Chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches are a delightful treat that combines two of the most beloved desserts into one irresistible package. This recipe pairs warm, chewy chocolate chip cookies with creamy vanilla ice cream, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them on a hot summer day or as a special dessert for a party, these ice cream sandwiches are always a crowd-pleaser.

The classic combination of chocolate chip cookies and ice cream has long been a favorite, and making it at home allows you to customize it to your liking. You can use your favorite ice cream flavor, or even make your own cookie dough for a personalized touch. These ice cream sandwiches are as fun to make as they are to eat, making them a perfect treat for kids and adults alike. With the simple process and satisfying results, you’ll find yourself making these often for family gatherings, parties, or just a sweet snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches are a perfect blend of two dessert favorites. The cookies offer a slightly crisp exterior with a chewy interior, while the ice cream provides a cool, creamy contrast. This recipe is versatile and easy to make, meaning you can enjoy these treats year-round. Plus, the combination of rich chocolate chips and smooth vanilla ice cream is hard to beat. Whether you serve them at a summer barbecue or surprise your loved ones with a homemade treat, these ice cream sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Semisweet chocolate chips

For the Ice Cream:

Vanilla ice cream

Variations

Different Ice Cream Flavors: Swap out the vanilla ice cream for other flavors like chocolate, mint chocolate chip, or strawberry for a fun twist.
Add-ins to the Cookies: Mix in nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch or sprinkle in some toffee bits for a rich, caramel flavor.
Use a Different Cookie: Try making the sandwich with oatmeal cookies, peanut butter cookies, or even snickerdoodle cookies for a different taste experience.
Decorate the Sides: Roll the edges of your ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy for a festive touch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or leave them ungreased.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together.

Step 5: Mix in chocolate chips

Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape the cookies

Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of cookie dough onto the ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.

Step 8: Cool the cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Assemble the ice cream sandwiches

Once the cookies are completely cooled, scoop a generous amount of vanilla ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, flat side down, and gently press the two together.

Step 10: Freeze the sandwiches

Wrap each ice cream sandwich in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Freeze until firm, at least 2 hours, before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before assembling the ice cream sandwiches to prevent the ice cream from melting.
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies, which helps ensure your sandwiches are consistent in size.
If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking to make shaping the cookies easier.
If you prefer your ice cream sandwiches to be firmer, freeze them for an extended period (up to overnight).
To prevent the ice cream from spilling out, gently press the cookies together and roll the edges lightly in the ice cream.

How to Serve

Serve the ice cream sandwiches directly from the freezer. They are perfect for a party dessert, a summer barbecue, or a fun family treat. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider cutting each sandwich in half for a bite-sized version that’s easy for guests to enjoy. These sandwiches can also be enjoyed as an indulgent snack or an after-dinner treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

The assembled ice cream sandwiches should be stored in the freezer until firm. They are best enjoyed within a couple of weeks for optimal freshness, but they can be kept frozen for up to a month.

Reheating

These ice cream sandwiches are best enjoyed frozen and do not require reheating. However, if they are too frozen to eat immediately, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought cookies for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought cookies if you’re short on time, but homemade cookies give the best flavor and texture.

2. How long can I store these ice cream sandwiches in the freezer?

These ice cream sandwiches can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

3. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?

Absolutely! You can swap the vanilla ice cream for any flavor you prefer, like chocolate, mint, or coffee.

4. Can I make these ice cream sandwiches smaller?

Yes, you can make mini versions by using a smaller scoop for the cookie dough and ice cream.

5. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze the dough balls, and transfer them to a freezer bag for future use.

6. How do I prevent the ice cream from melting when assembling?

Ensure that the cookies are completely cooled before adding the ice cream, and work quickly to assemble the sandwiches.

7. Can I add toppings to the sides of the ice cream sandwiches?

Yes, you can roll the edges in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed candy for a fun twist.

8. Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days before assembling the sandwiches.

9. Can I make these sandwiches with other cookies?

Absolutely! You can use any cookie you like, such as oatmeal, peanut butter, or snickerdoodles.

10. How can I make these sandwiches more festive?

To make them more festive, add holiday-themed sprinkles, crushed candies, or drizzle melted chocolate over the sandwiches.

Conclusion

Chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches are a delicious, fun, and customizable treat that everyone will love. This recipe combines the chewy texture of homemade cookies with the creamy goodness of ice cream, making for a perfect dessert for any occasion. With endless possibilities for variations and toppings, these ice cream sandwiches are sure to be a favorite treat for family and friends alike. Make them ahead of time for a stress-free dessert, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of a classic combination that never goes out of style.