Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
Some desserts are more than just food; they’re a ticket to instant smiles and sweet memories. Homemade ice cream sandwiches fall squarely into that category. They’re a little messy, a lot delicious, and guaranteed to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite.
Whether you’re whipping these up for a family get-together, a birthday party, or just because it’s Tuesday, this recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat.
The Recipe: A Mom-Approved Classic
Ingredients
How to Make Them:
- Prep Your Workspace: Set up a mini assembly line with your cookies, ice cream, and toppings. Trust me, this makes things way less chaotic.
- Soften the Ice Cream: Let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly. You want it scoopable but not runny.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Scoop a generous dollop of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie.
- Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Aim for just enough pressure to spread the ice cream to the edges without cracking the cookie (been there, done that).
- Add the Fun Stuff: Roll the edges of the ice cream in a shallow dish of mini rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips. Feel free to substitute with sprinkles, crushed cookies, or whatever your heart desires.
- Freeze: Place the sandwiches on a tray lined with parchment paper and pop them in the freezer for at least an hour. This step is key to keeping them from falling apart the second you bite in.
- Enjoy: Serve them up and watch everyone’s faces light up.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Choose the Right Cookies: Soft and chewy cookies are easier to work with and less likely to crumble under pressure.
- Work Quickly: Ice cream melts fast, especially if you have little helpers. Assemble in batches and freeze as you go.
- Wrap Them Up: For a make-ahead option, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container. Perfect for sneaky late-night treats.
- Experiment with Flavors: Who says you have to stick to vanilla? Try chocolate, mint chip, or even a fruity sorbet for a fun twist.
Variations to Keep Things Interesting
Because variety is the spice of life (and dessert):
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Use peanut butter cookies and roll the edges in crushed peanuts or mini peanut butter cups.
- S’mores Style: Swap the chocolate chip cookies for graham crackers and add a layer of marshmallow fluff.
- Double Chocolate Dream: Use chocolate cookies and roll in mini chocolate chips for the ultimate chocoholic treat.
- Tropical Escape: Pair coconut cookies with pineapple or mango ice cream, and roll in toasted coconut flakes.
- Nutty Buddy: Use oatmeal cookies and roll in chopped pecans or walnuts for a grown-up twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to soften the ice cream before assembling?
Yes! Softened ice cream spreads more easily and creates that perfect edge for rolling in toppings.
2. Can I use store-bought cookies?
Absolutely. Store-bought cookies save time, and there are plenty of delicious options out there. Just look for ones that are soft and chewy.
3. What toppings work best?
Mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed cookies, chopped nuts, you name it. The key is to pick something small and sticky so it adheres to the ice cream.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap each sandwich individually and store in the freezer for up to a week. They’re perfect for prepping before a party.
5. How long do they need to freeze?
At least one hour, but longer is better if you want the ice cream to stay firm while you eat.
6. Can I make these with different flavors of ice cream?
Of course! Get creative with your favorite flavors. Cookies and cream, strawberry, or even pistachio would be amazing.
7. What’s the best way to serve these?
Straight from the freezer. If they’ve been sitting out for a bit, give them a few minutes to soften slightly for easier eating.
Why Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches Are a Mom’s Secret Weapon
These treats are more than just dessert, they’re a fun activity. The kids love helping out (and sneaking a few sprinkles), and you get to enjoy the satisfaction of making something that’s both fun and delicious. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit any occasion, from backyard barbecues to rainy-day boredom busters.
Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream
- Mini rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips
- Chocolate chip cookies store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Set up a mini assembly line with your cookies, ice cream, and toppings.
- Let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly. You want it scoopable but not runny.
- Scoop a generous dollop of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie. Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Aim for just enough pressure to spread the ice cream to the edges without cracking the cookie.
- Roll the edges of the ice cream in a shallow dish of mini rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips. Feel free to substitute with sprinkles, crushed cookies, or whatever your heart desires.
- Place the sandwiches on a tray lined with parchment paper and pop them in the freezer for at least an hour. This step is key to keeping them from falling apart the second you bite in.
- Serve them up and watch everyone’s faces light up.
Notes
- Choose the Right Cookies: Soft and chewy cookies are easier to work with and less likely to crumble under pressure.
- Work Quickly: Ice cream melts fast, especially if you have little helpers. Assemble in batches and freeze as you go.
- Wrap Them Up: For a make-ahead option, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container. Perfect for sneaky late-night treats.
- Experiment with Flavors: Who says you have to stick to vanilla? Try chocolate, mint chip, or even a fruity sorbet for a fun twist.
