Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches

Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches are a classic frozen treat that combines creamy vanilla ice cream between two soft, chewy cookies. Perfect for summer days, parties, or as a nostalgic dessert, these homemade ice cream sandwiches are simple to make and can be customized with different flavors, coatings, and toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and steps make this a great homemade dessert.
• Customizable: Use different cookies, ice cream flavors, or add coatings for variety.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for kids, parties, or just a refreshing treat on a warm day.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and store in the freezer for a quick grab-and-go dessert.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (if making chocolate cookies)
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

For the ice cream:

• Vanilla ice cream (store-bought or homemade)

Optional toppings:

• Mini chocolate chips
• Sprinkles
• Crushed nuts
• Melted chocolate for dipping

Directions

1. Prepare the cookie dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Add milk to create a soft dough.
2. Shape and bake the cookies: Roll the dough and cut into uniform squares or circles. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until just set. Let them cool completely.
3. Prepare the ice cream layer: Let the vanilla ice cream soften slightly. Spread it evenly in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, then freeze until firm.
4. Assemble the sandwiches: Cut the ice cream into squares or circles to match the cookies. Sandwich a piece of ice cream between two cookies and press gently.
5. Freeze and serve: Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 8 ice cream sandwiches
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Bake time: 8-10 minutes
• Freeze time: At least 1 hour
• Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate chip cookie sandwiches: Use classic chocolate chip cookies instead of plain cookies.
• Double chocolate: Make chocolate cookies for a richer flavor.
• Peanut butter twist: Use peanut butter cookies and roll the edges in crushed peanuts.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cookies.
• Different ice cream flavors: Swap vanilla for chocolate, strawberry, or cookies and cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Freezer: Store wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Serving tip: Let the sandwiches sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before eating for a softer bite.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cookies?

Yes! Store-bought cookies work if you want a quicker version.

How do I prevent my cookies from getting too hard?

Bake until just set and let them cool completely before freezing. Soft cookies make better ice cream sandwiches.

Can I make mini ice cream sandwiches?

Yes! Use smaller cookies and cut the ice cream into smaller portions for bite-sized treats.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free ice cream and substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.

How do I get a perfect ice cream shape?

Freeze ice cream in a baking dish, then cut out pieces using a cookie cutter to match the cookie shape.

Can I dip these in chocolate?

Absolutely! Dip half of the sandwich in melted chocolate and freeze until set.

What’s the best way to soften ice cream for spreading?

Leave it at room temperature for 5-10 minutes until slightly soft but not melted.

Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream?

Yes! Stir in crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or nuts before freezing the ice cream layer.

How do I keep the sandwiches from sticking together?

Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before storing.

Can I use different shapes?

Yes! Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes like hearts or stars.

Conclusion

Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches are a nostalgic, homemade treat that everyone will love. With soft cookies and creamy vanilla ice cream, these sandwiches are perfect for any occasion. Try different variations, add fun toppings, and enjoy a cool, refreshing dessert straight from the freezer!

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