When Crumbl introduced their Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie, inspired by the artistry of Benson Boone, I knew it was something special—the kind of dessert that takes you on a whimsical journey with every bite. While grabbing one from the store is amazing, I couldn’t resist diving into the challenge of recreating this mystical cookie recipe at home!
Table of Contents
How to make Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie
Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie is a limited‑edition creation from Crumbl Cookies in collaboration with singer Benson Boone, inspired by the “Moonbeam ice cream” lyric in his song Mystical Magical.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips or white chocolate chips (optional for texture)
For the Ice Cream Layer:
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream (or flavor of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (optional for fluffier texture)
For Decoration (Optional):
- Edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles (to capture the “moonbeam magic”)
- Chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle
Tools:
- Cookie molds or muffin tin (to create the ice cream cookie shape)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer (about 2 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chocolate chips (if desired).
- Scoop dough into approximately 1/4 cup balls and press them into molds or onto a baking sheet to form thick, round cookies.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.
Step 2: Ice Cream Filling
- While the cookies cool, remove the ice cream from the freezer to soften slightly.
- For a fluffier filling, whip heavy cream in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the softened ice cream.
- Scoop the ice cream into silicon molds or gently spread it on a parchment-lined tray in a layer that matches the cookie size. Freeze for 1-2 hours or until firm.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookie
- Once the cookies are cool and the ice cream is firm, take a cookie and gently sandwich a portion of ice cream between two cookies. Press lightly to secure without breaking the cookies.
- If desired, decorate the edges of the ice cream layer with edible glitter or sprinkles for a magical touch.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the assembled cookies rest at room temperature for 1-2 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Optional: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra indulgent flavor.
Tips for Perfect Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookies
- Use Higher Fat Ice Cream: Premium ice cream makes a smoother filling that’s easier to shape and won’t melt as quickly.
- Keep Cookies Thick: The cookie base needs to be sturdy yet soft to complement the ice cream without breaking apart.
- Work Fast: When assembling, work quickly to avoid melting the ice cream.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a dash of almond or lavender extract to the cookie dough for a whimsical twist.
- Store Properly: Wrap assembled cookies in parchment paper and store them in the freezer for up to one week.
What to serve with
The Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie is already a showstopper dessert, but pairing it with complementary sides, drinks, and light accompaniments can elevate your serving experience and turn your treat into a truly magical feast.
1. Pair it With Hot Beverages
The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warmth of a hot beverage. Here are some options:
a. Coffee or Espresso
Pair the rich flavors of the cookie with warm coffee options such as:
- A vanilla latte for a sweet, creamy touch.
- An espresso shot to complement the sweetness with bitter notes.
- A mocha for chocolate lovers, mirroring the cookie’s flavors.
b. Hot Chocolate
- Luxurious hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of edible glitter or cocoa powder will tie in the whimsical vibe of the Moonbeam cookie.
- Add a hint of mint or lavender syrup for a cosmic twist.
c. Herbal Tea
- Light teas like chamomile, lavender, or vanilla rooibos are perfect if you want something less heavy.
- A floral tea balances the sweetness of the ice cream cookie gracefully.
2. Cold Drinks and Milkshakes
If you’re serving the Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie on a warm day, refreshing cold beverages enhance the treat perfectly:
a. Flavored Milk or Creamy Shakes
- Serve a vanilla milkshake garnished with whipped cream and sprinkles to match the dreamy vibe.
- Oreo or cookies-and-cream milkshakes complement the cookie’s texture beautifully.
- Opt for strawberry milk or banana smoothie to contrast the cookie’s chocolate tones with fruity flavors.
b. Cosmic-themed mocktails or Slushies
- Whip up a blueberry slushie or a purple galaxy lemonade using natural fruit extracts or edible glitter to emphasize the “out-of-this-world” Moonbeam theme.
- A cotton candy soda gives a whimsical sweetness to pair with the dessert effortlessly.
3. Light Desserts on the Side
Offer side options that won’t overpower the Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie but add variety to your dessert table.
a. Meringues
- Light, airy meringue cookies in pastel colors or dusted with edible glitter mimic the cosmic aesthetic while delivering a crispy, delicate contrast.
b. Fresh Fruit
- Serve fresh berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) in small bowls to add natural sweetness and brighten the plate.
- Add thinly sliced kiwi or oranges for citrusy bursts of flavor.
c. Mini Cheesecakes
- Create mini star-shaped cheesecakes, flavored with vanilla or blueberry, that will complement the sweetness of the Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie.
d. Cosmic Cupcakes
- If you’re going for a themed event, bake galaxy-inspired cupcakes topped with swirls of midnight purple and blue frosting to stay consistent with the Moonbeam theme.
Ingredients Substitutes
Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookies are a delightful treat that combines soft cookies with creamy ice cream, achieving the perfect balance between sweetness, texture, and decadence.
1. All-Purpose Flour
Substitution Options:
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Choose a high-quality, gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-friendly version. Some popular brands already have xanthan gum incorporated to mimic the texture of gluten.
- Almond Flour: Provides a nuttier flavor and makes the cookies denser. It is a low-carb substitute that works well in many recipes but may require adjustments in moisture levels.
- Coconut Flour: Use sparingly as coconut flour absorbs more liquid. Generally, you’ll need to increase the liquids (like eggs) if using this flour.
- Whole Wheat Flour: For a heartier flavor and healthier option, substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
2. Sugar
Substitution Options:
- Brown Sugar: Adds a richer, molasses-like flavor and a chewy texture.
- Coconut Sugar: A natural alternative with a subtle caramel flavor and lower glycemic index.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Use liquid sweeteners for a natural option, but reduce other liquid ingredients slightly.
- Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: For a lower-calorie option, these natural sweeteners work well, though they may alter the texture slightly.
3. Butter
Substitution Options:
- Coconut Oil: Provides a subtle tropical flavor and is vegan-friendly. Use the solid form to mimic the same consistency as butter.
- Margarine: A more traditional substitute for butter, especially if you’re aiming for a non-dairy option.
- Applesauce: For a healthier, low-fat alternative, replace the butter partially or fully.
- Avocado: Mashed avocado can be used for a creamy texture with added nutritional benefits.
4. Eggs
Substitution Options:
- Flaxseed Meal or Chia Seeds: Combine 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tbsp of water per egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
- Mashed Banana: Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Use about ¼ cup of mashed banana per egg.
- Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce is another popular egg replacement (¼ cup = 1 egg).
- Vegan Egg Replacers: Commercial egg substitutes, such as Bob’s Red Mill or Ener-G, can also be used.
5. Chocolate Chips
Substitution Options:
- Dark Chocolate Chunks or Bars: Chop up a dark chocolate bar for a richer, bittersweet flavor profile.
- Carob Chips: A non-caffeinated, less sweet alternative.
- Chopped Nuts or Dried Fruit: For a twist, use chopped walnuts, pecans, dried cherries, or cranberries.
- White Chocolate Chips: If you prefer a sweeter flavor with a vanilla-like touch.
6. Vanilla Extract
Substitution Options:
- Almond Extract: For a nuttier flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness.
- Vanilla Bean Paste or Powder: A more concentrated vanilla taste if available.
- Rum or Bourbon: These splashes work well for a more complex flavor profile.
Final Thought
With this recipe, you’ll capture the magic of the Moonbeam Ice Cream Cookie in every bite.
More Cookie Recipes:
