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Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a classic, cool, and utterly delicious ice cream sandwich?
This perfect fusion of creamy ice cream and chewy, crunchy, or cakey outsides is the ultimate treat for hot weather.
Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolaty, or nutty, these 10 recipes will keep you refreshed and satisfied all summer long!
Ready to dive into some sweet summer fun?
Here are 10 irresistible ice cream sandwich recipes you have to try this season!
1. Double Chocolate Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
The Ultimate Indulgence
Chocolate lovers, rejoice!
This ice cream sandwich pairs rich, fudgy brownies with smooth chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Ingredients:
- 2 large brownies (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 scoops of chocolate ice cream
- Chocolate chips for rolling the edges (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut your brownies into squares or use a cookie cutter for round shapes.
- Scoop the chocolate ice cream onto one brownie and top with the second brownie.
- Gently press down and smooth the edges.
- Roll the edges in chocolate chips if desired, and freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Add a layer of peanut butter or Nutella between the brownies for an extra indulgent twist!
2. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich
Light and Fruity
This refreshing take on an ice cream sandwich combines buttery shortcake biscuits with creamy strawberry ice cream.
It’s the perfect dessert for a summer picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 shortcake biscuits (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 scoops of strawberry ice cream
- Fresh strawberry slices (optional)
Instructions:
- Slice the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
- Place a scoop of strawberry ice cream on the bottom half of the biscuit and top with the other half.
- Add fresh strawberry slices for a burst of freshness.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours to firm up before serving.
Pro Tip: Drizzle with a bit of honey or sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
3. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
A Timeless Favorite
You can’t go wrong with this tried-and-true favorite.
Soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies paired with vanilla ice cream—simple, yet satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 2 large chocolate chip cookies
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- Sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for rolling the edges (optional)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two chocolate chip cookies.
- Press down gently to create the sandwich.
- Roll the edges in sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for a fun touch.
- Freeze for 1 hour before serving.
Pro Tip: Warm the cookies slightly before adding the ice cream for a gooey, delicious contrast!
4. Oatmeal Cookie & Cinnamon Ice Cream Sandwich
Comfort in Every Bite
For a cozy twist, this ice cream sandwich features soft oatmeal cookies filled with cinnamon ice cream—a match made in dessert heaven!
Ingredients:
- 2 oatmeal cookies
- 2 scoops of cinnamon ice cream
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for rolling the edges (optional)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of cinnamon ice cream between two oatmeal cookies.
- Gently press together to form a sandwich.
- Roll the edges in chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Freeze for at least 1 hour before enjoying.
Pro Tip: Swap out cinnamon ice cream for butter pecan if you want a richer flavor.
5. Peanut Butter Cookie & Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich
A Nutty Delight
Peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this one’s for you!
Creamy chocolate ice cream sandwiched between two soft peanut butter cookies is a flavor combination you won’t forget.
Ingredients:
- 2 peanut butter cookies
- 2 scoops of chocolate ice cream
- Crushed peanuts for rolling (optional)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of chocolate ice cream on one peanut butter cookie and top with another.
- Press down slightly to form the sandwich.
- Roll the edges in crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Use salted peanut butter cookies for a sweet-salty combo!
6. Coconut Macaroon & Mango Ice Cream Sandwich
Tropical Bliss
This tropical twist combines chewy coconut macaroons with creamy mango ice cream for a refreshing summer treat that will transport you straight to the beach.
Ingredients:
- 2 coconut macaroons
- 2 scoops of mango ice cream
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of mango ice cream between two coconut macaroons.
- Press down gently to create the sandwich.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness.
7. Vegan Chocolate Cookie & Coconut Ice Cream Sandwich
Dairy-Free Delight
For those seeking a dairy-free option, this vegan ice cream sandwich uses chocolate cookies and coconut-based ice cream for a treat that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 vegan chocolate cookies
- 2 scoops of coconut ice cream
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of coconut ice cream between two vegan chocolate cookies.
- Press down to form the sandwich.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a flavor boost!
8. Salted Caramel Ice Cream Sandwich
Sweet and Salty Perfection
If you love the combination of sweet and salty, this salted caramel ice cream sandwich is the perfect treat.
