Introduction:
As temperatures rise and summer approaches, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing treat like Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches. These delightful desserts combine the classic flavors of homemade cookies with creamy ice cream, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and chill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, lounging by the pool, or simply craving a cool indulgence, these ice cream sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Follow our simple recipe and impress your friends and family with a homemade twist on a beloved summer classic.
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
For the ice cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions:
Cookie preparation:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture.
- Mix in chocolate chips.
- Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.
- Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges are nicely browned.
- Let cool on wire racks.
Ice cream preparation:
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
- Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
Assembly:
- Place a scoop of ice cream between two cookies.
- Press cookies together to spread the ice cream to the edges.
- Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze until firm, about 1 hour.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Freezing Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Kcal: 500 kcal per sandwich | Servings: 12 sandwiches
Serving Tips:
- Allow the assembled Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, making them easier to bite into.
- For an extra indulgent touch, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut before serving.
- Serve each ice cream sandwich on a small dessert plate or wrap them individually in wax paper or plastic wrap for easy handling at parties or outdoor gatherings.
- Customize your ice cream sandwiches by using different cookie flavors and ice cream combinations to suit your taste preferences and create a variety of delicious treats.
- Accompany each ice cream sandwich with a refreshing beverage such as lemonade, iced tea, or milk to complete the summer dessert experience.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer.
- To prevent freezer burn, place a layer of parchment paper between the sandwiches if stacking them on top of each other.
- Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. Beyond that, the cookies may become too hard and the ice cream may lose its creamy texture.
- If you plan to store the ice cream sandwiches for an extended period, consider placing them in a freezer-safe container to protect them from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors.
- When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of ice cream sandwiches from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
FAQs:
- Can I use store-bought cookies instead of making homemade cookies for the ice cream sandwiches?
- Yes, you can use store-bought cookies if you prefer. However, making homemade cookies allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking, enhancing the overall taste of the ice cream sandwiches.
- Can I make the ice cream sandwiches ahead of time for a party or event?
- Yes, you can assemble the ice cream sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the freezer until ready to serve. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too hard in the freezer?
- To prevent the cookies from becoming overly hard in the freezer, slightly under-bake them so they remain chewy even when frozen. You can also let the assembled ice cream sandwiches sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to allow the cookies to soften slightly.
- Can I use dairy-free or vegan ice cream for the sandwiches?
- Yes, you can use dairy-free or vegan ice cream alternatives for the sandwiches to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. Just be sure to choose a variety that freezes well and has a similar texture to traditional ice cream.
- Can I customize the size and shape of the ice cream sandwiches?
- Absolutely! You can customize the size and shape of the ice cream sandwiches by using different cookie sizes or cutting them into shapes with cookie cutters before assembling. Just keep in mind that larger sandwiches may require more ice cream filling.
Conclusion:
With our Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches, you can bring the joy of summer to any occasion. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, a poolside picnic, or as a sweet treat after dinner, these delightful desserts are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and keep you cool all season long. So grab your favorite ice cream flavors and whip up a batch of these irresistible sandwiches to share with friends and family. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer in style!