Discover how to make easy ice cream sandwiches, the best homemade cool treats for summer. Delicious, simple, and perfect for hot days. Try this recipe now!
Easy Ice Cream Sandwiches: The Best Homemade Cool Treats for Summer
Easy ice cream sandwiches are a classic summer favorite that you can make right at home with simple ingredients. These cool treats combine soft cookies and creamy ice cream in a way that’s perfect for a hot day. This recipe is straightforward and fun to customize with your favorite flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a BBQ or enjoying a sweet break, homemade ice cream sandwiches are sure to please.
Why You’ll Love It
These ice cream sandwiches are easy to prepare and perfect for summer. You get the best homemade flavors without much effort and the flexibility to switch up ingredients. With soft chocolate cookies and creamy vanilla ice cream, they offer the perfect balance of sweet and cool. Plus, they’re a great way to impress guests or treat your family to something special.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (can substitute with vegan butter)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (use coconut sugar for refined sugar-free)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour blend if needed)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened (dairy-free ice cream optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheets and gently flatten each cookie.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks before assembling sandwiches.
- Scoop softened vanilla ice cream onto one cookie and top with another to form sandwiches.
For more delicious sweet treats, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies recipes.
Find inspiration and tips on Food Network.
Expert Tips
Keep your cookie dough chilled if it feels too soft before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape. Use softened—not melted—ice cream for easy spreading and assembly. For extra flair, roll sandwich edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts. Make a double batch and freeze extras for quick, ready-to-eat cool treats anytime.
Storage
Store ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent sticking, layer sandwiches between parchment paper. When ready to serve, let thaw at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
Variations
- Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan butter, use flax eggs, and dairy-free ice cream.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure baking soda is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy ice cream options.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Swap white sugar for coconut sugar and use suitable ice cream sweeteners.
FAQ
- Can I make easy ice cream sandwiches ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare the cookies in advance and freeze assembled sandwiches for up to two weeks.
- What types of ice cream work best in these sandwiches?
- Vanilla is classic, but any firm, scoopable ice cream flavor can be used. Experiment with chocolate, strawberry, or mint!
- How do I keep the sandwiches from melting too fast?
- Keep assembled sandwiches in the freezer until ready to serve and only thaw briefly before eating.
- Are these easy ice cream sandwiches suitable for kids?
- Absolutely! They’re a fun, kid-friendly treat and a great activity to make together.
- Can I use store-bought cookies instead of homemade?
- You can! Use soft cookies like chocolate wafers or chewy chocolate chip cookies for best results.
Call to Action
We’d love to hear your thoughts on these easy ice cream sandwiches! Share your favorite flavor combos or tips in the comments below. Don’t forget to rate and save this recipe for your next summer gathering. Enjoy your homemade cool treats!
