Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe

As I opened my freezer, the cool air rushed past me, revealing a treasure trove of homemade ice cream sandwiches, each one a delightful reward on a warm summer day. This Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe combines silky ice cream enveloped by soft, chewy cookies, and takes just over a few hours to prepare—perfect for cooling off and indulging. With each bite, the contrast of the creamy ice cream and the chocolatey cookies creates an irresistible treat.

This recipe is perfect for families looking to make a fun dessert together or anyone wanting to impress their guests with a nostalgic classic. You can prepare the cookies and ice cream in advance; just remember to freeze the ice cream sandwiches for at least 24 hours before serving for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The fluffy cookies create a delightful contrast with the cold ice cream.
• It allows for creativity by using any flavor of ice cream you choose.
• The blend of brown sugar and cocoa powder provides a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
• These sandwiches stay fresh for up to a week, perfect for enjoying leisurely.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients before you begin.

For the Ice Cream

• 1 brick ice cream, any flavor

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder

Use margarine for a dairy-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for dairy-free.
• Try other sugars like white sugar for a different sweetness.
• Swap cocoa powder with carob powder for a unique flavor.
• Use gluten-free flour if needed.

How to Make It

Start by preparing the ice cream and cookie dough.

1. Cut the Ice Cream

Cut the ice cream into 2×5 inch rectangles about 3/4 inch thick.

2. Freeze the Ice Cream

Place each ice cream rectangle between aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 24 hours.

3. Beat the Butter and Sugar

Beat the butter and brown sugar in a bowl until fluffy and well combined.

4. Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth.

5. Mix in Vanilla

Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

6. Combine Dry Ingredients

Add baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and flour, mixing well until a dough forms.

7. Chill the Dough

Place the dough on plastic wrap, wrap it tightly, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

8. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Roll Out the Dough

Roll the ice cream sandwich dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on a lightly floured board.

10. Cut Cookies

Cut the dough into rectangles measuring 2×5 inches each.

11. Prepare for Baking

Place the cookie rectangles on an ungreased baking sheet and prick the surfaces lightly with a fork.

12. Bake Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges look set; the centers will be slightly puffed.

13. Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely.

14. Assemble the Sandwiches

Make ice cream sandwiches by placing one ice cream piece between two cooled cookie pieces.

15. Store

Store the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for up to one week or freeze cookies and ice cream separately for longer storage.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 1 week in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, for up to 1 week.
Reheat: not needed, serve frozen.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the butter is properly softened for easy mixing.
• Roll the dough evenly to ensure even baking.
• Use quality ice cream for a creamier sandwich.
• Allow cookies to cool completely to avoid melting the ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Pair with a scoop of your favorite sorbet for a refreshing treat.
• Enjoy at summer BBQs or picnics for a nostalgic dessert.