Baskin-Robbins Beach Day Ice Cream: Recipes & Summer Fun!
Baskin-Robbins’ Beach Day ice cream, with its vibrant blue hue, graham cracker ‘sand,’ and candy ‘seashells’ and ‘stars,’ isn’t just a flavor; it’s a summer vacation in a scoop. This July, take your Beach Day experience beyond the cone with these creative and delicious recipes. Whether you want to elevate your sundae game, whip up refreshing milkshakes, or bake decadent desserts, we’ve got ideas to make your summer even sweeter. These recipes are designed to be easy to follow and adaptable, so feel free to tweak them to your liking. Get ready to dive into a wave of flavor!
## Understanding the Beach Day Flavor Profile
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s appreciate what makes Beach Day ice cream so special. The creamy, slightly salty blue raspberry ice cream base evokes the ocean, while the graham cracker pieces provide a delightful textural contrast reminiscent of sandy beaches. The candy shells and stars add pops of sweetness and visual appeal. Knowing this flavor profile helps when you’re trying to combine it with other ingredients.
## Recipe 1: Beach Day Ice Cream Parfait
This parfait layers Beach Day ice cream with complementary textures and flavors, creating a visually stunning and delicious dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
* 1 cup crushed graham crackers
* 1/2 cup whipped cream
* 1/4 cup blueberries
* 1/4 cup raspberries
* 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Layers:** In a tall glass or parfait dish, start with a layer of crushed graham crackers. This will act as your sandy base.
2. **Add Ice Cream:** Gently scoop a layer of Beach Day ice cream on top of the graham crackers. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the surface.
3. **Berries and Cream:** Add a layer of mixed blueberries and raspberries, followed by a dollop of whipped cream.
4. **Repeat:** Repeat layers of graham crackers, ice cream, berries, and whipped cream until you reach the top of the glass.
5. **Garnish:** Top with shredded coconut (if using) and the candy seashells and stars from the ice cream. This is where you can get creative with the presentation! Arrange the candies to mimic a miniature beach scene.
6. **Chill (Optional):** For a firmer parfait, chill in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together slightly.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors and textures!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Graham Cracker Crust:** For a sturdier base, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into the bottom of the glass before layering.
* **Fruit Swaps:** Experiment with other berries like strawberries or blackberries. You could also add slices of banana or kiwi for a tropical twist.
* **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle chocolate syrup or white chocolate over the top for added decadence.
* **Nutty Crunch:** Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or almonds for a nutty crunch.
* **Vegan Option:** Use non-dairy whipped cream and graham crackers.
## Recipe 2: Beach Day Ice Cream Milkshake
Beat the summer heat with a refreshing Beach Day ice cream milkshake. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a hot day.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
* Blue sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the Beach Day ice cream and milk. Start with 1/2 cup of milk and add more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
2. **Blend:** Blend on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can melt the ice cream too much.
3. **Adjust Consistency:** If the milkshake is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a scoop of ice cream.
4. **Pour and Garnish:** Pour the milkshake into a tall glass.
5. **Top with Whipped Cream:** If desired, top with whipped cream, candy seashells and stars, and blue sprinkles.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy the creamy, refreshing taste of summer.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Banana:** For a thicker and creamier milkshake, add half a frozen banana to the blender.
* **Chocolate Swirl:** Drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside of the glass before pouring in the milkshake for a chocolatey swirl.
* **Peanut Butter Boost:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a rich and nutty flavor.
* **Malt Flavor:** Add a tablespoon of malted milk powder for a classic malt milkshake flavor.
* **Coffee Kick:** Add a shot of espresso for a caffeinated treat.
## Recipe 3: Beach Day Ice Cream Brownie Sundaes
Elevate your brownie sundae game with Beach Day ice cream. The salty-sweet combination is irresistible!
**Ingredients:**
* 6 brownies (homemade or store-bought)
* 2 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
* 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce
* 1/4 cup caramel sauce
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Brownies:** If using homemade brownies, let them cool slightly before cutting them into squares. If using store-bought brownies, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
2. **Assemble Sundaes:** Place a brownie square in a bowl.
3. **Add Ice Cream:** Top with a scoop of Beach Day ice cream.
4. **Drizzle Sauces:** Drizzle hot fudge sauce and caramel sauce over the ice cream.
5. **Sprinkle Nuts:** Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
6. **Add Whipped Cream:** If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream.
7. **Garnish:** Garnish with candy seashells and stars from the ice cream.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy the decadent combination of warm brownies, cool ice cream, and sweet toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Homemade Brownies:** Use your favorite brownie recipe or try a boxed brownie mix for convenience.