Use your favorite caramel ice cream and pair it with shortbread cookies for a buttery, delicious crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 shortbread cookies
- 2 scoops of salted caramel ice cream
- Sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of salted caramel ice cream between two shortbread cookies.
- Press together gently.
- Sprinkle sea salt on the edges for a touch of sophistication.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Drizzle caramel sauce inside the sandwich for extra indulgence.
9. Banana Bread & Coffee Ice Cream Sandwich
Bold and Flavorful
Coffee lovers will adore this banana bread and coffee ice cream pairing.
The soft, slightly sweet banana bread complements the bold, creamy coffee ice cream beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of banana bread
- 2 scoops of coffee ice cream
Instructions:
- Slice banana bread into thick, even slices.
- Place a scoop of coffee ice cream between two slices of banana bread.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Add a few chocolate chips to the banana bread for an extra flavor boost.
10. Funfetti Cookie & Birthday Cake Ice Cream Sandwich
Party in Every Bite!
Celebrate summer with this festive Funfetti cookie and birthday cake ice cream sandwich.
It’s colorful, sweet, and perfect for kids (and adults) of all ages!
Ingredients:
- 2 Funfetti cookies
- 2 scoops of birthday cake ice cream
- Sprinkles for rolling
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of birthday cake ice cream between two Funfetti cookies.
- Press down slightly to form the sandwich.
- Roll the edges in rainbow sprinkles for an extra pop of color.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Add a candle for a fun summer birthday celebration!
Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Ice Cream Sandwich
To ensure your ice cream sandwiches come out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips and tricks:
1. Soften Ice Cream Slightly Before Assembling
- Let the ice cream soften for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before scooping it. This makes it easier to work with and prevents the cookies or biscuits from breaking when you press them together.
2. Chill Your Cookies First
- For cookies that hold up well, pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before adding ice cream. This prevents them from getting too soft or soggy when you add the ice cream.
3. Use a Cookie Cutter for Perfect Shapes
- Want perfect, even ice cream sandwiches? Use a round or square cookie cutter to cut your cookies and ice cream into consistent shapes. This is especially handy for store-bought cookies or homemade brownies.
4. Press the Sandwiches Gently
- When forming the sandwich, press gently to avoid squeezing out the ice cream. If needed, use a spatula to even out the edges and ensure the sandwich looks neat.
5. Wrap and Freeze for Firmness
- After assembling, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or wax paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. This will help the sandwich firm up and prevent messy eating.
6. Don’t Overfill with Ice Cream
- While it’s tempting to pack in as much ice cream as possible, too much can lead to messy melting. A moderate scoop in the center spreads evenly without overflowing.
7. Use High-Quality Ice Cream and Cookies
- The quality of your ingredients matters! For the best results, use high-quality ice cream and freshly baked (or premium store-bought) cookies.
8. Customizing the Edges
- Roll the edges of your ice cream sandwiches in toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or mini chocolate chips for a fun and colorful touch!
Now it’s your turn! Which of these ice cream sandwiches will you try first?
Leave a comment below with your favorite combination or share your creations on social media using the hashtag #IceCreamSandwichSummer!
Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more summer dessert ideas delivered right to your inbox!
Why These Recipes Are Perfect for Summer
Ice cream sandwiches are not only delicious but also fun to make, versatile, and the ultimate cooling treat during hot summer days.
They are easy to customize and can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for parties, BBQs, or even an indulgent afternoon snack.
Customization Ideas and Variations
One of the best things about ice cream sandwiches is their endless versatility.
You can mix and match flavors, textures, and ingredients to create a truly personalized treat that suits your cravings or dietary needs.
Whether you’re looking to experiment with new combinations or cater to specific tastes, here are some creative ways to customize your ice cream sandwiches:
1. Flavor Variations
- Mix Up the Ice Cream: Don’t feel limited to vanilla or chocolate ice cream! Experiment with unique flavors like:
- Mint chocolate chip for a refreshing twist.
- Cookies and cream for added texture and richness.
- Pistachio for a nutty, creamy contrast to sweet cookies.
