Homemade DAZS Ice Cream Bars Vanilla Milk Chocolate Almond Bar No GMO Ingredients No rBST Gluten Free Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Ice Cream

Introduction

The Haagen-Dazs Vanilla Milk Chocolate Almond Bar is a beloved treat known for its creamy vanilla ice cream, crunchy almonds, and rich milk chocolate coating. First introduced in the 1960s by Reuben and Rose Mattus, Haagen-Dazs quickly became synonymous with premium ice cream. The combination of smooth ice cream and the satisfying crunch of almonds, all wrapped in velvety chocolate, has captivated ice cream lovers for decades. This homemade version allows you to enjoy the same delightful experience with the added benefits of healthier ingredients, customization options, and cost-effectiveness. Imagine biting into a bar that's not only delicious but also made with non-GMO, rBST-free, and gluten-free ingredients, ensuring it's better for you and your family.

Why Make It at Home?

Making this ice cream bar at home offers several advantages. You can control the ingredients, reducing sugar content and using higher-quality components. It's customizable, allowing you to tweak the recipe to your taste, and it's often more economical than buying individual bars. The process is fun and rewarding, perfect for a family activity or a creative project.

Personal Anecdote

I recall enjoying these bars on summer evenings as a child, the combination of textures and flavors being pure magic. Years later, I decided to recreate this treat at home, determined to maintain the original's essence while enhancing its nutritional profile. The result was a bar that tasted even better, with the satisfaction of knowing exactly what went into it.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:4 hours (including freezing)
• **Yield:6-8 bars

Ingredients

Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups (475ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating:

• 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
• 1 tbsp (15g) coconut oil

Almonds:

• 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
• 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp (15g) honey or maple syrup

Instructions

• Make the Ice Cream Base:

• In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool, then stir in vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

• Churn the Ice Cream:

• Pour the base into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.

• Prepare Almond Praline:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss almonds with butter and honey on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant. Let cool and chop.

• Assemble the Ice Cream:

• Fold praline into ice cream and freeze for 30 minutes to set.

• Coat with Chocolate:

• Melt chocolate and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.

• Form and Coat Bars:

• Scoop ice cream into bars. Dip each into melted chocolate, then roll in almonds. Place on parchment-lined tray and freeze until set, about 30 minutes.

Storage Instructions

Store bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 weeks. Wrap individually for easy access.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use natural sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit.
• Vegan Version: Replace dairy with coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate.
• Nutty Twist: Add a pinch of sea salt or different nuts like pecans.

Special Equipment

• Ice cream maker
• Blender or food processor
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

Pro Tips

• Temper Chocolate: For a glossy coating, temper chocolate before dipping.
• ** Toast Almonds:** Enhance flavor by toasting almonds until fragrant.
• Age Base: Let ice cream base rest overnight for a creamier texture.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients? Yes, fresh cream and milk enhance flavor.
• What if too hard? Let thaw slightly before serving.
• How to make last longer? Store in airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a dessert or snack. Pair with fresh fruit or use in sundaes.

Conclusion

This homemade version of the Haagen-Dazs bar offers a healthier, customizable treat that captures the original's magic. With fewer calories and more control over ingredients, it's a delightful project for any ice cream lover. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of making something wonderful at home.