Christmas in July

So, it's HOT outside, and I realize most aren't even thinking about the holidays yet, but as much as I love summer I have to admit that I have started Christmas shopping! (Yes, I know, you think I'm crazy, but Christmas is less than 5 months away!) Plus I recently purchased my mother in law a Taste of Home Holiday Celebrations cookbook, and while browsing through it before I handed it off--ha ha-- I stumbled upon this dessert recipe in the Christmas section and it just spoke to me! I literally can't wait until I can try it; but I will say since it includes ice cream, I might not be waiting for the holiday season to do so!

Frosty Ginger Pumpkin Squares

1/4 cup butter, melted

1 c. crushed graham crackers (about 16)

1 c. crushed gingersnaps (about 18)

2 c. canned pumpkin

1 c. sugar

1/2-1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1 c. chopped walnuts

1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream, slightly softened

In a large bowl, combine the butter and crushed graham crackers and cookies. Press half the crumb mixture into an ungreased 9X13 pan. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and nutmeg. Stir in walnuts. Fold in softened ice cream. Spoon into crust. Sprinkle w/ remaining crumb mixture. Freeze until firm, about 3 hours.