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Classic vanilla ice cream tucked between two soft chocolate chip cookies is my go-to treat when cravings strike or summer days get extra warm. There is something about that combination of cold creamy ice cream and chewy cookie that never fails to bring out smiles at any gathering or family celebration.
Once I brought these to a backyard party and watched every age group go back for seconds. The delight on their faces as they picked their own sprinkles made all the effort worthwhile.
Ingredients
- Soft chocolate chip cookies: Using soft cookies ensures every bite stays easy to eat even when frozen. Look for large three inch cookies with a chewy center for best results.
- Vanilla ice cream: Slightly softened so you can scoop and sandwich easily. Choose a rich and creamy ice cream with natural vanilla for best flavor.
- Mini chocolate chips: Perfect for rolling the sides and adding texture. Pick a high quality brand so the chocolate melts in your mouth.
- Rainbow sprinkles: Bright and cheerful, gives a festive touch. Make sure they are fresh for the boldest color.
- Chopped nuts: Adds crunch and a nutty burst. Go for roasted peanuts or pecans with no added salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cool the Cookies:
- If you baked cookies yourself, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents melting when you add ice cream.
- Prep the Freezing Station:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to keep everything tidy and easy to transfer to the freezer.
- Assemble the Bottom Layer:
- Arrange eight cookies flat side up on your prepared baking sheet so you have plenty of workspace.
- Scoop the Ice Cream:
- Working quickly, add a generous scoop of softened vanilla ice cream onto each cookie. Aim for about a quarter to a third of a cup per sandwich.
- Seal the Sandwich:
- Place a second cookie on top flat side down and gently press until the ice cream spreads evenly to the edges.
- Add Toppings:
- With the ice cream still soft, roll the edges of each sandwich in your favorite mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or chopped nuts, gently pressing so they stick.
- Freeze until Firm:
- Arrange finished sandwiches back on the baking sheet and pop into the freezer for at least one hour, letting everything set up firmly.
- Enjoy or Store:
- Serve immediately after freezing or wrap each sandwich in parchment and store in the freezer up to one month.
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My favorite part is letting everyone roll their own ice cream sandwich in toppings. My little ones always create the wildest sprinkle combinations and those silly colorful desserts have become a family tradition at our house.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sandwiches individually wrapped in parchment and then in an airtight freezer bag. This keeps them from freezer burn and makes it easy to grab one at a time.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use store bought gluten free cookies to make this recipe gluten free. Dairy free or vegan ice cream works well if you have dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Place ice cream sandwiches on a platter over ice for parties. Kids love decorating right before eating. I like to pair with cold milk or serve alongside a fruit salad for a complete summer dessert.
Fun Fact
The classic American ice cream sandwich dates back to street vendors in the early 1900s and used a thin slab of ice cream pressed between two wafer cookies. The chocolate chip version is a delicious modern adaptation.
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Common Questions
- → How do I prevent the ice cream from melting while assembling?
Chill your cookies and work quickly. You can also freeze your baking sheet before starting for extra help.
- → Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Absolutely! Chocolate, mint chip, or strawberry make tasty variations. Try matching with the cookie flavors too.
- → What cookies work best for sandwiches?
Soft, chewy cookies like chocolate chip, oatmeal, or double chocolate are ideal. Crisp cookies can be used but may be harder to bite through when frozen.
- → How should I store ice cream sandwiches?
Wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment or plastic wrap and keep frozen. Enjoy within one month for best texture and flavor.
- → Are toppings necessary?
No, but rolling the edges in nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles adds texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
- → Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and freeze sandwiches up to a month in advance to have a ready-made treat on hand.