* **Different Nuts:** Experiment with different nuts like almonds, macadamia nuts, or peanuts.
* **Fruit Toppings:** Add sliced strawberries, raspberries, or bananas for a fruity twist.
* **Marshmallow Fluff:** Add a dollop of marshmallow fluff for extra sweetness.
* **Pretzel Pieces:** Add crushed pretzel pieces for a salty-sweet crunch.
## Recipe 4: Beach Day Ice Cream Floats
A simple yet classic treat! The blue hue of the ice cream makes this float visually appealing.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
* 2 cans (12 oz each) lemon-lime soda (Sprite, 7-Up, or similar)
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Glasses:** Fill two tall glasses about halfway with lemon-lime soda.
2. **Add Ice Cream:** Gently drop a scoop of Beach Day ice cream into each glass.
3. **Top with Soda:** Slowly top off each glass with more lemon-lime soda.
4. **Add Whipped Cream:** If desired, top with whipped cream.
5. **Garnish:** Garnish with candy seashells and stars from the ice cream.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy the fizzy and refreshing float.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Sodas:** Experiment with different sodas like ginger ale, cream soda, or even root beer.
* **Fruit Puree:** Add a tablespoon of fruit puree (like raspberry or strawberry) to the bottom of the glass before adding the soda and ice cream.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add a pinch of lemon or lime zest to the top of the float for a burst of citrus flavor.
* **Herbal Infusion:** Muddle a few mint leaves at the bottom of the glass for a refreshing herbal twist.
* **Adult Version:** Add a shot of vodka or rum for an adult-friendly float.
## Recipe 5: No-Bake Beach Day Ice Cream Pie
This no-bake pie is perfect for a quick and easy dessert that requires no oven time.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
* 4 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream (softened)
* 1/2 cup whipped cream
* 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften Ice Cream:** Let the Beach Day ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s easily spreadable.
2. **Fill Pie Crust:** Spoon the softened ice cream into the graham cracker pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. **Smooth the Surface:** Smooth the surface of the ice cream with the back of a spoon or spatula.
4. **Freeze:** Cover the pie with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
5. **Garnish:** Just before serving, remove the pie from the freezer and garnish with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and candy seashells and stars.
6. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the pie into wedges and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Homemade Crust:** Make your own graham cracker pie crust for a homemade touch.
* **Chocolate Crust:** Use a chocolate graham cracker crust for a richer flavor.
* **Cookie Crumbles:** Use crushed Oreo cookies or other cookie crumbles instead of graham crackers.
* **Fruit Filling:** Add a layer of fruit filling (like berry pie filling or sliced bananas) to the bottom of the crust before adding the ice cream.
* **Chocolate Shavings:** Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top of the pie for added decadence.
## Recipe 6: Beach Day Ice Cream Sandwiches
These ice cream sandwiches are a fun and easy treat for kids and adults alike.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pint Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream (slightly softened)
* 12 graham crackers (or cookies of your choice)
* Sprinkles (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved, crushed if desired)
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften Ice Cream:** Let the Beach Day ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s easily spreadable.
2. **Prepare Graham Crackers:** Lay out six graham crackers on a flat surface.
3. **Spread Ice Cream:** Spread a layer of softened Beach Day ice cream onto each graham cracker.
4. **Top with Graham Crackers:** Top each ice cream-covered graham cracker with another graham cracker, creating a sandwich.
5. **Add Sprinkles (Optional):** If desired, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles or crushed candy seashells and stars.
6. **Freeze:** Wrap each ice cream sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the ice cream is firm.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the ice cream sandwiches from the freezer and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cookies:** Use chocolate chip cookies, sugar cookies, or even brownies instead of graham crackers.
* **Chocolate Coating:** Dip the ice cream sandwiches in melted chocolate and freeze for a chocolate-covered treat.
* **Peanut Butter Coating:** Spread peanut butter on the graham crackers before adding the ice cream for a peanut butter and ice cream sandwich.
* **Jam Filling:** Spread a thin layer of jam on the graham crackers before adding the ice cream for a fruity twist.
* **Make them Mini:** Cut the graham crackers into smaller squares for mini ice cream sandwiches.
## Recipe 7: Beach Day Ice Cream Bark
This colorful bark is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 oz white chocolate chips
* 2 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream, melted (or use blue raspberry flavored candy melts for easier setup)
* 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
* 1/4 cup candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
* Blue sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt White Chocolate:** Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** If using melted ice cream: Quickly stir in the melted Beach Day ice cream with the melted white chocolate. It might seize up a bit, work quickly. If using blue raspberry candy melts: No need to combine, just melt separately.
