These classic ice cream sandwiches combine rich chocolate cookies and creamy vanilla ice cream to create the perfect frozen treat. Ideal for hot summer days or as a sweet ending to any meal, they’re nostalgic, simple, and utterly delightful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, softened
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Vanilla ice cream (or preferred flavor)

Directions

Prepare the Cookies:
In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Mixtures:
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, forming a smooth dough.
Chill the Dough:
Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Bake the Cookies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough, cut into circles, and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then let cool completely.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Scoop softened ice cream onto half the cookies, sandwich with remaining cookies, and gently press together.
Freeze:
Freeze assembled sandwiches for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 sandwiches
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Ice Cream Flavors: Use chocolate, strawberry, mint chocolate chip, or any flavor you prefer.
Cookie Additions: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to the cookie dough.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep sandwiches individually wrapped in parchment paper and stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: No reheating needed. Allow sandwiches to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

How do I prevent ice cream sandwiches from melting quickly?

Freeze them thoroughly (at least 2 hours) and keep them wrapped until serving.

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, cookies can be baked and stored at room temperature in an airtight container up to 2 days ahead.

Is it okay to use store-bought cookies?

Absolutely, store-bought cookies can save time and still taste delicious.

Can I make mini ice cream sandwiches?

Yes, simply cut smaller cookies and reduce ice cream amounts accordingly.

Can I use dairy-free ice cream?

Yes, dairy-free or vegan ice creams work well.

What other cookie shapes can I use?

Feel free to use squares, rectangles, or fun shapes with cookie cutters.

Why is my dough too sticky?

Chill dough longer and lightly flour your surface when rolling it out.

How can I get uniform ice cream layers?

Use softened ice cream and a round cookie cutter or biscuit cutter to form even circles.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute gluten-free flour.

Why do my cookies get too hard?

Reduce baking time slightly and ensure cookies cool completely at room temperature.

Conclusion

Classic Ice Cream Sandwiches are an easy, delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or at your next family gathering, they’re sure to become a favorite!