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.