3. **Spread Mixture:** Spread the mixture (or the melted white chocolate if not using melted ice cream) evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Sprinkle Toppings:** Sprinkle crushed graham crackers, candy seashells and stars, and blue sprinkles (if using) over the melted chocolate.
5. **Freeze:** Freeze for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the bark is firm.
6. **Break into Pieces:** Break the bark into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Chocolate:** Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate.
* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts.
* **Swirl Colors:** Drizzle melted blue candy melts or blue food coloring over the white chocolate before adding the toppings for a swirl effect.
* **Sea Salt:** Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the bark for a salty-sweet flavor.
* **Edible Glitter:** Add edible glitter for a shimmering effect.
## Recipe 8: Beach Day Ice Cream Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing and energizing Beach Day ice cream smoothie.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk (or yogurt)
* 1/2 banana
* 1/4 cup blueberries
* 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the Beach Day ice cream, milk (or yogurt), banana, blueberries, and honey (if using).
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth.
3. **Adjust Consistency:** If the smoothie is too thick, add more milk. If it’s too thin, add more ice cream or frozen fruit.
4. **Pour and Serve:** Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Spinach:** Add a handful of spinach for a healthy boost (you won’t even taste it!).
* **Protein Powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder for a post-workout smoothie.
* **Chia Seeds:** Add a tablespoon of chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
* **Oatmeal:** Add a 1/4 cup of rolled oats for a heartier smoothie.
* **Mango:** Add chunks of mango for a tropical flavor.
## Recipe 9: Beach Day Affogato
A simple, elegant dessert for coffee lovers. The creamy ice cream and hot espresso make a delightful combination.
**Ingredients:**
* 1-2 shots of hot espresso
* 1 scoop Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Espresso:** Brew a shot or two of hot espresso.
2. **Scoop Ice Cream:** Place a scoop of Beach Day ice cream in a small bowl or glass.
3. **Pour Espresso:** Immediately pour the hot espresso over the ice cream.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately and enjoy the melting ice cream with the strong coffee.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Liqueur:** Add a shot of coffee liqueur or amaretto for an extra kick.
* **Chocolate Shavings:** Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top.
* **Whipped Cream:** Add a dollop of whipped cream.
* **Caramel Drizzle:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
## Recipe 10: Beach Day Ice Cream Cupcakes
A fun twist on traditional cupcakes! These are perfect for parties and gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 baked cupcakes (any flavor, vanilla or chocolate recommended)
* 2 cups Baskin-Robbins Beach Day ice cream, softened
* Frosting (optional)
* Sprinkles (optional)
* Candy seashells and stars from the Beach Day ice cream (reserved)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Cupcakes:** Let the cupcakes cool completely.
2. **Core Cupcakes:** Use a cupcake corer or knife to remove the center of each cupcake, creating a small well.
3. **Fill with Ice Cream:** Spoon the softened Beach Day ice cream into the well of each cupcake.
4. **Freeze:** Freeze the cupcakes for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the ice cream is firm.
5. **Frost (Optional):** If desired, frost the cupcakes with your favorite frosting.
6. **Decorate:** Decorate with sprinkles and candy seashells and stars.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately or store in the freezer until ready to serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cupcake Flavors:** Experiment with different cupcake flavors like strawberry, lemon, or coconut.
* **Different Frosting Flavors:** Use different frosting flavors like cream cheese frosting, chocolate frosting, or vanilla buttercream.
* **Add a Filling:** Add a layer of jam or fruit filling to the bottom of the cupcake before adding the ice cream.
* **Chocolate Dip:** Dip the tops of the cupcakes in melted chocolate and freeze for a chocolate-covered treat.
## Beyond the Recipes: Beach Day Fun!
While these recipes are a great way to enjoy Baskin-Robbins’ Beach Day ice cream, don’t forget to embrace the summer spirit! Plan a beach day (real or imagined!), build a sandcastle, go swimming, and enjoy the sunshine. Pair your Beach Day ice cream creations with some classic summer activities for the ultimate summer experience. Share your creations on social media using #BeachDayBaskinRobbins – we’d love to see them!
This July, let Baskin-Robbins’ Beach Day ice cream inspire your culinary creativity and bring a taste of summer vacation to your kitchen. From parfaits to milkshakes, brownie sundaes to no-bake pies, the possibilities are endless. So grab a scoop (or two!) and get ready to make some sweet summer memories. Enjoy!