Name: Ice Cream Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 quart ice cream (any flavor), slightly softened; 12 to 16 cookies, brownies, or cake-like layers (store-bought or homemade); Optional: mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed nuts, or crushed candy for coating; Parchment or wax paper (for wrapping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ice cream sandwiches are fun, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion—from summer picnics to birthday parties. They can be customized with different flavors of cookies, ice cream, and mix-ins, allowing you to create your own signature version. Plus, they store well in the freezer, so you can always have a sweet treat ready to go.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ice cream (any flavor of your choice, slightly softened)
Cookies, brownies, or cake-like layers (store-bought or homemade)
Optional mix-ins: mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed nuts, or crushed candy
Parchment or wax paper (for wrapping)

Directions

Soften the ice cream slightly by letting it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes.
If using homemade cookies or brownies, make sure they’re completely cooled.
Scoop or spread a generous amount of softened ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie or brownie square.
Top with a second cookie or brownie, pressing gently to sandwich the ice cream evenly.
Roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts, if desired.
Wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment or wax paper and place in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and firm.
Serve straight from the freezer for best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 to 8 ice cream sandwiches, depending on size.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Freeze time: 2 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Cookie combos: Use chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal, or snickerdoodle cookies.
Brownie base: Use thin slices of brownie for a fudgy sandwich.
Cake-style: Make with soft cake layers or whoopie pie rounds.
Flavored ice cream: Try strawberry, cookies and cream, mint chocolate chip, or salted caramel.
Coated edges: Roll in crushed pretzels, cereal, toffee bits, or freeze-dried fruit.

Storage/Reheating

Store ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container or wrapped individually in parchment paper inside a freezer-safe bag.
They keep well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Do not attempt to reheat—serve directly from the freezer. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes at room temperature if too firm to bite.

FAQs

What kind of cookies work best?

Soft-baked or chewy cookies are ideal because they don’t become too hard when frozen. Avoid crispy cookies, which can be difficult to bite into when cold.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, ice cream sandwiches are perfect for making in advance and storing in the freezer until needed.

How do I prevent freezer burn?

Wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment or wax paper, then store in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container.

Can I use dairy-free ice cream?

Absolutely. Use your favorite plant-based ice cream for a dairy-free version.

How do I keep the ice cream from melting while assembling?

Work quickly and freeze sandwiches immediately after assembling. You can also chill your cookies or brownies beforehand.

Can I use store-bought cookies?

Yes, store-bought cookies work well and save time. Choose soft varieties for best results.

How do I get clean edges?

Use a small spatula or butter knife to smooth the ice cream edges after assembling. You can also mold the ice cream with a cookie cutter for uniform size.

Can I add flavor to the cookies?

Yes, add spices like cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough to enhance flavor. You can also mix in nuts or chips for texture.

What’s the best way to serve them at a party?

Serve wrapped or unwrapped on a chilled tray or platter to keep them from melting too quickly. You can even set up an ice cream sandwich bar.

Are they kid-friendly?

Definitely. Kids love building and decorating their own ice cream sandwiches with their favorite mix-ins and flavors.

Conclusion

Ice Cream Sandwiches are a timeless, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With just a few simple ingredients and endless flavor possibilities, you can create a treat that’s perfect for summer days, celebrations, or anytime you need a sweet frozen fix. Make a batch, stash them in the freezer, and enjoy a cool, creamy bite of happiness whenever the craving hits.