Save
Few desserts bring instant joy like ice cream cookie sandwiches with their playful blend of chewy cookies and creamy frozen filling These treats are wonderfully simple to make customizable and always a hit at any celebration or just for a fun weekday treat at home
I first started making these in my college dorm using store bought cookies and the cheapest ice cream I could find Now it is our go to family movie night dessert because everyone can pick their favorite combos
Ingredients
- Chocolate chip cookies: Choose soft and chewy ones as they freeze better and are easier to bite through Homemade or high quality store bought both work well
- Vanilla ice cream: Go for a creamy dense brand and let it soften a bit for easier scooping The flavor is a classic blank canvas
- Mini chocolate chips: Add crunch and extra chocolate flavor Press them into the sides for that bakery look
- Rainbow sprinkles: Brings fun color and texture especially for kids or parties Choose a quality brand that will not bleed colors
- Chopped nuts: Such as peanuts or pecans These add richness and balance out the sweetness Toasting them briefly in a dry pan boosts their flavor
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cookies:
- If baking your own allow cookies to cool fully so they hold their shape You want them at room temperature before adding ice cream
- Line Your Sheet:
- Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat This prevents sticking and keeps your sandwiches easy to move
- Build the Base:
- Lay out eight cookies flat side up on your lined sheet Use cookies that are roughly the same size for even sandwiches
- Scoop the Ice Cream:
- Scoop about one quarter to one third cup of softened vanilla ice cream onto each cookie The ice cream should be supple but not melting
- Top and Press:
- Gently press another cookie flat side down onto the ice cream Try not to squeeze too firmly or the ice cream will ooze out
- Decorate the Edges:
- For flair roll the edges in mini chips sprinkles or chopped nuts Press gently so toppings stick You can mix and match your toppings too
- Freeze to Set:
- Return finished sandwiches to the lined sheet and freeze for at least one hour This firms up the ice cream and helps the sandwiches hold together
- Serve or Store:
- Enjoy right out of the freezer or wrap each sandwich in parchment for grab and go treats They stay delicious for up to a month if well wrapped
Save
My favorite part is dipping the sides in chocolate chips and watching the kids negotiate who gets the last one Every birthday my sister requests these with cherry ice cream and double chocolate cookies for her celebration
Storage Tips
Make sure sandwiches are fully frozen before wrapping tightly in parchment or foil and then in a resealable bag This keeps them fresher for longer and prevents freezer burn Store away from foods with strong smells to avoid flavor absorption Ice cream cookie sandwiches last up to one month in the freezer
Ingredient Substitutions
Experiment with oatmeal peanut butter or even gluten free cookies for different dietary needs For the ice cream almost any flavor works Chocolate strawberry coffee cookie dough or mint chip all add delicious variety Dairy free ice cream is a great alternative if needed
Serving Suggestions
Let the sandwiches sit at room temperature for three to five minutes before serving for the best texture For a party set up a DIY station with bowls of toppings so guests can decorate their own sandwiches Pair with whipped cream dipped in chocolate or even a drizzle of caramel
Save
Quick History
Ice cream sandwiches date back to the early 1900s in the United States Often first sold by street vendors their enduring popularity comes from childhood nostalgia and the magical combination of two favorite desserts in one bite Today every region has its own spin from wafer to cookie bases
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I prevent ice cream from melting during assembly?
Let the ice cream soften just enough to scoop easily, then work quickly to assemble. Place sandwiches back in the freezer immediately after preparing.
- → Can I use other cookie flavors besides chocolate chip?
Absolutely! Oatmeal, double chocolate, or even peanut butter cookies make delicious alternatives—just ensure they're soft and not crumbly.
- → What is the best way to store the finished sandwiches?
Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Yes! Try chocolate, strawberry, mint chip, or any favorite flavor for creative twists and a variety of tastes in each batch.
- → Are these sandwiches suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as the cookies and ice cream you use contain no gelatin or animal-based additives. Always read ingredient labels for confirmation.
- → How do I get clean edges on the sandwiches?
Use a round cookie cutter to trim the edges after assembly, or smooth the sides using a spatula for a neat, uniform look.