- Matcha green tea for an earthy, slightly bitter balance with sweet cookies or brownies.
- Blueberry cheesecake for a fruity and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with shortbread cookies.
- Layer Multiple Flavors: For an extra special treat, layer two or more flavors of ice cream in your sandwich (e.g., vanilla and strawberry, or chocolate and peanut butter). This creates a beautiful visual effect and a more complex flavor profile.
2. Alternative Cookie Bases
The classic cookie ice cream sandwich can be made with many different kinds of bases:
- Brownies: Fudgy or cakey brownies make an indulgent base. You can cut them into rounds or squares for a rich and chewy sandwich.
- Macarons: For a fancy touch, use French macarons as the cookie base. Their delicate texture and almond flavor pair well with almost any ice cream.
- Rice Krispies Treats: If you want something with a fun, chewy texture, try making ice cream sandwiches with homemade Rice Krispies Treats.
- Waffles: Use small, round waffles as your base for a fun breakfast-inspired treat. The soft, airy texture works perfectly with creamy ice cream.
- Graham Crackers: For a s’mores-inspired variation, use graham crackers and pair them with marshmallow or chocolate ice cream.
3. Dietary Customizations
Catering to different dietary preferences or restrictions is easy with a few tweaks:
- Vegan Ice Cream Sandwiches: There are many excellent dairy-free ice creams available today, made from coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Combine them with vegan cookies or brownies for a delicious treat that’s completely plant-based.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free cookies or brownies for the base. Many gluten-free cookies, especially peanut butter or almond flour varieties, hold up well in ice cream sandwiches.
- Sugar-Free: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try using sugar-free cookies or brownies and pairing them with a low-sugar or keto-friendly ice cream made from alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
- Keto-Friendly: Opt for keto-friendly cookies (almond or coconut flour) and pair them with low-carb ice cream. Peanut butter cookies or coconut macaroons work particularly well in keto versions.
4. Topping Ideas
Add even more fun and flavor by rolling the edges of your ice cream sandwiches in a variety of toppings:
- Sprinkles: Classic rainbow or chocolate sprinkles are always a hit, especially for kids or parties.
- Crushed Cookies: Roll the edges in crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or ginger snaps for an extra crunchy bite.
- Nuts: Finely chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or pistachios add a nice contrast in texture and a rich, nutty flavor.
- Candy Pieces: Crushed M&Ms, mini chocolate chips, or Reese’s Pieces add a pop of color and fun crunch to your ice cream sandwiches.
- Shredded Coconut: Toasted coconut gives your sandwiches a tropical flavor and an extra crispy texture.
- Cereal Crumbs: Crush your favorite breakfast cereals (like Fruity Pebbles, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, or Cornflakes) and roll the edges of your sandwiches for a playful, crunchy twist.
5. Fun Shapes
Give your ice cream sandwiches a fun visual twist by using cookie cutters to create shapes:
- Stars, hearts, or circles: Cut your cookies or brownies into fun shapes before assembling the sandwiches.
- Holiday Themes: For a festive touch, make sandwiches in seasonal shapes like pumpkins for Halloween or trees for Christmas, and color-coordinate your ice cream and toppings.
- Layered Ice Cream Bars: Instead of sandwiching the ice cream between cookies, layer it in a rectangular pan with cookie crumbles, freeze it, and then cut it into bars or squares for an easy and uniform batch.
6. Adding Swirls and Mix-ins to Ice Cream
- Caramel or Chocolate Swirls: Before assembling your sandwiches, add caramel, fudge, or fruit swirls to the ice cream for a flavor surprise in every bite.
- Mix-ins: Incorporate mix-ins like cookie dough pieces, crushed candy bars, marshmallow fluff, or chocolate chunks into your ice cream for added texture and indulgence.
7. Seasonal Flavors
Adapt your ice cream sandwiches to match the season:
- Summer: Use fresh fruit-flavored ice creams (like mango, peach, or strawberry) paired with sugar cookies or lemon shortbread for a light, refreshing treat.
- Fall: Pair pumpkin spice ice cream with gingersnap cookies, or opt for cinnamon ice cream with oatmeal cookies.
