Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect indulgence for hot summer days or any time you’re in the mood for a delicious, cool treat. Combining the creamy sweetness of ice cream with the comforting texture of soft cookies, these handheld desserts are a nostalgic favorite that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or simply as a fun weekend project, Ice Cream Sandwiches are an easy, customizable dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.

The beauty of an Ice Cream Sandwich lies in its simplicity. With just two key components—cookies and ice cream—you can create a dessert that’s both satisfying and delightful. The contrast between the cold, creamy ice cream and the warm, chewy cookies creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, there’s room for creativity, as you can customize the type of cookies, ice cream, and even the toppings that surround the sandwich.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Ice Cream Sandwich from scratch, share tips for selecting the best ingredients, and suggest variations to make your Ice Cream Sandwiches uniquely your own. From classic flavors to fun twists, these treats are versatile enough to please everyone’s taste buds.

Why You’ll Love Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Customizable and Versatile: Ice Cream Sandwiches are incredibly versatile. You can choose any flavor of cookies and ice cream to create endless combinations. Whether you prefer chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, or even brownie cookies, the possibilities are endless. You can also select your favorite ice cream flavor, from classic vanilla to more adventurous choices like salted caramel or mint chocolate chip.
• Perfect Texture Combination: The contrast between the soft, chewy cookies and the cold, creamy ice cream makes each bite irresistible. The cookies provide a satisfying bite while the ice cream adds a smooth, creamy finish.
• Easy to Make: While store-bought versions are available, making your own Ice Cream Sandwiches at home allows you to choose the best ingredients and tailor the treat to your preferences. With just a few simple steps, you can make these at home in no time.
• Fun and Interactive: Making Ice Cream Sandwiches is a fun activity that can be done with family or friends. Everyone can create their own custom sandwiches by picking out their favorite cookie and ice cream flavors.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, summer barbecue, or a simple weeknight treat, Ice Cream Sandwiches are perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to serve and make an impressive, delicious dessert that everyone will love.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for cookies)
• Chilling Time: 1 hour (for sandwiches to set)
• Servings: Approximately 8-10 Ice Cream Sandwiches (depending on size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per sandwich, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20-25g

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips (or your favorite add-ins)

For the Ice Cream:

• 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or any flavor of your choice)
• Optional: ½ cup crushed nuts, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips (for coating the edges of the sandwiches)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking during baking.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients will help the cookies rise and hold their shape.

In a separate, larger bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Once the butter and sugar mixture is smooth, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the dough come together, while the vanilla adds a lovely aroma and flavor.

Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so stop once the dough has come together.

Fold in the chocolate chips (or any other add-ins you desire, like chopped nuts or candy pieces) with a spatula or spoon. These little morsels will add extra flavor and texture to your cookies.

2. Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Space them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. If you want larger sandwiches, feel free to scoop out more dough for bigger cookies. Gently press down on each dough ball with the back of a spoon to flatten it slightly, as this will help the cookies spread evenly as they bake.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. If you like your cookies a bit chewy, you can remove them a minute or two earlier. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Ice Cream

While the cookies are cooling, take your ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and spread between the cookies.

Once the ice cream is softened, use a large spoon or an ice cream scooper to scoop out a generous portion of ice cream. You want enough ice cream to fill the center of each cookie but not too much that it overflows. If you want to use multiple flavors, you can layer the ice cream between the cookies for a fun, colorful effect.

4. Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches

Once the cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to assemble your Ice Cream Sandwiches. Take one cookie and place a generous scoop of softened ice cream on the flat side of the cookie. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the ice cream to the edges, ensuring the entire cookie is covered.

Take another cookie and gently press it, flat side down, onto the ice cream, making a sandwich. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid squeezing the ice cream out of the sides. If the ice cream begins to squish out too much, you can pop the sandwiches into the freezer for a few minutes to firm up before continuing.

5. Chill the Sandwiches

Once all your Ice Cream Sandwiches are assembled, place them in the freezer to chill for at least 1 hour. This step ensures that the ice cream firms up and the sandwich stays intact when you bite into it. If you prefer a firmer ice cream texture, you can leave them in the freezer for several hours or overnight.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once your Ice Cream Sandwiches are properly chilled, they are ready to be served. You can enjoy them as is or roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or any other topping of your choice. These toppings add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making each bite even more indulgent.

Slice them into halves or quarters for smaller portions, or serve them whole for a fun, handheld dessert.

Tips for Perfect Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Choose Soft Cookies: For the best texture, make sure the cookies are soft and chewy. Crispy cookies can be too brittle and may break when you try to assemble the sandwiches. You can even make the cookies thinner to balance out the ice cream-to-cookie ratio.
• Use Room Temperature Ice Cream: Allow the ice cream to soften just slightly before assembling the sandwiches. Softened ice cream is easier to work with and will spread better between the cookies.
• Customize the Flavors: Experiment with different types of cookies (like oatmeal, peanut butter, or snickerdoodle) and ice cream flavors (like mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, or salted caramel) to create your own unique Ice Cream Sandwiches.
• Add Fun Toppings: After assembling the sandwiches, roll the edges in toppings like crushed candies, coconut flakes, or even chopped fruits for a personalized touch. This adds color and extra flavor to the sandwiches.
• Make Ahead: Ice Cream Sandwiches are great for preparing ahead of time. Once assembled and frozen, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the freezer. This makes them perfect for summer gatherings or parties where you want to have desserts ready in advance.

Variations of Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use brownies instead of cookies for a rich, fudgy base. Brownie edges that are slightly underbaked create a chewy, gooey texture that pairs perfectly with ice cream.
• Vegan Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free ice cream and vegan cookies. There are many delicious plant-based ice creams available in a variety of flavors.
• Banana Split Ice Cream Sandwiches: Incorporate banana slices into the sandwich for a banana split-inspired treat. Top with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use graham cracker cookies and add a toasted marshmallow flavor or topping for a s’mores-inspired sandwich.

Storage and Shelf Life

Ice Cream Sandwiches should be stored in the freezer. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing any freezer odors. They will stay fresh for up to a week in the freezer, though they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Ice Cream Sandwiches

While these Ice Cream Sandwiches are a treat on their own, they pair wonderfully with:

• Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad, berries, or tropical fruits like pineapple and mango for a refreshing contrast.
• Milk or Milkshakes: A classic glass of cold milk or a milkshake complements the creaminess of the ice cream perfectly.
• Coffee or Espresso: The richness of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies and ice cream.

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Conclusion

Ice Cream Sandwiches are a timeless, indulgent treat that everyone loves. They combine the best of both worlds—cool, creamy ice cream and chewy, flavorful cookies—into a single bite-sized dessert. With endless possibilities for customization, they’re a fun and easy way to create a personalized treat that suits your taste.

Whether you stick to the classic chocolate chip cookie and vanilla ice cream combo or experiment with different cookies, ice cream flavors, and toppings, Ice Cream Sandwiches are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. They’re simple to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who takes a bite. Enjoy!