Ice cream sandwiches are a classic treat that combines the best of both worlds: creamy, chilled ice cream nestled between two sweet, soft cookies. This delightful dessert is not only fun to eat but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures to create your perfect sandwich. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer party or simply want a nostalgic treat, homemade ice cream sandwiches are a fantastic choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make these indulgent desserts from scratch, using a variety of flavor options and tips to ensure your ice cream sandwiches turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
To create delicious homemade ice cream sandwiches, you will need the following ingredients for both the cookies and the ice cream:
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Ice Cream:
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream (or flavor of your choice)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional, for rolling the edges)
How to Make Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Prepare the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. - Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. If desired, fold in 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts. - Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Ice Cream
- Soften the Ice Cream
Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it soften for about 10-15 minutes to make it easier to scoop and spread.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Scoop the Ice Cream
Place a scoop of softened ice cream on the bottom side of one cookie. Gently press another cookie, bottom side down, onto the ice cream to form a sandwich. You can use a spatula to smooth the ice cream to the edges of the cookies if needed. - Optional: Roll the Edges
If desired, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in chocolate chips or sprinkles for added texture and decoration.
- Freeze and Serve
- Freeze the Sandwiches
Place the assembled ice cream sandwiches on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 1 hour to allow the ice cream to firm up. - Serve
Once the sandwiches are frozen solid, they are ready to enjoy! Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
About the Main Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies. It’s important to measure the flour correctly to avoid overly dry or crumbly cookies.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender cookie texture. Make sure it is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: Both sugars contribute to the sweetness and texture of the cookies. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight chewiness.
- Egg: Acts as a binder and adds moisture to the cookie dough.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Optional add-ins that add extra flavor and texture to the cookies.
- Ice Cream: The star of the sandwich, providing a creamy, cold contrast to the warm cookies. You can use any flavor you like, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options.
- Chocolate Chips or Sprinkles: Optional for rolling the edges, adding a fun touch and extra texture to the finished sandwiches.
Making homemade ice cream sandwiches is a fun and rewarding process that results in a delicious treat everyone will love. With a bit of preparation and creativity, you can enjoy these sweet and creamy desserts any time. Enjoy your homemade ice cream sandwiches and the smiles they bring!
