If there ever was a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day or a perfect cool treat in the summer, it’s these Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches. This Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe brings together the nostalgic joy of cookie dough in a new, irresistible way by wrapping it lovingly around creamy ice cream. Imagine biting into soft, chewy cookie dough with bursts of chocolate chips, only to find luscious ice cream melting gloriously inside—each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re craving a sweet afternoon pick-me-up or a party showstopper, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is easy because it relies on simple, familiar ingredients that work beautifully together. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and that classic cookie dough flavor you adore.
- Butter: Provides rich, creamy texture and depth of flavor when melted and mixed with sugars.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of molasses to enhance that classic cookie dough taste.
- Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with the dough’s structure.
- Whole milk: Gives the dough softness and helps combine the ingredients smoothly.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aromatic notes that take this cookie dough to the next level.
- Salt: Elevates all the sweet flavors, keeping them balanced and bold.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie dough, creating the chewy yet firm texture.
- Mini chocolate chips: Little bursts of chocolaty goodness that complement the dough perfectly.
- Ice cream: The creamy center; softened for easy spreading and an irresistibly cool, smooth contrast to the dough.
How to Make Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Sugars
Begin by melting half a cup of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and everything has blended beautifully. This step is key to building the base flavor and ensuring your cookie dough is delectably rich and luscious.
Step 2: Mix in Milk, Vanilla, Salt, and Flour
Once the sugar and butter mixture is smooth, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt, making sure everything is combined well. Slowly add the all-purpose flour while stirring gently to form a dough. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips. Pop this dough in the fridge for 20 minutes to chill and firm up—this refrigeration is essential for easy handling later on.
Step 3: Form Cookie Dough Layers
Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper edges extend over the sides for easy lifting. Press half of the chilled dough firmly into the bottom of the pan, smoothing the surface evenly for a perfect cookie base. Carefully lift the parchment and dough out of the pan and set it aside. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and another strip of parchment, but leave this second layer in the pan for assembling your sandwich.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread the softened ice cream over the cookie dough layer that’s still in the pan, creating an even, generous layer of creamy goodness. Then, delicately place the other cookie dough layer on top. Press down gently to seal the sandwich together. Cover the entire pan with foil or plastic wrap to protect your dessert while it freezes.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Pop the whole pan into the freezer for 2 to 3 hours or until the ice cream is set and the cookie dough layers become firm. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and creates that perfect texture contrast you want in every bite. Once frozen solid, slice into 12 bars, and your delightful Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches are ready to enjoy straight from the freezer!
How to Serve Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
While these sandwiches are heavenly on their own, adding a garnish can elevate the experience. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish or sprinkle a few chocolate chips or crushed nuts on top before serving to add an extra bit of crunch and texture that complements every bite.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving these Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe at a gathering, consider pairing them with fresh berries or a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce. These sides bring fresh and decadent elements that make the dessert more versatile and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be part of the fun too. Serve these sandwiches on a colorful plate lined with parchment paper or arrange them on a wooden board for a rustic feel. You can even wrap each sandwich individually in wax paper tied with twine for an adorable homemade gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you slice the sandwiches, store any leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Keeping them properly sealed ensures they maintain that fresh-baked taste and creamy texture for up to one week in the freezer.
Freezing
This Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe was made for freezing! Just keep the assembled sandwiches frozen until you’re ready to eat. If you want to freeze the dough layers separately before assembling with ice cream, wrap them well to keep moisture out. Freezing preserves the texture and makes it easy to prepare dessert ahead of time.
Reheating
Because these are best enjoyed cold, reheating is generally not recommended. However, letting them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes makes slicing easier and softens the ice cream just enough for pleasant, not-too-hard bites.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cookie dough for this recipe?
While homemade cookie dough gives you more control over ingredients and flavor, you can absolutely use store-bought dough as a shortcut. Just be sure it’s edible cookie dough safe for eating without baking, and adjust the amount of chips and mix-ins to your preference.
What flavor of ice cream works best?
Vanilla is the classic choice because it complements the cookie dough without overpowering it. However, feel free to experiment with chocolate chip, caramel swirl, or even cookie dough-flavored ice cream for an extra layer of yum.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for a vegan margarine, use plant-based milk and dairy-free ice cream options, and substitute regular chocolate chips with vegan varieties. The texture might be slightly different, but the overall deliciousness remains intact.
How long should I chill the cookie dough before assembling?
About 20 minutes in the refrigerator is enough time to firm up the dough so it’s easier to work with and presses smoothly into the pan. Chilling also helps prevent the dough from sticking to your hands and the parchment paper during assembly.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a handful of toffee bits, can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension. Just fold them in when mixing the chocolate chips before chilling the dough.
Final Thoughts
This Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe is one of those sweet treats you’ll want to make over and over again. It’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible—a perfect way to bring smiles to any occasion or simply treat yourself to something special. I promise, once you try this, it will quickly become a favorite dessert in your home just like it is in mine. So grab those ingredients, get ready to chill, and dig into a little slice of bliss with these amazing homemade ice cream sandwiches!
