If we created a list of our favorite things, camping and ice cream would be near the top. It’s hard to imagine anything better than combining the two.
Tillamook recently released a new flavor, Campfire Peanut Butter Cup, and we had to give it a shot. So what did we think about it, and should you try it?
Today, we’re sharing how our taste buds felt about this unique treat. We’ll also offer some helpful ways to incorporate ice cream into your next camping adventure.
Let’s get the scoop!
Tillamook Introduces New Ice Cream Flavor Inspired by Camping
Tillamook is one of many options in the freezers at our local grocer. The Oregon-based brand recently released three limited-edition flavors to help consumers celebrate National Ice Cream Day.
The new additions included Neapolitan, Orange and Cream, and Campfire Peanut Butter Cup. We couldn’t help but think the last option might be the perfect ice cream for camping.
So did it live up to the hype?
From the moment we opened the carton, it was evident that Tillamook’s description was spot on. Their label reads, “Toasted marshmallow ice cream with a fudge swirl and mini chocolaty peanut butter cups.” The chocolate chunks and fudgy swirls contrasted against the white marshmallow colors. We grabbed our spoons and dug in.
While we wanted to fall in love with it, this flavor just didn’t hit the spot. It did contain all the items in its description, but the marshmallow overwhelmed the chocolate. Each spoonful was like biting into cold, white fluff with an occasional hint of cocoa.
The taste lingered on the back of your tongue but, unfortunately, didn’t leave us begging for more.
Can You Really Take Ice Cream Camping?
Taking ice cream on a camping adventure is challenging. RVers with freezers have an advantage, but it still takes work. There’s not much worse than discovering your frozen treat is nothing but a puddle of mush.
To avoid disappointment, keep it as cold as possible. The cooler you can keep it, the better. Generally, dry and regular ice are the two most common methods for keeping food and drinks chilled while camping. Depending on the brand and the conditions, they can keep the contents cold for a few hours to several days.
To keep your cooler frigid, limit how often you open it. You’ll introduce warm air whenever you get into it. It’s the same reason parents constantly remind kids to shut the front door. The constant opening and closing will mess up your dessert plans.
Another helpful tip is to store your stuff in the shade. The heat from the sun can start to bake storage containers and their contents. Use an umbrella or place it under a nearby tree. Shielding it from the sun can mean the difference between a solid treat and a melted mess.
We mentioned that some products are better than others. Unfortunately, you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to these items. A cheap styrofoam version doesn’t offer the same insulation as brands like Yeti, RTIC, or Igloo. If you use it often, it can be worth investing in a high-end model.
We wondered: Should You Use Dry Ice in a Camping Cooler?
Check Out More Flavors Great for Camping
Don’t like or can’t find Tillamook’s Campfire Peanut Butter Cup? Luckily, other manufacturers make similar products that may be available near you and please your palate.
One example is from famous ice cream manufacturer Ben & Jerry’s. Their Glampfire Trail Mix combines chocolate with crunchy pretzels and marshmallow swirls. In addition, you’ll find hints of fudge-covered almonds throughout the treat. If you enjoy camping with a bit of luxury, this might be the one for you.
Another option to consider is S’mores from Favorite Day. It features marshmallows and chocolate with chunks of chocolate and graham. Whether you eat it in a bowl, between graham crackers, or as a milkshake, your taste buds might think you’re camping. The only thing missing is the campfire.
Do you know? What the Heck is a Penny Lick? (Hint: It has to do with ice cream.)
Can You Make Ice Cream in a Bag?
Why buy ice cream when you can make it yourself? Making it in a bag is a fun science project that all ages will enjoy. And the best part is you have a treat to enjoy at the end of the experiment.
To do this, you’ll need a coffee can, resealable plastic bags, ice, rock salt, half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla extract. If you want to add chocolate chips, syrup, or other ingredients, ensure you have those on hand too.
Place the half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla into a resealable plastic bag. Get as much air as possible into the bag and let it sit until the sugar dissolves. You can then combine half a cup of rock salt into the bottom of the coffee can and add a few cups of ice. Put the bag into the can and then pile more ice on top of it. Now comes the fun part!
Secure the lid on top of the coffee can and start shaking it. Stop shaking every so often to check on the progress. It can take ten to fifteen minutes, and you may need to add more ice or rock salt. Once the mixture starts to harden, you can serve it immediately.
This Fun Ice Cream Ball Is Perfect for Camping
If you like the idea of DIY dessert, give the Yay Labs Ice Cream Ball a try. You and your loved ones can make a pint in half an hour. Since you’ll provide manual labor, you won’t even need electricity.
The ball makes the process easy. You load ice and rock salt into one side of the ball and the remaining ingredients for your recipe into the other. From there, you vigorously shake it for 20 to 30 minutes.
But shaking a ball for this amount of time can be exhausting. Cutting it short will only result in a softer dish. Make sure everyone that’s going to enjoy it takes a turn. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work!
This can be a fun way to get your family to work on a project together. While you could drive to your local grocery store and purchase a pint of your favorite brand, you can get more creative with ingredients when you make it yourself. The Yay Labs Ice Cream Ball can have everyone in your family screaming for ice cream.
Price Check: Play and Freeze, Ice Cream Ball – Ice Cream Maker.
We’re Not Giving Up on Our Favorite Frozen Treat
We love that manufacturers like Tillamook offer ice cream with a camping twist. They allow you to taste the flavors of your favorite outdoor activities, even if they don’t always knock it out of the park.
So whether you grab a carton of Campfire Peanut Butter Cup or something else, enjoy it! Take the time to cherish each bite and share it with those you love most.
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