These homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches are the ultimate summer treat! Creamy vanilla ice cream is sandwiched between chewy, chocolatey homemade cookies. They are way better than store-bought, with a soft cookie layer that stays easy to bite, even when frozen. Customize with your favorite ice cream flavors or fun add-ins like sprinkles and chocolate chips for a personal touch.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 (1½-quart) container vanilla ice cream (3 pints or 6 cups)
1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (100g)
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1¼ cups unsalted butter, softened (283g)
1¼ cups granulated sugar (250g)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs

Directions

Prepare the Ice Cream Layer:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature until soft (about 30 minutes).
- Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Spread the softened ice cream into the pan in an even layer and freeze until solid.
Make the Cookie Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter an 18×13-inch baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Cookie Layer:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the top is dry and the sides pull slightly from the pan.
- Let the cookie layer cool slightly in the pan, then transfer it with the parchment paper to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, cut the cookie layer in half widthwise to create two 9×13-inch slabs.
Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches:
- Place one cookie slab on a cutting board. Flip the frozen ice cream layer on top, followed by the second cookie slab. Trim edges as needed for a clean fit.
- Wrap the entire sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze until firm (at least 4 hours or overnight).
Serve the Sandwiches:
- Cut into 12 sandwiches using a warm serrated knife for cleaner slices. Enjoy immediately or store in the freezer.

Nutrients

Calories: 456 kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 111mg
Sodium: 184mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 35g
Calcium: 116mg
Iron: 2mg

Enjoy these delicious homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches – a perfect treat to cool down on a hot day!

Why Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches Are Better

Store-bought ice cream sandwiches can be convenient, but they often lack the fresh taste and soft texture of homemade ones. Making these treats from scratch allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. The homemade cookies in this recipe stay soft and chewy, even when frozen, making them easier to bite into compared to the harder, more brittle store-bought versions. Plus, you can ensure there are no artificial preservatives or unwanted additives, resulting in a purer and more delicious dessert.

Tips for Perfect Ice Cream Sandwiches

Softening the Ice Cream Properly: Allowing the ice cream to soften at room temperature before spreading it ensures a smooth and even layer. Be careful not to let it melt completely; it should be soft but still hold its shape.
Baking the Cookies Evenly: Use a large baking sheet and spread the batter evenly to achieve a uniform cookie layer. This ensures consistent texture and makes assembly easier.
Freezing Time: For the best results, freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least four hours or overnight. This firms up the layers and makes slicing cleaner and easier.
Cutting Clean Slices: Use a warm serrated knife to cut the ice cream sandwiches into portions. Warming the knife helps it glide through the frozen layers without cracking the cookies.
Customization: Experiment with different ice cream flavors or mix-ins. Consider adding a layer of caramel or fudge for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures your homemade ice cream sandwiches stay fresh and delicious. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and maintain their texture. Once wrapped, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, these ice cream sandwiches can last up to two months. For the best taste and texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for a minute or two before serving.

Variations to Try

Chocolate Chip Cookie Base: Swap the chocolate cookie layer for a classic chocolate chip cookie for a twist on the traditional sandwich.
Mint Chocolate: Use mint chocolate chip ice cream for a refreshing summer treat.
Fruity Delight: Try a fruit-based ice cream like strawberry or raspberry for a lighter, fruitier option.
Double Chocolate: Mix chocolate chunks into the cookie batter and use chocolate ice cream for a rich, double chocolate experience.
Vegan Option: Substitute dairy-free ice cream and use plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly version without compromising on taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these ice cream sandwiches ahead of time? Yes! These sandwiches are perfect for making ahead. Assemble and freeze them in advance, then simply cut and serve when needed. Properly stored, they can last up to two months.

2. How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too hard? The cookie layer in this recipe is designed to stay soft even when frozen. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause them to harden. Slightly underbaking the cookies will keep them chewy.

3. Can I use store-bought cookies and ice cream? Absolutely. While homemade versions taste fresher, you can assemble quick ice cream sandwiches using store-bought cookies and your favorite ice cream.

4. What other shapes can I make? Get creative by using cookie cutters to make fun shapes like hearts or stars. Just ensure your cookie layer is thick enough to hold its shape.

5. How do I serve ice cream sandwiches to a crowd? Pre-slice the sandwiches and arrange them on a platter. You can also wrap individual sandwiches in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go treats at parties.

Conclusion

Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect way to beat the heat and treat yourself to something special. With their soft, chewy cookie layer and creamy ice cream filling, they are a delightful upgrade from store-bought options. The ability to customize the flavors and add unique touches makes them a versatile dessert suitable for any occasion. By following the tips and tricks outlined above, you can easily create these delicious treats at home. Whether you’re making them for a summer celebration or just to satisfy a craving, these ice cream sandwiches will quickly become a household favorite. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of these homemade delights!

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Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrients

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