Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that combines two beloved desserts: cookies and ice cream. Imagine biting into a crispy, chewy cookie sandwich that gives way to creamy, luscious vanilla ice cream. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday party, or simply a family dessert night. The joy of making these sandwiches lies not only in the delicious outcome but also in the fun of assembling them. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up this classic treat at home.

These ice cream sandwiches have a wonderful balance of textures; the soft yet slightly firm cookies paired with the cold, smooth ice cream create a satisfying blend that is hard to resist. Chocolate chip cookies are a favorite for many, and when paired with ice cream, they transform into a dessert that is beyond comparison. They are easy to share, fun to eat, and can be adjusted to suit your taste perfectly. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious treats!

Ingredients about Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to substitute some ingredients, here are a few ideas:

• You can use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
• White sugar can be used in place of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Instead of mini chocolate chips, you could use regular-sized chips, chunks, or even nuts for added texture.
• Various flavors of ice cream, such as chocolate or coffee, could be used instead of vanilla.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the flour

Start by microwaving the all-purpose flour in a small heatproof bowl. Heat it in 15-second increments, stirring well between each interval. You need the flour to reach a temperature of 160°F. This process should take about 45 seconds to 1 minute. Once it is heated, set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the cookie dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Next, add the cooled flour and whisk everything together until the mixture is fully combined. Finally, stir in the mini semisweet chocolate chips, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Shape the dough

Next, transfer the cookie dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using your hands, press the dough gently into a rectangular shape measuring approximately 16 x 8 inches. Make sure to spread it evenly, as this will help the cookies bake uniformly. Once shaped, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up the dough.

Step 4: Assemble the sandwiches

While the dough is chilling, line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal later. After 15 minutes, take the dough out of the freezer and cut it in half crosswise. Place one half of the dough into the prepared baking pan, trimming it to fit if necessary. Next, scoop the slightly softened vanilla ice cream on top of the dough and spread it evenly into a layer. Finally, place the remaining half of the dough on top of the ice cream layer. Press it down gently to ensure it sticks together, then freeze the entire assembly until solid, for at least 2 hours or up to 2 months.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Best ways to serve Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

When your Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches are ready, remove them from the freezer and use the parchment overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into 16 squares. These squares make for easy, individual servings, so you can serve them right away or keep them frozen for later.

Serving suggestions or pairings

To enhance your dessert experience, consider serving the ice cream sandwiches with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce on top. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, can add a refreshing touch and a lovely contrast to the richness of the ice cream and cookies. You could even serve them with a side of your favorite ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

How to Store Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Proper storage methods

If you have leftover sandwiches or want to prepare them in advance, storing them properly is crucial for keeping them fresh. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, or place them in an airtight container in the freezer.

Tips for reheating or freezing

To serve the sandwiches at a later time, simply return them to the freezer until you’re ready to enjoy them. If they get too hard, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make them easier to bite into. Avoid reheating them in a microwave, as that will soften the ice cream too much and could lead to a messy situation.

Tips to Make Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is not heating the flour to 160°F, which can lead to different textures in your cookies. Be sure to follow the heating step. Also, avoid overmixing the dough once the chocolate chips are added, as that can lead to tough cookies.

Helpful tips for better results

For perfectly even cookie sandwiches, ensure that the ice cream is slightly softened before spreading to avoid breaking the cookies. Additionally, pressing the dough down uniformly helps in achieving even baking. If you want your cookie edges to be extra crisp, bake them a minute or two longer, being careful not to burn them.

Variation of Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Feel free to get creative with your ice cream sandwiches! You can add different mix-ins to your dough, like shredded coconut or chopped nuts. For a fun twist, try using flavored ice creams, such as mint chocolate chip or cookies and cream, for a unique taste.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For gluten-free versions, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Using dairy-free ice cream makes it easy to cater to lactose-free diets, while using vegan butter can address other dietary needs. There are many ways to enjoy this classic dessert while accommodating specific dietary restrictions.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your dough seems too crumbly, try adding a splash of milk to help bind it together. If the cookies aren’t spreading properly during baking, make sure your butter is at the right melting temperature—melted but not hot, as hot butter can yield greasy cookies.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! These ice cream sandwiches can be made in advance and stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just wrap them well to maintain quality and flavor.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

Many of the ingredients in this recipe are easily substitutable. For example, if you don’t have unsalted butter, salted butter can work in a pinch. The type of sugar can be altered as well; brown sugar can be fully swapped for white sugar if needed. Vanilla extract can also be omitted if flavoring is not desired.

In conclusion, Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches are an easy and delicious treat to prepare at home. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, anyone can create this delightful dessert. Whether you choose to stick to the classic cookie and vanilla combo or explore unique variations, these treats are sure to bring joy to your taste buds and smiles to your gatherings. Enjoy the process of making them, and indulge in the delightful layers of flavor and texture they provide.

Print