- Winter: Peppermint ice cream with chocolate cookies is a perfect holiday combination. For a festive touch, roll the edges in crushed candy canes.
8. Different Ice Cream Textures
Play around with different textures of ice cream:
- Soft-Serve vs. Hard Ice Cream: Soft-serve ice cream will give you a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while hard ice cream offers more structure and firmness.
- Gelato: For a denser, creamier option, use gelato instead of traditional ice cream in your sandwiches.
With these customization ideas and variations, the possibilities for your ice cream sandwiches are truly endless!
Whether you want to experiment with new flavors, cater to dietary preferences, or create a visually stunning dessert, these tips will ensure your ice cream sandwiches are just as unique as they are delicious.
Now it’s your turn!
Which of these ice cream sandwiches will you try first?
Leave a comment below with your favorite combination or share your creations on social media using the hashtag #IceCreamSandwichSummer!
Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more summer dessert ideas delivered right to your inbox!
Bonus: Storage Tips for Ice Cream Sandwiches
To keep your ice cream sandwiches fresh and delicious, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper before placing them in the freezer.
For best results, enjoy them within 2 weeks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make ice cream sandwiches ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Ice cream sandwiches are perfect for making in advance.
- Once assembled, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and store them in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- This allows you to have a delicious, ready-to-eat treat whenever you want.
2. What’s the best way to store ice cream sandwiches to keep them fresh?
- To keep your ice cream sandwiches fresh and prevent freezer burn, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or wax paper, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag.
- Storing them in a single layer, rather than stacking, helps maintain their shape and texture.
3. Can I use store-bought cookies or brownies?
- Yes! Store-bought cookies, brownies, or even wafers work great and can save you time.
- Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the ice cream without becoming too soft or crumbly.
- Choose your favorite brands, or experiment with different types for variety.
4. How do I keep the ice cream from melting too quickly?
- The key is to work quickly and keep everything cold.
- Chill your cookies or brownie bases in the freezer for about 15 minutes before assembling the sandwiches.
- Soften the ice cream just enough to scoop easily, but not so much that it becomes runny.
- Once assembled, freeze the sandwiches again for at least 1 hour to firm them up before serving.
5. What type of cookies are best for ice cream sandwiches?
- Soft, chewy cookies work best because they’re easy to bite into when frozen.
- Classic choices like chocolate chip, oatmeal, peanut butter, and shortbread cookies are popular.
- You can also use brownies, Rice Krispies treats, or even graham crackers for a creative twist.
6. Can I make a healthier version of an ice cream sandwich?
- Definitely!
- There are plenty of ways to make a healthier ice cream sandwich.
- You can use low-fat or dairy-free ice cream, pair them with whole grain or gluten-free cookies, or even use fresh fruit slices like bananas or apples as the “cookie” base. For a low-sugar version, try keto or sugar-free ice creams and cookies.
7. Can I use frozen yogurt or sorbet instead of ice cream?
- Yes! Frozen yogurt, sorbet, and gelato all make excellent alternatives to traditional ice cream.
- Sorbet is a great dairy-free option and adds a light, fruity flavor that pairs well with sugar cookies or graham crackers.
- Just keep in mind that these alternatives may have slightly different textures compared to regular ice cream.
8. Why do my cookies get soggy when making ice cream sandwiches?
- Soggy cookies are often the result of assembling the sandwiches while the ice cream is too soft or warm.
- To prevent this, freeze your cookies for about 15 minutes before adding the ice cream.
- Make sure the ice cream is firm but still scoopable, and work quickly.
- Once assembled, freeze the sandwiches right away to maintain the texture of the cookies.
9. How do I get perfectly shaped ice cream for my sandwiches?
- To create uniform ice cream layers, you can press softened ice cream into a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until firm, then use a cookie cutter that matches the size of your cookie base to cut out perfect ice cream shapes.
- You can also use a round ice cream scoop for a more rustic look.
10. Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream?
- Absolutely!
- Adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, cookie dough pieces, crushed candy bars, or swirls of caramel can elevate your ice cream sandwiches to the next level.
- Just fold the mix-ins into softened ice cream, refreeze it for a bit, and then assemble your sandwiches.
