle the crumbled topping evenly over all layers of ice cream. Cover and place in the freezer for about 3-4 hours or overnight until completely set.

Step 8: Serve Your Delicious Bars

Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes so that it softens slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut into square rectangles. Store any leftovers in the freezer until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

Blueberry Ice Cream Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for a refreshing dessert after dinner, these bars offer versatility and flavor that everyone will love.

Individual Portions

• Serve each bar cut into squares for easy handling at parties or gatherings. This allows guests to enjoy just the right amount without feeling guilty.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Add fresh blueberries on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. This enhances the berry experience and makes the dish visually appealing.

A Drizzle of Chocolate

• Drizzling melted chocolate over the bars adds a rich contrast to the sweet blueberry flavors. Use dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream can elevate their taste and texture. The creaminess pairs well with the fruity layers of the ice cream bars.

With a Side of Mint

• Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only looks great but also provides a refreshing taste that complements the blueberry ice cream bars perfectly.

How to Perfect Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

To make sure your Blueberry Ice Cream Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting high-quality vanilla ice cream and blueberry sorbet will greatly enhance the overall flavor of your dessert.
• Chill Your Tools: Keeping your mixing bowls and spatulas cold can help maintain the consistency of your ice cream layers, making spreading easier.
• Layer Evenly: When adding each layer, ensure they are spread evenly to create distinct layers for better presentation and taste.
• Freeze Between Layers: Don’t skip freezing between layers; it helps maintain structure and prevents the flavors from blending too soon.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like crushed nuts or other freeze-dried fruits for added texture and flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Ice Cream Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider that complement this sweet treat nicely.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the bars while providing freshness.
2. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet serves as a perfect counterpart to the sweetness of blueberry ice cream bars.
3. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, can add depth to your dessert table.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add an elegant touch and harmonize well with berry flavors.
5. Miniature Pies: Serving small fruit pies can create a delightful mix of textures on your dessert table.
6. Granola Parfait: Layered granola with yogurt and berries offers a crunchy element alongside your creamy dessert.
7. Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats provide a sweet nutty flavor that pairs well with fruity desserts.
8. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons add another layer of sweetness and texture, making them an excellent pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Blueberry Ice Cream Bars can be a fun experience, but there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Not lining the baking dish: Failing to line your baking dish makes it difficult to remove the bars once they are frozen. Always use parchment or wax paper for easy lifting.
• Overmixing the crust: Mixing the cookie crust too much can lead to a tough texture. Combine the ingredients just until they hold together, then press gently into the dish.
• Skipping the freezing time: If you skip or shorten the freezing time between layers, your bars may not set properly. Be patient and allow each layer to freeze as directed.
• Using soft ice cream: If your vanilla ice cream is too soft when you spread it on the crust, it will mix with the crust instead of forming a clean layer. Let it soften slightly but not become too runny.
• Cutting too soon: Cutting into the bars while they are still very frozen can result in messy slices. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting for cleaner edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blueberry Ice Cream Bars in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but best enjoyed frozen.

Freezing Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for easier access.
• Store in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
• These bars can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Blueberry Ice Cream Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This method is not typically recommended as these bars are best served frozen.
• Microwave: Use short bursts (10-15 seconds) on low power until slightly softened. Avoid overheating to keep their integrity.
• Stovetop: Not applicable as these bars do not require stovetop reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Ice Cream Bars.

Can I use fresh blueberries in Blueberry Ice Cream Bars?

Yes, you can use fresh blueberries, but they may create extra moisture. Consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly if using fresh fruit.

How long do Blueberry Ice Cream Bars last?

When stored properly in the freezer, these delicious bars can last up to 2 months without losing quality.

Can I customize my Blueberry Ice Cream Bars?

Absolutely! You can swap out blueberry yogurt for other flavors or add nuts and chocolate chips for an extra crunch.

What’s the best way to cut Blueberry Ice Cream Bars?

Allow them to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cutting with a sharp knife for perfect squares without breaking apart.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Ice Cream Bars are not only delightful but also versatile! They make a perfect summer treat and can be customized with various flavors and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying family time, give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!